The Best Movies Like 'Step Up'

watchworthy
Updated May 6, 2024 39.9K views 51 items
Ranked By
3.0K votes
651 voters
Voting Rules
Vote for your favorite movies that are similar to the 'Step Up' franchise.

Looking for the best movies like Step Up? From Hollywood classics to new films, this list of movies similar to Step Up feature great dance moves. Honey and Save the Last Dance are great examples of movies that fans of Step Up love. Get ready to boogie down because you’re sure to be entertained by these dance movies. Or, if you’re more in the mood to binge watch, we’ve got you covered with musical dance TV shows like Step Up. But which of these recommendations is the best next-watch for fans of Step Up? 

 

Vote up the best movies and shows like Step Up, so other fans know what to watch next. And thanks to streaming services, like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Prime Video, you can start streaming these movies and shows right now.

Most divisive: Magic Mike
Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies Like 'Step Up'
  • For Fans Of: Drama, Musical, Dance, Coming-of-age, Street Dance
    Why Should I Watch Stomp the Yard: This exhilarating dance film showcases the high-energy world of stepping, a combination of rhythmic stomping and intricate choreography. The story follows DJ, played by Columbus Short, as he navigates love, loss, and acceptance while attending an HBCU. With its pounding beats and impressive dance sequences, this film is sure to have fans of Step Up tapping their feet.

    After his brother's death, a troubled but gifted street dancer enrolls in Atlanta's Truth University. As he tries to concentrate on his studies and woo a pretty classmate, he finds himself in the middle of a tug-of-war between fraternities, who want to utilize his talents in an upcoming dance competition.
  • Honey
    2
    83 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Music, Hip-hop, Dance, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Honey: Featuring Jessica Alba in her breakthrough role as an aspiring dancer and choreographer, this movie offers a feel-good story about overcoming adversity and pursuing dreams amidst challenging circumstances. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City's hip-hop scene, Honey showcases dazzling dance routines that will surely delight fans of energetic performances.

    Honey Daniels (Jessica Alba) dreams of making a name for herself as a hip-hop choreographer. When she's not busy hitting downtown clubs with her friends, she teaches dance classes at a nearby community center in Harlem, N.Y., as a way to keep kids off the streets. Honey thinks she's hit the jackpot when she meets a hotshot director (David Moscow) who casts her in one of his music videos. But, when he starts demanding sexual favors from her, Honey makes a decision that will change her life.
  • For Fans Of: Romance, Drama, Dance, Teen, Music
    Why Should I Watch Save the Last Dance: A touching tale of love, loss, and self-discovery set to a pulsating hip-hop soundtrack that will resonate with fans of Step Up. Julia Stiles stars as a ballet dancer who learns to embrace her newfound passion for urban dance under the guidance of Sean Patrick Thomas's character. The film skillfully intertwines its poignant narrative with breathtaking dance sequences that highlight both classical ballet and gritty street styles.

    Save the Last Dance is a captivating blend of romance and drama. The film introduces Sara Johnson (Julia Stiles), an aspiring ballet dancer, who moves to Chicago's South Side after her mother's untimely death. There, she crosses paths with Derek Reynolds (Sean Patrick Thomas), a passionate hip-hop enthusiast. As their lives intertwine, they share dance steps - ballet meets hip-hop - and life lessons alike. Directed by Thomas Carter, this movie won the MTV Movie Award for Best Kiss, and was nominated for several others including Best Female Performance for Stiles. A tale of love, ambition and cultural exchange set against the backdrop of vibrant urban rhythms.
  • Body Language
    4

    Body Language

    13 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Music, Romance, Dutch Cinema
    Why Should I Watch Body Language: Delving into the underground world of street dance battles in Amsterdam, this Dutch film follows skilled dancers on their journey towards glory while navigating personal relationships along the way. With its international flair and electrifying dance sequences, Body Language offers a fresh perspective on the genre that fans of Step Up will appreciate.

    Body Language is an 2011 Dutch romance-dance film. Filming started in January 2011 and completed in July 2011. Set in New York, the movie follows five different dancers from different dance crews who came on their own to New York for a dance competition, while their subsidy has been withdrawn, and these die-hard dancers come on their own to fulfill their dreams while juggling with no money and each other's different personalities.
  • Dirty Dancing
    5

    For Fans Of: Dance, Romance, Drama, Music, Coming-of-age
    Why Should I Watch Dirty Dancing: A timeless classic that has captured the hearts of generations, this film stars Jennifer Grey as Baby Houseman, who unexpectedly discovers a love for dance and romance during her summer vacation at a sleepy resort in the Catskills. Featuring iconic moves and an unforgettable soundtrack, Dirty Dancing is a must-watch for anyone seeking to indulge in nostalgia or discover what made it such an enduring phenomenon.

    In the heart of summer 1963, Frances 'Baby' Houseman (Jennifer Grey) vacations with her affluent family at a high-end Catskills resort. She's an innocent daddy's girl until she stumbles upon the resort's dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). A tough-talking guy from the wrong side of the tracks, Johnny introduces Baby to an intoxicating world of dirty dancing and steamy after-hours parties. As they dance, they fall in love - a passionate affair that defies class boundaries and family expectations. Dirty Dancing, a music-filled drama that won the 1987 Oscar for Best Original Song, is a timeless tale about love, growth, and the power of dance.
  • For Fans Of: Drama, Romance, LGBTQ+, Dance, Swedish Cinema
    Why Should I Watch And Then We Danced: This powerful Georgian film introduces audiences to the world of traditional Georgian dance while tackling themes of gender norms, sexuality, and identity through its compelling narrative. Following two male dancers who fall in love despite societal expectations against them, And Then We Danced showcases breathtaking choreography enriched by cultural significance – making it an essential watch for those interested in the broader scope of dance cinema.

    And Then We Danced is a 2020 Swedish-Georgian drama film directed by Levan Akin. Merab (Levan Gelbakhiani) has been training at the National Georgian Ensemble with his partner Mary (Ana Javakhishvili). However, when Irakli (Bachi Valishvili) arrives, he becomes both his rival and strongest desire.
  • The Fits
    7
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Coming-of-age, Indie
    Why Should I Watch The Fits: This indie gem takes an unconventional approach to the dance genre by exploring themes of adolescence and self-discovery through hypnotic visuals and dream-like storytelling. The story follows young Toni as she joins an all-girls' dance team experiencing mysterious seizures known as "the fits," ultimately delving into ideas about conformity and personal growth within group dynamics.

    An 11-year-old tomboy (Royalty Hightower) tries to fit in with her peers after joining an all-girl dance team.
  • How She Move
    8
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Dance, Drama, Music, Coming-of-age, Canadian Cinema
    Why Should I Watch How She Move: This high-spirited Canadian film tells the story of Raya Green (Rutina Wesley) as she returns to her working-class roots after leaving her prestigious private school due to financial struggles. As Raya pursues her passion for step dancing to overcome obstacles and achieve her dreams, How She Move showcases intense choreography and a powerful message of perseverance.

    Raya (Rutina Wesley), a gifted student and dancer at an elite academy, must return home and attend public school after her sister's drug-related death. She has a bitter rivalry with Michelle (Tré Armstrong),in which the two try to see which is the better dancer. Raya convinces Bishop to let her join his all-male dance troupe as they prepare for an upcoming competition.
  • For Fans Of: Documentary, Dance, Family, Coming-of-age, Education
    Why Should I Watch Mad Hot Ballroom: This charming documentary takes viewers inside the competitive world of ballroom dancing for children in New York City public schools. Through inspiring stories and captivating performances from its young subjects, Mad Hot Ballroom shares valuable lessons about discipline, teamwork, and fostering artistic talents at an early age – making it a must-watch for fans craving more than just flashy moves.

