The countdown has begun for those toe-tapping, ballroom blitzing Vernon stars to strut their stuff on the dance floor.
Presented by the North Okanagan Hospice Society and Cheek to Cheek Dance Studios, the 2013 Dancing with the Vernon Stars takes place at the Vernon Recreation Centre Friday at 6:30 p.m., and is sure to get people out of their seats cheering on the contestants.
This year’s theme is “Enjoy the Journey,” whether you are learning to dance or just taking each day as it comes, said Lorna Robb, event organizer and owner of Cheek to Cheek.
“We have planned some new and exciting things this year at the event that will hopefully impress our guests,” she said. “Each dancer has been working very hard and it’s amazing to see their improvements and passion evolve as we get closer and closer to show time.”
Seven dance couples are competing, including Audrey Sutton and Doug Fairweather, Colleen and Brent Barker, Gerhard and Connie Traxel, Phil and Barb Levesque, Ruth Hoyte and Eric Foster, Shelagh and Tim Green, and Vicki Eidi and Andrew Kern.
The public can vote for their favourite dance couple online at nohs.dwtvs.2013.kintera.org for as little as $5 per vote, with all proceeds going to the hospice society.
Hospice supporters don’t need to attend the event to vote, and a tax receipt is provided for anyone donating $20 or more.
“It is always such a wonderful feeling when you see the community pull together and support these types of events,” said Ruth Edwards, executive director of NOHS.
In addition, Daniel and Galina Lebun, winners of the 2012 Dancing with the Vernon Stars (Peoples’ Choice Award), will perform their winning tango as part of the event.
Entertainment also comes in the form of high energy 11-piece dance band, the Legendary Lake Monsters, who will perform after the main dancing event.
Attendees can also nosh on delectable tapas prepared by Gum Tree Catering and enjoy a full cash bar provided by Kindale Development Association.
Tickets are $65 each (available only in advance) and can be purchased by cash or cheque at A.E. Berry Insurance, Cheek to Cheek Dance Studio and Hospice House or with a credit card online at www.nohs.ca/events.
