The Yocum Institute for Arts Education celebrated the 11th anniversary of Dancing with the Reading Stars Friday at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Reading.
Inspired by the hit television show, this annual event showcases “stars” representing Berks County’s diverse community during a fun-filled and inspiring evening. The pairs dance and raise money to further Yocum’s mission to provide arts education throughout the county and beyond.
Ten dance pairs participated this year live on the DoubleTree dance. This year’s star couples were: Ammo Brown and CJ Darden; Pete Clauser and Dawn Dietrich; Clay Gray and Courtnie Nein; Guy and Ryan Griffin-Silveri; Aaron Rineer and Paul Scalzo; Tasha Santiago and Alysa Marasco; Luci Schaeffer and Tim Sanger; Brad and Catherine Weisman; Thank you Santo Marabella and Holly James for performing on behalf of Pat Perfect and Bill Woolworth.
In addition, members of the the Yocum Institute Board performed a group routine. The members included were: Heather Alexander, Ed Babiarz, Susan Denaro, Chris Miller, Susan Rohn, Rene Shewalter, Rick Stoudt, Lisa Tiger, Benjamin Watts, and Amy Young.
Funding was raised through sponsorships, donations, and votes for the dance pairs. Votes were cast in $10 increments. Recognition is given for the “Fan Favorite” and Grand Champions 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place based on the pairs who raise the most funds.
Winners included: Audience Favorite – in-person: Clay Gray and Courtnie Nein Grand Champion 3rd : Brad and Catherine Weisman. Grand Champion 2nd: Clay Gray and Courtnie Nein. Grand Champion 1st: Pat Perfect and Bill Woolworth.
The dance pairs were able to raise over $85,000 to further Yocum’s mission to provide arts education throughout the county.
The Yocum Institute for Arts Education is a multi-arts educational nonprofit organization and Berks County’s leader in community arts education. For 87 years, Yocum has educated, inspired, and shaped our community through the arts. We help people of all ages and abilities be more creative and confident, which in turn improves health and quality of life. No other form of education or activity builds our mental, emotional, and social skills the same way—especially for kids.