    Documentary filmmaker Marilyn Agrelo chronicles the lives of several New York City schoolchildren as they get ready for a dancing competition sponsored by the nonprofit group American Ballroom Theater. As the finals of the competition near, the students -- ranging in age from 10 to 11 and coming from both poor and affluent neighborhoods -- make their transformation from reticent novices to confident contestants versed in the Latin styles of foxtrot, merengue and rumba.
  • For Fans Of: Dance, Music, Comedy, Sequel, 80s Cinema, Hip-hop
    Why Should I Watch Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo: As the sequel to the influential Breakin', this film continues to celebrate the dynamic energy of breakdancing and hip-hop culture in the '80s, while introducing fresh beats, dance moves, and vibrant fashion. With its entertaining storyline about a group of dancers trying to save their community center from demolition, this sequel offers fans a delightful trip down memory lane.

    Disappointed with her small part in the chorus line of a Los Angeles show, jazz dancer Kelly (Lucinda Dickey) quits and heads home. Her father (John Christy Ewing) disapproves of Kelly's friendship with street dancers Ozone (Adolfo "Shabba-Doo" Quinones) and Turbo (Michael "Boogaloo Shrimp" Chambers), and encourages her to pursue an opportunity to perform in Paris. Ignoring his wishes, Kelly teams up with her friends for a break-dancing benefit show to save an endangered community center.
  • Bring It On
    11
    69 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Sports, Dance, Teen, Cheerleading
    Why Should I Watch Bring It On: This cult-favorite cheerleading film showcases spectacular acrobatics and fierce competition as Kirsten Dunst leads her team in pursuit of a national championship while addressing issues of cultural appropriation. Combining humor with dazzling routines, Bring It On is perfect for fans of Step Up looking for another energetic and empowering story rooted in teamwork.

    Bring It On, a comedy-drama, is driven by the fiery spirit of high school cheerleading. Torrance Shipman (Kirsten Dunst), captain of the cheerleading squad at Rancho Carne High School, discovers her team's routines were stolen from the East Compton Clovers, led by Isis (Gabrielle Union). The ensuing rivalry between the squads forms the crux of the narrative. Directed with verve by Peyton Reed, this film explores themes of integrity, competition, and friendship. Notably, Bring It On bagged nominations for multiple Teen Choice Awards, underscoring its appeal to young audiences.
  • Footloose
    12
    49 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Music, Coming-of-age, 80s Cinema
    Why Should I Watch Footloose: A classic tale of teenage rebellion set against a dance-driven backdrop, Footloose stars Kevin Bacon as Ren McCormack, who challenges his small town's strict ban on dancing by organizing a high-energy prom. Featuring an unforgettable soundtrack and iconic choreography, this movie is an essential watch for anyone seeking a spirited exploration of self-expression through dance.

    In the heart-thumping movie Footloose, city teen Ren McCormack, portrayed by Kevin Bacon, finds himself in a tight spot in a small Midwestern town where dancing and rock music have been banned. Reverend Shaw Moore (John Lithgow), the town's spiritual guide and law enforcer, stands as his primary obstacle. Threading the needle of rebellion, Ren challenges the ban to revitalize the spirit of the youth, notably Ariel Moore (Lori Singer), the Reverend's rebellious daughter. This musical drama, peppered with foot-tapping numbers and teenage angst, is a rhythmic dance of defiance against unjust norms.
  • For Fans Of: Romance, Drama, Dance, Teen, Latin Music
    Why Should I Watch Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights: As a reimagining of the original 1987 hit, this movie transports viewers to pre-revolutionary Cuba, where an American teenager discovers her love for Latin dancing amidst political turmoil. Combining passion and dazzling dance routines with an alluring setting, Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights offers fans a fresh take on the classic romantic story.

    American high-school student Katey (Romola Garai) moves with her wealthy parents (Sela Ward, John Slattery) to Cuba in 1958. She encounters Javier (Diego Luna), a poor local who works as a waiter, and soon a relationship blossoms between them. At a nightclub, Javier teaches Katey the nuances of Cuban dance, which becomes her passion. As the young lovers grow closer, Fidel Castro suddenly rises to power. When her parents decide to flee to the United States, Katey must make a difficult choice.
  • Center Stage
    14
    42 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Romance, Music, Teen
    Why Should I Watch Center Stage: This compelling drama takes viewers behind the curtain of New York City's prestigious American Ballet Academy as young dancers struggle with personal issues while striving for perfection on stage. Featuring powerful performances from real-life ballet professionals, Center Stage provides insight into the dedication required to pursue artistic dreams and is sure to please fans who appreciate both classical ballet and gripping storytelling.

