A two-step, a waltz, and dramatic dips. These are just some of the moves we hope to see as "Dancing With the South Florida Stars" returns.
The event goes down Jan. 27 at The Manor Live. The evening starts with a red carpet hosted by the legendary Kitty Meow, while the competition portion is hosted by Velvet Lenore and Eric Restivo.
Bobby Blair and Brian Neal are producing the night. Once a regular event on the South Florida social schedule, DWTSFLS returned last year in May to benefit Stonewall Pride. Blair says it’s now in January, so more people can enjoy.
“In April or May the season’s kind of over. There are more people here,” he said.
There are other changes coming besides from the earlier date. Buying a table of 10 will get everyone a cocktail and a tapa, something along the lines of a burger or chicken fingers, per person.
Anyone who buys an individual table seat will get a cocktail. Last year there was confusion about food being served.
A Night of Stars
If you’ve spent any time in or around South Florida’s LGBTQ community, you’ll be star struck.
A celebrity panel of judges includes Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton, Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, SunServe’s Tiffany Arieagus and more.
Returning judge, Gary Santis, was on the panel last year and called out a team for bringing in a ‘ringer’ as a backup dancer and got into a dramatic, mic drop disagreement with a contestant.
“People who compete in this event really want to win. It’s become a signature title to win,” Blair said.
Among the seven pairs competing will be OutSFL’s Queen of Queens, Melissa St. John.
In addition to raising money for Stonewall Pride, Blair wants the competition to shine a spotlight on local talent. “It elevates these local entertainers to being in higher demand in the community. It’s gonna be a stellar night.”
