America's Ballroom Challenge

(Rochester, NY) – Ballroom is back! America's Ballroom Challenge returns on Friday, April 24, 2015 at 9:00 pm on WXXI-TV. Hosted by former U.S dance champions Mary Murphy and Tony Meredith, the series features three one-hour episodes of super-heated competition and gravitydefying exhibitions, shot at the world’s largest ballroom dancing competition in Columbus, Ohio.

Broadcast in stunning high-definition, America's Ballroom Challenge once again takes viewers onto the dance floor and behind the scenes as 25 world-class couples compete for the ultimate dance title: “America’s Best.” From the producer who first brought the magic of competitive ballroom dancing to public television, this series features all four major styles of competitive ballroom dancing, each with its own personality: American Smooth, American Rhythm, International Standard and International Latin. America's Ballroom Challenge is the only American television dance series to feature world-class dancers in a real competition with accredited judges. The finalists in each style compete first as a group, with six or seven couples on the floor at once, performing the required dances in their category. Each couple then takes to the floor by themselves to perform a “Showdance” solo. After a winning couple is crowned in each of the four styles, the four champions compete across dance styles in a “Best of Show” Grand Finale to determine a single winner.

Providing commentary throughout are Mary Murphy, a former U.S. nine-dance champion best known as a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance,” and Tony Meredith, a former U.S. Latin Dance Champion and longtime choreographer and judge.

In addition to the sizzling competition, the new season of America's Ballroom Challenge gives viewers a backstage pass into the world of ballroom — from the making of big hairstyles to the mystery man who selects the music for the competition. Also featured are exhibitions by top couples in a range of styles — from precocious children to Pro-Am champions and cabaret dancers.

Pictured: Mary Murphy & Tony Meredith Host & Co-host
Credit: Courtesy of Jeffrey Dunn. Copyright: Moreno/Lyons