STREAM AT HOME! The Yocum Institute for Arts Education announces the 11th anniversary of their popular fundraising event, Dancing with the Reading Stars, on Friday, April 22, 2022 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Reading

Inspired by the hit television show, this annual event showcases “stars” representing Berks County’s diverse community at a fun-filled and inspiring evening. The dance pairs dance and raise money to further Yocum’s mission to provide arts education throughout the county.

Yocum’s programs directly impact more than 30,000 people each year. Money raised through Dancing with the Reading Stars supports on-going operations, scholarships, productions, and many outreach programs – half of which are provided at little or no cost.

Nine dance pairs and a group are participating this year, and everyone is excited for their live debut on the ballroom dance floor.

This year’s star couples are: Guy & Ryan Griffin-Silveri, Luci Schaeffer & Tim Sanger, Aaron Rineer & Paul Scalzo, Ammo Brown & CJ Darden, Holly James & Santo Marabella dancing for Pat Perfect & Bill Woolworth, Alysa Marasco & Tasha Santiago, Pete Clauser & Dawn Dietrich, Courtnie Nein & Clay Gray, Catherine & Brad Weisman, Representatives of the Yocum Institute Board of Directors: Heather Alexander, Ed Babiarz, Susan Denaro, Chris Miller, Susan Rohn, Rene Shewalter, Rick Stoudt, Lisa Tiger, Benjamin Watts, Amy Young

Funding is raised through sponsorships, donations and votes for the dance pairs. Votes are cast in $10 increments and can be made online at www.yocuminstitute.org/dwtrs, by QR code or during the livestream. Voting is already underway and concludes the night of the event on April 22 after all pairs perform. Recognition will be given for the “Virtual Fan Favorite” based on the most votes at the end of the event and and the pair who raises the most funds will be named Grand Champion.

Tentative Timeline:
Entrance of dance pairs at 6:15pm
Performance at 7pm
Final Voting at 8:45pm