TSR Exclusive: Amid calls to cancel Netflix over the streaming giant’s decision to stream the controversial French film “Cuties,” people have been drawing comparisons to the film’s content to that of the popular American Lifetime shows “Bring It” and “Dance Moms.”
“Cuties,” is about an 11-year-old Senegalese girl living in Paris who joins a twerk team (called “the Cuties”) to rebel against what she perceives as her Muslim’s family’s oppressive traditions, according to Variety. People have been deeply disturbed by the imagery of the film and the images that were used to promote it.
During this social conversation about coming-of-age issues highlighted in the film, people have said the dancing in Cuties is not much different than that of the dancing in “Bring It.” Well the show’s star and dance team coach, Dianna Williams, tells us exclusively she’s not surprised by the comparison but she makes it clear that the foundation of the dancing her girls do is NOT twerking, but more so deeply rooted in cultural and HBCU traditions and that all shows and competitions are designed to be family-friendly.
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“Bring It and the Dancing Dolls organization are formatted to be a celebration of the rich tradition of HBCU majorette dance lines,” Dianna tells us. “Our work is a contribution to what has long been a cultural phenomenon, while creating a positive outlet for our girls.”
Dianna also explains that her girls are multi-skilled dancers trained in jazz, ballet, gymnastics, and hip hop.
“While I have much respect for all genres of dance, I choose to focus on a style that highlights the fusion of acrobats, ballet, hip hop, jazz and majorette that has become synonymous to the DD4L Brand-respectfully,” she said.
Dianna adds that every show, competition, and tour are designed to be family-friendly and parent-approved as well as uplifting images of their dancers.
“We stand firm on that and will not compromise on that,” Dianna said. “Furthermore, as dance coaches and leaders, it is our job to protect our children and ensure they are seen in a positive light. That is what my organization will continue to do as we celebrate 20 years in our community.”
She ended her conversation with us saying her heart goes out to the young girls from the Netflix film who are now at the center of growing attention and debates.
“I pray that their spirits stay lifted and that they remain encouraged,” Dianna said.
