Packaged in Black And White. Mad Hot Ballroom is an inspiring
documentary suitable for middle years about ‘Dancing Classrooms’, a ballroom
dancing program in New York City public schools. The documentary profiles fifth
grade students from three schools, tracing their journey into the world of
ballroom dancing as they prepare for a citywide competition.Told from
the candid perspectives of the students and their teachers, principals and
American Ballroom Theater teaching artists, Mad Hot Ballroom provides a
unique insight into the cultural diversity of New York City. The documentary
highlights the importance of giving children opportunities to encounter the
unfamiliar and triumph.The study guide provides a close analysis of the
socio economic groups that the children come from, the issues facing eleven and
twelve year olds in all cultures as boys and girls learn to communicate with
each other and develop friendships.
Curriculum Links:
The documentary
and study guide are relevant to upper primary and lower secondary:
•
English
• SOSE / HSIE
• Dance
• Media Studies