Watch The Berlin Dance School

The Berlin Dance School is a captivating historical drama series set in 1950s Berlin. This PBS Masterpiece production tells the story of a young woman's dream to become a ballet dancer and the challenges she faces in a divided city under Soviet control. Claudia Michelsen takes on the role of Helga, the owner of a ballet school struggling to keep her business afloat after the end of World War II. She is fiercely determined to preserve the tradition of classical ballet, despite the new wave of modernist influences sweeping across the country. Emilia Schule plays Monika, a former ballerina who returns to Berlin after studying in the West. Her arrival at Helga's dance school raises eyebrows and sparks jealousy among the other students.

The Berlin Dance School is an engaging drama that delves into the personal lives of the characters as they navigate the complexities of the city's politics and social dynamics. Helga is a sympathetic figure who must confront personal and professional challenges, such as her struggle with alcoholism and her complicated relationship with her husband. Monika is equally compelling as a talented dancer who must reconcile her passion for ballet with her fear of being ostracized for her Western education. The tension between the two women and their contrasting approaches to dance sets the stage for a heartfelt exploration of art, politics, and identity.

The show's attention to historical accuracy is impressive, with meticulous attention to costumes and sets that recreate the period's aesthetic. There are also poignant reminders of the city's troubled past, such as the presence of Soviet tanks and the Berlin Wall in the background of some scenes. This provides a rich backdrop for the characters' struggles and adds a layer of depth to the series.

One of the main highlights of The Berlin Dance School is the dance sequences themselves. The series features a talented cast of dancers who bring the ballet scenes to life with impressive technique and poise. The choreography is beautiful to watch, and it is clear that the production team paid close attention to creating a seamless blend of story and dance.

Aside from its dazzling dance sequences, The Berlin Dance School is a multi-layered drama that touches on various themes such as love, betrayal, ambition, and perseverance. The show's characters are vividly drawn, and the acting is uniformly excellent. The storylines are engaging and provide intriguing insights into life in post-war Germany. The series also succeeds in capturing the essence of ballet as an art form, demonstrating the unique blend of athleticism, grace, and emotion that it requires.

Overall, The Berlin Dance School is an absorbing drama that is sure to appeal to fans of historical fiction and dance enthusiasts alike. With its strong performances, stunning dance sequences, and powerful storytelling, it is an impressive addition to PBS Masterpiece's roster of acclaimed series.

The Berlin Dance School is a series that ran for 3 seasons (10 episodes) between June 26, 2020 and on PBS Masterpiece