    A dozen adolescents have begun their training at the renowned American Ballet Academy, where they encounter tremendous physical and mental stress while vying for a coveted spot in a celebrated dance company. Jody Sawyer (Amanda Schull) has talent but the wrong proportions, the fiery Eva Rodriguez (Zoe Saldana) can't seem to get along with her instructors and Maureen (Susan May Pratt) is having a hard time enduring the emotional highs and lows that accompany ballet school.
  • You Got Served
    15

    For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Music, Teen, Hip-hop
    Why Should I Watch You Got Served: A tale of friendship, competition, and betrayal set in the world of underground street dance in Los Angeles, this film showcases electrifying dance battles that demonstrate the athleticism and creativity required to excel in the genre. With its intense soundtrack and breathtaking choreography, You Got Served is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys high-stakes dance competitions.

    David (Omarion Grandberry) and Elgin (Marques Houston) helm a talented street-dancing crew that engages in dance battles in a Los Angeles warehouse belonging to local club owner Mr. Rad (Steve Harvey). When Orange County rich kid Wade (Christopher Jones) challenges David and Elgin to compete against his dancers for $5,000, they accept. As David and Elgin labor to perfect their moves for the competition, tensions within the crew threaten their chances at success.
  • Coyote Ugly
    16
    50 votes

    For Fans Of: Romance, Comedy, Dance, Drama, Music
    Why Should I Watch Coyote Ugly: This feel-good film stars Piper Perabo as an aspiring songwriter pursuing her dreams in New York City while working at the rambunctious yet iconic bar named Coyote Ugly. With its catchy soundtrack and spirited dance sequences set atop bartops, this movie offers a lighthearted take on chasing passions that fans of dance films will appreciate.

    Graced with a velvet voice, 21-year-old Violet Sanford heads to New York to pursue her dream of becoming a songwriter only to find her aspirations sidelined by the accolades and notoriety she receives at her "day" job as a barmaid at Coyote Ugly. The "Coyotes" as they are affectionately called tantalize customers and the media alike with their outrageous antics, making Coyote Ugly the watering hole for guys on the prowl.
  • For Fans Of: Romance, Comedy, Dance, Australian Cinema, Competitive Gaming
    Why Should I Watch Strictly Ballroom: Director Baz Luhrmann's debut film blends drama, romance, and humor as it tells the story of an Australian ballroom dancer who defies convention to create his unique dance style. With its passionate choreography and colorful visuals, Strictly Ballroom is a must-watch for those who want to explore a different side of the competitive dance world.

    A top ballroom dancer pairs with a plain, left-footed local girl when his maverick style earns him the disdain of his more conventionally-minded colleagues. Together, the team gives it their all and makes dreams of the National Championship title come true.
  • Shag
    18
    12 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Dance, Coming-of-age, 80s Cinema
    Why Should I Watch Shag: Set in 1963 South Carolina, this coming-of-age film celebrates friendship and nostalgia as four young women embark on a summer vacation filled with beach parties and lively shag dancing competitions. With its infectious music, vibrant fashion, and energetic dance scenes, Shag offers viewers a charming glimpse into an era gone by.

    Before adulthood takes hold, four teenage girls spirit away to Myrtle Beach, S.C., for a final vacation together. And all of them have their issues: Carson (Phoebe Cates) is marrying a boy who might not be right for her, Melaina (Bridget Fonda) obsesses over her Hollywood dreams, Pudge (Annabeth Gish) has self-esteem problems and Luanne (Page Hannah) has a hard time letting loose. But as the trip continues, the four grow closer together and help each other start to figure things out.
  • Feel the Beat
    19

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Dance, Family, Music, Coming-of-age
    Why Should I Watch Feel The Beat: In this heartwarming Netflix Original film, Sofia Carson stars as a disgraced Broadway dancer who returns to her small hometown and finds redemption by coaching a misfit group of young dancers. With its touching narrative and uplifting message about second chances, Feel The Beat will resonate with fans seeking more than just flashy dance moves.

