Ballroom dancing, according to one youngster that cuts a dash on the dancefloor "is a sport that hasn't been invented into a sport yet."

This feelgood documentary goes on to show that as well as a laugh and a lap of the ballroom, dance can also instil qualities such as discipline and cultural respect.

Director Marilyn Agrelo follows a group of junior New York schoolkids - mainly 10 and 11-year-olds - as they take part in a 10-week ballroom class.

For many of the youngsters - many who are dirtpoor or newly arrived immigrants in America - the lessons provide a coveted opportunity to impress.

The vibrant, multi-cultural mix is taken out of schools ranging from know-it-alls from Manhattan's Tribeca to Dominican rug-cutters from Washington Heights.

They're brought together by a discipline that demands poise, posture and piles of attitude.

However, the side-effect is a civilising of the youngsters, many of whom were destined for the scrapheap.

"I see them turning into these ladies and gentlemen," says one teacher before bursting into tears.