The second annual Dancing for the Stars was another memorable, successful event for Prescott. More than 1,000 people gathered April 14 for a day of entertainment including two shows, the Red Carpet Reception and after-party.
Presented by Lamb Chevrolet, James Deep Well Ranch, Switch Performing Arts and the Jewish Community Foundation, Dancing for the Stars was well-supported, raising just over $220,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. The evening show sold out in less than 24 hours.
“Our community has proven that they love a great reason to dress up and have a fantastic time in support of our local youth,” said Nicole Kennedy, Vice President of Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona.
The Red Carpet Reception, which accompanied tickets to the evening performance, featured food by El Gato Azul and live music by Drew & Anton. Guests had the opportunity to receive professional photos on the red carpet and live interviews by Councilman Steve Sischka.
Hosted by Leza Lachapelle Dandos, the show at The Elks Theatre and Performing Arts Center was spectacular. Ten couples – local “celebrities” or “champions for children” – were paired with local professional dancers to perform a wide variety of dances from hip-hop to samba to tap. The celebrity dancers worked hard, both at dance practice and asking their community to support them with sponsorships, tickets and votes.
“The saying, ‘It takes a village…’ is so true,” Kennedy said. “We are blessed to have a village of amazing people – from the generosity of our professional dancers sharing their time and talent to our event volunteers and all those who contributed and truly care about the future of our community.”
Notably, three of the celebrity dancers, Jamie Johnson, Michelle Fain and Elena Sanwick, raised just over $150,000 for the local Boys & Girls Clubs. Fain took home the “People’s Choice” and “Best Friendraiser” awards for the most votes and dollars raised overall, and Sanwick took home the “Judge’s Choice” award based on the overall scores from the six celebrity judges.
If you happened to miss the show this year, you can still view it at dancingforthestars.net.