    After failing to find success on Broadway, April returns to her hometown and is recruited to train a misfit group of young dancers.
  • Step Sisters
    20
    18 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Dance, College, Drama, Female Protagonist
    Why Should I Watch Step Sisters: Blending humor with high-energy performances, this Netflix Original explores themes of sisterhood and cultural appropriation as a college student forms an unlikely alliance between her sorority sisters and a rival step team to win a competition. With its diverse cast and compelling storyline, Step Sisters adds depth to the familiar dance movie template while still delivering thrilling routines that will keep viewers entertained.

    Step Sisters is a 2018 dance comedy film directed by Charles Stone III. After her school's reputation is tarnished by a band of hard-partying white sorority girls, a black sorority president (Megalyn Echikunwoke) is tasked with not only teaching these girls how to step dance, but also helping them to win a competitive dance competition.
  • StreetDance 3D
    21

    For Fans Of: Dance, Drama, Romance, Music, British Cinema
    Why Should I Watch StreetDance 3D: As one of Europe's most successful dance films, StreetDance 3D combines high-energy street dancing with the elegance of ballet, resulting in a visually stunning and captivating story. When two disparate dance crews must overcome their differences to win a competition, fans of Step Up will enjoy watching how these contrasting styles creatively merge.

    A dance crew is forced to work with ballet dancers in exchange for rehearsal space so they can prepare for a street dance championship.
  • Footloose
    22
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Romance, Coming-of-age, Music
    Why Should I Watch Footloose: Directed by Craig Brewer, this 2011 remake breathes new life into the beloved '80s classic while preserving its core themes of self-expression and rebellion against oppressive norms. With updated music and fresh talent like Kenny Wormald taking on Kevin Bacon's legendary role, the modernized Footloose offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the original film.

    As a transplant from Boston, teenager Ren MacCormack (Kenny Wormald) gets a big dose of culture shock when he moves to a small Southern town called Bomont. A few years prior, a fatal accident involving five youths led local councilmen and a beloved clergyman (Dennis Quaid) to enact ordinances against loud music and dancing. Ren -- never one to toe the line -- challenges the ban, simultaneously revitalizing Bomont and falling in love with the clergyman's troubled daughter (Julianne Hough).
  • Freak Dance
    23

    Freak Dance

    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Musical, Dance, Indie, Parody
    Why Should I Watch Freak Dance: This comedic spoof of dance movies like Step Up is filled with over-the-top dance battles and exaggerated characters that poke fun at popular clichés in the genre. With its tongue-in-cheek humor and outrageous choreography, Freak Dance provides a light-hearted break from more serious dance films while still delivering jaw-dropping moves.

    Freak Dance is a 2010 musical-comedy film directed by Matt Besser and Neil Mahoney. A spoiled rich girl who wants to be a dancer finds herself caught into between two rival dance groups set to do battle at an underground competition.
  • Body Moves
    24

    Body Moves

    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Dance, Drama, Music, Coming-of-age
    Why Should I Watch Body Moves: A documentary showcasing some of the most extraordinary dancers in New York City's diverse dance community, Body Moves takes viewers on an intimate journey into the lives and passions of these remarkable artists. Delving deep into various styles such as hip-hop, contemporary ballet, and tap, this film is perfect for those who appreciate both dazzling performances and insight into the dedication required to excel in the world of dance.

    Body Moves is a 1990 American musical drama film directed by Gerry Lively. The battle between two dance groups is called the "Hot Steps Contest", a competition to be held at the Neptune disco.
  • Fish Tank
    25
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Coming-of-age, Dance, British Cinema, Independent Film
    Why Should I Watch Fish Tank: Set in a rough British housing estate, this gritty drama tells the story of Mia (Katie Jarvis), a troubled teen who finds solace in hip-hop dancing amidst her chaotic home life. Eschewing flashy choreography for raw emotion and heartfelt storytelling, Fish Tank offers a look at how dance can be a lifeline when facing adversity.

