Dancing for the Arts 2024: A Spectacular Showcase of Local Talent and Community Spirit

An Enchanting Evening of Dance, Music, and Philanthropy

On March 16, 2024, the Rochester Arts and Cultural Trust will present the 11th edition of Dancing for the Arts (DFTA), a captivating dance competition that brings together local celebrities and professional dancers for a night of extraordinary performances. The event, held at the Hilton Hotel, promises an unforgettable evening filled with graceful moves, stunning costumes, and heartfelt stories, all in support of a noble cause.

A Celebration of Youth Arts Education and Programming

Dancing for the Arts is more than just a dance competition; it’s a celebration of the profound impact that arts education has on the lives of young people. The event raises funds to support youth arts programs and initiatives in the Rochester community, providing opportunities for children and teenagers to explore their creativity, develop their talents, and discover the transformative power of the arts.

ABC 6 News: Proud Media Sponsor and Emcees

ABC 6 News/KAAL-TV is honored to serve as the media sponsor for Dancing for the Arts 2024. Our commitment to promoting arts and culture in the Rochester area extends beyond the newsroom, and we are thrilled to be a part of this remarkable event. Our very own Randy Brock, a seasoned meteorologist and beloved personality, will take on the role of emcee, alongside the esteemed Dr. Dawn Davis of the Rochester Arts and Cultural Trust. Together, they will guide the audience through an evening of elegance, entertainment, and inspiration.

Fierce Competition and Coveted Trophies

The celebrity couples competing in Dancing for the Arts 2024 will vie for three prestigious trophies:

Most Money Raised:

This trophy recognizes the couple that successfully garners the highest amount of donations for youth arts education programs.

Most Community Support:

This trophy acknowledges the couple that receives the most votes from the community, demonstrating their widespread popularity and support.

Judge’s Choice:

This trophy honors the couple that delivers an exceptional dance performance, impressing the panel of esteemed judges with their technical skills, artistry, and overall stage presence.

Meet the Dazzling Celebrity Couples of DFTA 2024

Dr. Nick Pulos and Dr. Bridget Pulos:

A dynamic duo from Mayo Clinic, Dr. Nick Pulos, an orthopedic hand surgeon, and Dr. Bridget Pulos, a specialist in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, bring their expertise and passion for the arts to the dance floor.

Joanie Mix Lande and Daniel Klinkhammer:

Joanie Mix Lande, the owner and choreographer of Dance Lab, joins forces with Daniel Klinkhammer, the Co-Artistic Director of the Rochester Dance Company. Their combined love for dance and their dedication to the community make them formidable contenders.

Amanda Leyawiin and Eugenia Leyawiin:

Amanda Leyawiin, the Director of Operations at Rochester Athletic Club, and her sister Eugenia Leyawiin, a dedicated teacher, share a love for movement and a desire to make a difference in the lives of young artists.

Brandon Sampson and Heather Ritenour – Sampson:

Brandon Sampson, Co-Founder and Licensed Certified Prosthetist at Limb Lab, a talented singer-songwriter, and musician with Six Mile Grove, teams up with Heather Ritenour – Sampson, a psychotherapist, school-linked mental health expert, musician, and yoga instructor. Their unique talents and shared passion for the arts promise an unforgettable performance.

Dr. Chad Weaver and Jacob Malwitz:

Dr. Chad Weaver, a renowned dermatologist at Winona Health, and Jacob Malwitz, Enterprise Manager for Event Production at Mayo Clinic, bring their enthusiasm and dedication to the stage. Their collaboration promises a captivating performance that will leave the audience spellbound.

Tony Narr and Casie Narr:

Tony Narr, a Nurse Administrator at Mayo Clinic, and his wife Casie Narr, a Nurse Practitioner and Professor of Nursing at the University of Minnesota, Rochester, bring their love for the arts and their commitment to community service to the dance floor.

Matt Ruzek and Julie Ruzek:

Matt Ruzek, Principal of John Marshall High School, and his wife Julie Ruzek, Executive Director of Cradle to Career, showcase their leadership skills and passion for education through their participation in Dancing for the Arts.

Melissa Adams-Goihl and Jeff Goihl:

Melissa Adams-Goihl, a successful Realtor with Black Swan Real Estate Group and a talented actor and singer, teams up with her husband Jeff Goihl, Diagnostic Tech Lead at Mayo Clinic and a gifted actor, to create a performance that combines artistry and heart.

Exceptional Choreography by April and Gary Dahl

The celebrity couples will receive expert guidance and choreography from April Dahl and Gary Dahl of Dahl Dance, renowned instructors who have choreographed numerous award-winning dance routines. Their creativity and attention to detail will elevate the performances, ensuring a visually stunning and emotionally captivating experience for the audience.

Ticket Sales and Voting Details

Tickets for Dancing for the Arts 2024 will be available for purchase beginning February 1 through the Greater Rochester Arts and Cultural Trust’s website. Online voting will also be available pre-event, allowing the community to show their support for their favorite couples and contribute to the fundraising efforts.

A Call to Action: Be a Part of the Magic

Dancing for the Arts 2024 promises to be an extraordinary event filled with passion, talent, and community spirit. Join us on March 16 at the Hilton Hotel to witness the captivating performances of our celebrity couples, celebrate the power of the arts, and make a meaningful contribution to youth arts education in Rochester. Together, we can make a difference and inspire a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts.