Ep 2. Week Zero

Tara Webster, a young and ambitious 15-year-old from the country, has successfully secured her spot at the prestigious National Academy of Dance in Sydney, Australia. In the second episode of the first season, titled "Week Zero," the students arrive at the academy a week before the official start of term.

As the new students arrive, tensions run high, and competition is fierce as they all vie for positions in the academy's main dance stream. To complicate matters further, the academy decides to implement a new ranking system, which has everyone on edge. The students are now competing not only for a place in the academy but also for a spot in the best dance stream.

Amidst the chaos, Tara struggles to fit in with her fellow students, who all come from more affluent backgrounds. Her roommate, Kat, a talented dancer, and established socialite, is less than friendly, adding to Tara's frustrations. She also falls foul of the academy's resident mean girl, Abigail, who seems to be making it her mission to make Tara's life difficult.

Tara is initially overwhelmed by the rigorous dance schedule, which is far more intense than what she's used to. She finds herself struggling to keep up with the demanding workload and the high expectations of her teachers.

As the students settle into their new surroundings, the academy's director, Miss Raine, announces that the students must prepare a solo performance to present to the faculty. This adds to Tara's anxiety as she's never done a solo before. She finds herself practicing her dance moves incessantly, even in the shower, determined to prove herself.

Tara also finds herself torn between the two main dance streams at the academy: classical ballet and contemporary dance. She's torn between her love of ballet and her natural talent for contemporary dance and is unable to choose which one to specialize in.

The episode also explores the personal lives of some of the other students. Sammy, a talented hip hop dancer, struggles to keep up with the technical aspects of the academy's curriculum while also dealing with his overbearing father. Meanwhile, Christian, a rebellious contemporary dancer, clashes with his ballet instructors, who are trying to mold him into a more classical dancer.

As the episode draws to a close, the students present their solos to the faculty. Tara's nerves almost get the better of her, but she manages to overcome them and delivers a beautiful contemporary dance piece. However, the rankings are announced, and Tara's excitement is short-lived as she discovers that she's been placed in the second-best dance stream.

Despite this setback, Tara remains undeterred and determined to prove herself. As the first week of term comes to an end, the students prepare for the challenges that are sure to come in the weeks ahead.

Overall, "Week Zero" is a compelling episode that sets the stage for the rest of the season. It introduces the audience to the characters, their backgrounds, and their motivations. The theme of competition is evident throughout, highlighting the intense pressure that comes with attending a prestigious dance academy. The episode sets up many plot points that will be further explored throughout the season, all while keeping the audience engaged and entertained.