MIPCOM: ITV Studios has picked up the rights to a new reality dance format from RTL in the Netherlands.

Worldwide distribution rights to The Ultimate Dance Battle have been acquired by ITV Studios Global Entertainment, with the deal completed in Cannes this week.

The show features five professional choreographers who pit their hand-picked teams of dancers against each other on the dance floor.

The format runs from the auditions and dance camp to a series of live shows where viewers vote to eliminate their least favourite groups.

Dance challenges focus on hip hop, ballet, contemporary jazz, latin and ballroom, while a panel of judges give their opinion on each group throughout the series – with an experienced head judge being tasked with making tough decision throughout the process.

The format was created by RTL Nederland in association with top choreographer and TV personality Dan Karaty and producer Rudolf Polderman.

Ultimate Dance Battle debuted on Dutch channel RTL5 earlier this year and a second season is lined up for spring 2012.

Mike Beale, director of international formats at ITV Studios, said: “The show is a rollercoaster ride for choreographers, dancers and viewers, and we believe the incredible feats of endurance, teamwork and creativity will attract buyers to this exciting reality dance show.”

Matthias Scholten, director of content for RTL Nederland, added that one of the largest European TV markets has already expressed an interest in adapting the format.

“We hope that with the collaboration with ITV Studios many countries will follow,” he said.

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