With the glitz and glamour of a major televised event, Vero Beach is abuzz with excitement as the Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition and Riverside Theatre officially unveil the star-studded lineup for the 14th Annual Dancing with Vero’s Stars. This beloved community spectacle, a cornerstone of the local social calendar, promises another unforgettable evening of dazzling performances, all while championing a vital cause for families across our region. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 16, 2026, when the stage at Riverside Theatre will ignite with local talent and professional grace.
This signature event isn’t merely about dance; it’s a powerful demonstration of community spirit and philanthropy. Each year, ten prominent local figures step out of their comfort zones, partnering with seasoned professional dancers to deliver a captivating show. Their dedication, coupled with the enthusiasm of our residents, directly supports the Healthy Start Coalition’s invaluable mission: ensuring that moms, dads, babies, and families in Indian River County have the resources they need to thrive from the earliest stages of life.
The anticipation is palpable as the 2025-26 cast and their professional partners have been officially announced, featuring a vibrant mix of community leaders, entrepreneurs, and dedicated local professionals. Each star brings their unique energy and commitment to the dance floor, embodying the spirit of Vero Beach.
The dynamic pairings for the upcoming event include:
- Couple #1: Susan Adams, a respected community leader and Indian River County Commissioner, will showcase her moves alongside the world-class ballroom champion, Lance Sexton, who boasts over three decades of dance experience.
- Couple #2: Fourth-generation Indian River native and owner of Hayes Construction Group, Brian Hayes, is set to impress with Elena Smirnova, a seasoned ballroom professional renowned for her elegant style.
- Couple #3: Entrepreneur and proprietor of Sweet Desires, Brandy Buckner, joins forces with Primo Garcia, a versatile dancer whose career spans the worlds of hip hop, ballroom, and Broadway.
- Couple #4: Mortgage broker, co-owner of Shack Shine, and dedicated community volunteer, David Imler, partners with Karren Walter, a two-time Mirror Ball winner and veteran of Dancing with Vero’s Stars.
- Couple #5: Spa owner and confidence-builder, Paige Charbonneau, brings her infectious energy to the stage with Edwin Rivera, a dynamic Zumba instructor and experienced performer.
- Couple #6: Entrepreneur, attorney, and real estate investor, Ryan Scarpa, will display his talent alongside Marianella Tobar, a professional Latin and Ballroom dancer with an impressive competitive record.
- Couple #7: Registered nurse and tireless community advocate, Tina McCurry, teams up with Jang Don, a world-renowned ballroom professional and international champion.
- Couple #8: Young restaurateur and podcast host, Justin Stolaj, will infuse the floor with his positive energy, guided by Alex Bacelo, a talented dancer and instructor passionate about inspiring others.
- Couple #9: Athletic wear entrepreneur, Melissa Zorc, embraces the challenge with Dimas Caraballo, a Cuban-born Latin dance expert and international performer.
- Couple #10: Longtime local business owner, Rob Vaccaro, promises to bring the heat with Mary Ida Spradlin, a top-ranked ballroom competitor and creative choreographer.
The impact of Dancing with Vero’s Stars extends far beyond a single evening of entertainment. It serves as the primary fundraiser for the Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition, making a profound difference in countless lives. Last year alone, the event generated an astounding $230,000 in net unrestricted funds for the organization, contributing to a remarkable total of over $3 million raised across its 13-year history. This unwavering support empowers local families, ensuring healthier beginnings and brighter futures for our youngest residents.
The excitement is already mounting for this highlight of the Vero Beach calendar. Be sure to mark your calendars, as tickets for this highly anticipated event will officially go on sale on December 2nd. Don’t miss your chance to witness an incredible display of local talent and professional artistry, all while supporting a cause that truly enriches the fabric of our community. For additional details regarding the Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition or Dancing with Vero’s Stars, please visit www.irchealthystart.org or call 772-563-9118.