    Mia (Katie Jarvis) is a rebellious teenager on the verge of being kicked out of school. Her hard-partying mother, Joanne (Kierston Wareing), neglects Mia's welfare in favor of her own, and her younger sister (Rebecca Griffiths) hangs out with a much older crowd. Sparks fly between Mia and Connor (Michael Fassbender), Joanne's new boyfriend, and he encourages Mia to pursue her interest in dance. As the boundaries of the relationships become blurred, Mia and Joanne compete for Connor's affection.
  • Cuban Fury
    26
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Dance, Romance, Sports, British Cinema
    Why Should I Watch Cuban Fury: This charming romantic comedy follows Nick Frost as he reignites his passion for salsa dancing to win over his beautiful new boss, played by Rashida Jones. Bursting with infectious music and captivating Latin rhythms, Cuban Fury will delight fans looking for a feel-good story infused with vibrant dance sequences.

    A former salsa prodigy (Nick Frost) must whip himself back into shape 22 years after a bullying incident ruined his chance at dance stardom.
  • Shall We Dance?
    27

    For Fans Of: Romance, Comedy, Dance, Remake, Japanese Cinema
    Why Should I Watch Shall We Dance?: The 1996 Japanese original version tells the tale of Shohei Sugiyama (Kôji Yakusho), a middle-aged salaryman who discovers passion and excitement in ballroom dancing after enrolling in lessons on impulse. Offering insight into Japanese societal norms alongside elegant dance sequences, this acclaimed film showcases how personal growth can be found through artistic expression.

    Shall We Dance? is a 1996 Japanese film. Its title refers to the song, "Shall We Dance?" which comes from Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I. It was directed by Masayuki Suo.
  • For Fans Of: Drama, Dance, Sports, Hip-hop, Musical
    Why Should I Watch Battle of the Year: The Dream Team: Starring Chris Brown and Josh Holloway, this film follows an American b-boy crew as they train to compete in the prestigious International Battle of the Year Championship held in France. Packed with jaw-dropping dance sequences that push physical boundaries, this movie will delight fans eager to witness some world-class street dancing talent.

    Battle of the Year is a 2013 American 3D dance film directed by Benson Lee. The film was released on September 20, 2013 through Screen Gems and stars Josh Holloway, Chris Brown, Laz Alonso, Caity Lotz, and Josh Peck. Battle of the Year is based upon Lee's award winning 2008 documentary Planet B-Boy, about the b-boying competition of the same name. The feature film includes cinematography by Vasco Nunes, Lee's director of photography on the original documentary. Variety magazine listed Battle of the Year as one of "Hollywood's biggest box office bombs of 2013" earning just $16.5 million against a $20 million production budget.
  • Honey 2
    29
    58 votes

    For Fans Of: Dance, Drama, Music, Sequel, Coming-of-age
    Why Should I Watch Honey 2: This sequel follows Maria Ramirez (Katerina Graham) as she is released from juvenile detention and uses her love for street dancing as a means to overcome her troubled past. Showcasing exhilarating choreography against the backdrop of New York City's urban landscape, Honey 2 delivers an inspiring story that will leave viewers cheering for more.

    Honey 2 is a comedy, drama and music film written by Blayne Weaver, Alyson Fouse and directed by Bille Woodruff. Motion Picture Rating (MPAA) Rated it PG-13 for some sexual content and language. It stars Katerina Graham, Randy Wayne, Melissa Molinaro[2], Lonette McKee (reprising her role from Honey) and Audrina Patridge. The film was released to cinemas in Britain on June 10, 2011 and direct to DVD in North America.
  • Take the Lead
    30

    For Fans Of: Dance, Drama, Music, Education, Based on true story
    Why Should I Watch Take The Lead: Inspired by the true story of Pierre Dulaine (played by Antonio Banderas), this uplifting film recounts how a ballroom dancer transforms the lives of inner-city youth through teaching them the art of dance. Combining high-energy hip-hop moves with traditional ballroom techniques, Take The Lead illustrates the power of dance as a tool for personal growth and self-expression.

    When internationally renowned dancer Pierre Dulaine (Antonio Banderas) takes a teaching job in a New York City public school, he meets ridicule from the street-wise students, who scoff at the notion of ballroom dancing. Far from being discouraged, he melds their hip-hop moves with his classical style, helping them create a dance form and, in the process, becoming their mentor.