Nick busts a move with ‘Dance on Sunset’

Nickelodeon is ready to get down with a new dance/variety series for tweens dubbed “Dance on Sunset.”

“Sunset,” hosted by Quddus Philippe (MTV’s “TRL”), will feature a mix of musical acts, free-style dance competitions and a troupe of young dancers who will teach kids the latest moves. In addition, viewers can get in step each week in front of the TV and on a new complementary Web site.

Stars slated to perform include Ashlee Simpson, Sean Kingston, Akon with Colbie and Menudo. Among the guest stars on tap are Janet Jackson, Omarion and Nickelodeon’s Miranda Cosgrove (”iCarly”) and the Naked Brothers Band.

Produced by Magical Elves (Bravo’s “Project Runway”) and created by talent agents Bryan Leder and Frederick Levy, the series will encompass 12 half-hour episodes. It is set to premiere at 9:30 p.m. March 29 after the 2008 Kids’ Choice Awards. Following its premiere, “Sunset” will move to its regular time slot of 8:30 p.m. Sundays.