Review: Early winner emerges on ‘Dancing’ spinoff, ‘The Next Pro’

Mom to “DWTS” veteran Mark Ballas and the woman who honed Derek Hough’s dancing skills, Ballas has the personality and standards that haven’t been evident since Len Goodman died. She’s a stickler and isn’t afraid to spar with her son (who’s also a judge) or offer up a catchphrase that could drop nicely into conversation. When Mark tries to argue a point, she offers a quick “end of” and the discussion is over.

When sloppy footwork shows up, she’s quick to point out the rules and emphasize “technique” is the name of the game.

Mom already has a judging job (she’s with Great Britain’s “Strictly Come Dancing”) and has a successful pro and teaching career, but she’s a delight here. Like the judges on “The Great British Bake Off,” she knows when to have fun and when to flex her credibility.

On the opening episode (hosted by an excessively upbeat Robert Irwin), she, Mark and Derek looked at 12 dancers hoping to move up to the mothership in the fall. While one was already on her show, most were dance competition vets who wanted the exposure that comes with the “DWTS” gig.

The six men had to do a jive; the six women were tasked with executing a samba. The worst of each went home and, ultimately, one will move on to the show. This early in, it’s hard to tell who has the skill to teach, choreograph and execute. They’re appropriately bouncy but they don’t have the extras that could lift a third-rate celebrity to a mirror ball finish. As the competition spills out, keep an eye on their confidence and how well they play with the judges. That’ll be key to naming a winner.

And, if “DWTS” decides to add another judge (or replace one of the current ones), look to Shirley Ballas to step up. She’s the connection — and the missing link — the venerable series needs.

“Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” airs on ABC.