TV Asahi, one of Japan’s leading commercial television networks, is partnering with Emmy Award-winning producers Craig Plestis and Clara Plestis and their production company, Smart Dog Media, to co-produce an innovative new talent competition show, SONG vs DANCE. Craig and Clara will serve as Executive Producers, with Takaaki Kitano overseeing production in Japan as they collaborate to create this fresh and dynamic format. Smart Dog Media is represented by Paradigm who brokered the format deal with TV Asahi.

This groundbreaking co-production brings together two of the biggest forms of artistic performance – singing and dancing – establishing a new benchmark in competition television. Outstanding performers will compete in thrilling head-to-head battles in a video game-inspired format, leaving only one winner and answering the ultimate question: Which is better, song or dance? This format is destined to be the next international variety hit.
Smart Dog Media and TV Asahi will be showcasing SONG vs DANCE at the inaugural MIP London in February 2025.

SONG vs DANCE marks TV Asahi’s first co-production with a U.S.-based partner, as they join forces with Smart Dog Media to introduce this exciting new format to Japanese audiences. The show promises to captivate viewers with its mix of dynamic art forms, high-energy competition, and larger-than-life performances.

Smart Dog Media commented: “We are so excited to be collaborating with TV Asahi on this groundbreaking, unique series. This is the first variety show to pit the two most popular forms of entertainment against each other in epic battles. This format strives to embrace Japanese pop culture, and video game aesthetics and game structure, to bring a distinct look and feel to a performance competition show. We believe this series will be internationally loved for generations. We crafted this show to be like our The Masked Singer; bold, different and never been done before.”

Takaaki Kitano, Creator and Producer, added: “Since last June, Craig, Clara and I have exchanged numerous ideas and finally reached the innovative format of SONG vs DANCE. The proposals from the Smart Dog Media team, led by Craig and Clara, are fresh and groundbreaking, and I am thrilled to be able to co-produce this new format with them. SONG vs DANCE is a unique musical showdown where singers and dancers compete for their pride. The only criterion for judging is ‘which outstanding performance touched your heart the most!’ This simple yet entirely new format is sure to become an innovative entertainment program that viewers of all generations can enjoy. Look out for the intense battles of world-class performers that Japan proudly presents.

Details regarding the premiere date, casting, and airing schedule for SONG vs DANCE will be announced in the coming months.