The reality TV show Dance Moms is known for its drama, intense dance training, and sometimes, controversial costumes and routines. In one particular episode, the group dance “Electricity” sparked a major debate among the moms, and continues to be a talked-about performance among fans. Let’s dive into the episode and the “Electricity” dance controversy.
The episode opens with the moms’ immediate reactions to the “Electricity” costumes. Their expressions said it all:
Christi’s unfiltered reactions were particularly memorable. She quipped, “So, I guess we’re going for skin to win,” perfectly summarizing the revealing nature of the costumes. Her now-iconic line, “They look like prosti-tots!” truly captured the moms’ discomfort with the outfits’ mature and arguably inappropriate look for young dancers. While Christi acknowledged the girls had worn small costumes before, it was the combination of the style and maturity of the “Electricity” costumes that crossed a line for her. Chloe, however, surprised the moms by expressing her love for the costume and the dance, highlighting the generational difference in perspective. Abby Lee Miller, as expected, dismissed the moms’ concerns, making it clear that their opinions held little weight in her decisions.
Later, Abby focused on Vivi-Anne, awarding her a duet with Mackenzie. This marked a significant moment as it was the first time viewers saw Mackenzie perform a duet. As Mackenzie and Vivi rehearsed, Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, from the rival Candy Apples Dance Center, arrived. Her introduction to the Dance Moms cast was far from smooth. She walked into the viewing room while the moms were busy adding rhinestones to the “Electricity” costumes. Cathy’s immediate question, delivered with a condescending tone, about whether someone would rhinestone her costumes or if she would have to do it herself because she has a personal seamstress, did not sit well with the already stressed moms. The eye-rolls were palpable, and Cathy’s first impression was decidedly negative.
Christi experienced a mini-meltdown later that evening. While the show portrayed it as an overreaction, it seemed to stem from the intense pressure and new environment of the reality show. Prior to filming, the girls and moms likely didn’t spend six hours daily at the studio. The demanding schedule and constant filming were a significant adjustment, and Christi, admittedly not fond of big transitions, was feeling overwhelmed. She was struggling to find a balance and establish a routine amidst the chaos. Ultimately, Christi decided to leave the studio that night, a decision that seemed beneficial for her well-being in that moment. Importantly, she made Chloe stay for practice, understanding the need for preparation for the upcoming competition, a decision Abby would have surely enforced anyway.
Competition day involved a four-hour bus journey from Pittsburgh to Lancaster. Cathy’s motion sickness was apparent, much to Abby’s amusement. Despite Cathy’s discomfort, the bus ride itself seemed like a fun experience for the girls, filled with talking, movies, music, and even fort-building. The atmosphere appeared chaotic yet exciting, especially when they had to get ready on the bus – a testament to the adaptability of the young dancers and moms.
At the competition, Maddie and Chloe were prepared to perform their solos. Chloe’s “Baby Mine” solo was a standout performance. Interestingly, the music used in the actual competition was different from what aired on the show due to copyright issues. The original music was actually “Ma, He’s Making Eyes At Me.” Maddie’s solo was also beautiful, showcasing her undeniable talent, although it might not be considered her most memorable solo. The show attempted to create drama by suggesting Abby favored Maddie after their solos, but in reality, Abby’s feedback appeared balanced, praising both girls. While Maddie won Petite Miss Starquest, the show implied Chloe lost to Maddie. However, it’s important to note that Chloe and Maddie were sometimes in different age categories during competitions that season. Chloe actually won 1st place in the Junior division, though she wasn’t entered in the Junior Miss Starquest category. Therefore, both girls achieved significant wins.
Following the solo awards, Vivi-Anne and Mackenzie performed their duet. Cathy’s comment that Mackenzie wasn’t “heads and shoulders above Vivi” was debatable. While Mackenzie, even at a young age, was advanced, Cathy’s assessment highlighted Vivi’s progress. The duet, surprisingly, did not place in the competition.
Finally, it was time for the “Electricity” group dance. The episode cleverly juxtaposed the “Electricity” costumes with footage of competitors in more age-appropriate attire, emphasizing the stark contrast and the controversial nature of Abby’s choreography and costume choices. During the performance, Chloe seemed to be positioned center stage for a significant portion of the dance, despite Abby initially announcing Maddie as the lead at the pyramid. It’s speculated that either Maddie and Chloe alternated center positions during the dance, or the producers altered the footage from a second taping to give the impression Maddie was the lead. Regardless, the “Electricity” dance did not place, leading Abby to simply attribute it to the judges’ supposed dislike of the girls – a deflection of responsibility.
The episode concluded with the inevitable confrontation, this time between Holly and Christi and Abby. The moms voiced their concerns about the maturity and appropriateness of the “Electricity” dance. Abby, as usual, remained dismissive, claiming to be “verbally abused” – a dramatic exaggeration to deflect from the valid concerns raised by the mothers.
Ultimately, this episode received a 2 out of 5-star rating. The behind-the-scenes manipulations, particularly regarding Chloe’s accomplishments and the misleading portrayal of the competition results, were a major drawback. Hiding a child’s achievements for dramatic effect was a disservice to Chloe and the audience.
Despite the drama and questionable decisions, the preview for the next episode hinted at a fan-favorite group dance, offering something to look forward to amidst the “Electricity” fallout.
What were your thoughts on the “Electricity” dance costumes? Were the moms justified in their concerns about the dance’s maturity? Let us know in the comments below!
On the side, check out a stunning picture of Chloe in her Baby Mine costume and a video of Chloe’s Baby Mine solo, to its original music, Ma, He’s Making Eyes at Me. (Content not owned by website).
