Dancin' On Air

'Dancin' On Air was a 1980s television dance music reality show, forerunner of the TV show Dance Party USA. Both shows were produced and created by Michael Nise and his father Frank. The show started with US$100,000 from a small group of investors that included Tonight Show band leader Doc Severinsen. The program earned a 128% return on investment (ROI) within the first six months. Dancin' On Air was produced from Nise's studios and offices located in Camden, New Jersey.

History

Dancin' On Air broadcast live from October 12, 1981 to December 31, 1987. The program reached seven east coast states. Normally broadcast from the WPHL-TV studios in Philadelphia, the program was often broadcast on-location, including from Penn's Landing, Ocean City, Wildwood, Six Flags Great Adventure, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, and Hershey Park.

In 1986, Dancin' On Air was syndicated by KDOC in Los Angeles. The show doubled KDOC's ratings in its first week, and was then picked up by the fledgling USA Network. Shortly thereafter, the show was renamed Dance Party USA, thoug both shows were produced for a time.

During 1986 and 1987, the Dancin' On Air studio set was that same studio used for Dance Party USA. As a result during the 1986/87 season, audiences saw the same regulars, guest dancers, and celebrities on both shows on the same days. The programs shared a weekly talk-radio show, Talkin' On Air, hosted by Michael Nise.

Hosts of the show included Eddie Bruce, Bill O'Brien, Chris Trane, Andy Gury and Mike Rossi. Mike Rossi was a former dancer who transitioned to being a host and in 1986 became one of the youngest hosts of a live daily television program in American TV history.

The show also featured Kelly Ripa, Madonna, Will Smith, Tom Verica, Dave Raymond (the original Phillie Phanatic). and Duran Duran with their first American TV appearances. Ricky Martin, Stevie Wonder, The Jets, New Edition and many more top recording artists.

On July 23, 2011, WPHL re-aired Dancin' On Air as part of a special marathon celebrating the show's 30th anniversary. During the marathon, special vignettes were featured with former regular dancers, hosts of the show, and executive producer Michael Nise sharing their memories, experiences and thoughts from the show and also talked about how the show became a major influence and how it changed their lives.

On November 4, 2011, Mike Rossi, Princess, Jimmy Jam, Andy Gury and Eddie Bruce hosted a 30th reunion dance party celebration.

References

Mike Rossi - former dancer and host. 1983-1986

External links

• Dancin' On Air website