■The program will answer the ultimate question, “Which is better, singing or dancing?”
For the first time in a variety show, TV Asahi has decided to team up with an American-based partner in a “co-production” to produce the unprecedented and innovative entertainment battle show “SONG vs. DANCE”.
The partnership is between Emmy Award-winning producers Craig Prestis and Clara Prestis, and their production company Smart Dog Media.
Craig, who made a name for himself as the executive producer of the popular game show “Minute to Win It” (NBC), also produced the American version of the Korean music variety show “The Masked Singer” (FOX), and was the driving force behind its success in making it a worldwide hit. He continues to demonstrate his skills, making the American version (FOX) of “I Can See Your Voice”, also from South Korea, a hit.
Craig and Clara will serve as executive producers this time, along with TV Asahi producer Takaaki Kitano, who has directed and produced popular variety shows such as “Failure Sensei: Don’t Be Like Me!!” and “Cream Nantara.” The “fresh and dynamic format” created by Japanese and American hit makers with all their heart will amaze all of Japan.
■The next international hit variety show is born!? This is truly a new standard! “Singing” and “dancing”—performers from different genres compete to reach the top
“SONG vs DANCE” is a truly groundbreaking entertainment battle. By fusing the two major artistic performances of “singing” and “dancing,” we will infuse a “new standard style” into the contest program.
The program brings together outstanding performers in their respective fields of singing and dancing to engage in “thrilling one-on-one battles” in a “video game-inspired format.” The final winner will be determined by transcending the boundaries of genre, and the ultimate question will be answered: “Which is better, singing or dancing?”
“SONG vs DANCE” is sure to captivate viewers with its dynamic art form, energetic battles, and overwhelming performances. It is sure to become the next international hit variety show.
Smart Dog Media and TV Asahi will also hold an overview session for “SONG vs DANCE” at the international content market MIP LONDON, which will be held in London, England in February.
Further details, such as the broadcast schedule and performers, will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more news.
■Craig Prestis & Clara Prestis (Smart Dog Media) Comments
We are thrilled to be partnering with TV Asahi on this groundbreaking and unique series. The show is the first variety show to pit two of the most popular forms of entertainment against each other in an epic battle. Just like we created The Masked Singer, we created a show that was bold and unprecedented. The program format boldly incorporates Japanese pop culture, video game aesthetics, and game structure, bringing a unique style and feel to the performance competition program. We believe that this series will be loved internationally and across generations.■Comment from Takaaki Kitano (TV Asahi/Director/Producer)
Since June of last year, I have been collaborating with Craig over and over again on various projects, and we were able to arrive at an innovative format that had never been seen before, called “SONG vs DANCE.” The proposal from the Smart Dog Media team, led by Craig and Clara, is fresh and innovative, and we are thrilled to be working with them on this new format. “SONG vs DANCE” is a musical martial arts battle in which singers and dancers fight for their pride. The only criteria for judging is “Which performance resonated with your heart more?” We believe this simple yet completely new format will result in innovative music programming that audiences of all generations will enjoy. Please look forward to the heated battle between Japan’s proud performers who are active all over the world.
“SONG vs DANCE” program official X (old Twitter)
https://x.com/SONGvsDANCE
Craig Prestis & Clara Prestis (Smart Dog Media)
Takaaki Kitano (TV Asahi/Director/Producer)
