Baddour Center’s Dancing For Our Stars set
Key Points
- The Baddour Center hosts its 9th Annual Dancing For Our Stars fundraiser on Feb. 28 at the Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center.
- The “Celebrate the Cinema” themed event features local celebrities competing in a dance-off to support adults with intellectual disabilities.
- Public voting is open online and during the event, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting resident programs and services.
SENATOBIA, Miss. – The glitz of Hollywood is coming to the Mid-South as local stars prepare to trade their daily routines for dance shoes. On Saturday, Feb. 28, the community will gather for the 9th Annual Dancing For Our Stars, a high-energy competition benefiting The Baddour Center.
The event, modeled after the hit television series “Dancing with the Stars,” pairs seasoned performers with community “celebrities” in a quest for the coveted disco ball trophy. This year’s competition moves to a cinematic rhythm with the theme “Celebrate the Cinema,” featuring choreographed numbers set to iconic soundtracks from “Ghostbusters,” “Footloose,” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.”
“We are thrilled to showcase such an outstanding group of performers this year,” said Cassie Shearon, Senior Manager of Recruitment and Advancement at The Baddour Center. “Their dedication and energy will create a meaningful and entertaining experience for every audience member.”
The dancer lineup features a diverse roster of local talent:
- Abbey McCracry and The Vibettes
- Chase and Julie Waldrip
- Donnie and Brooke Marrs
- Erin Billingsley and Team Bones
- Edward Bogard and Karis Chambliss
- Jared Hardie and Naiya Nolan-Dillard
- Trell Kimmons and Jelissa Myers
The evening also highlights the residents of The Baddour Center—a residential community dedicated to adults with intellectual disabilities—who will provide special entertainment during the program. Jim Jaggers, former News Channel 3 meteorologist and past competitor, returns to lead the festivities as the night’s emcee.
The event will be held at the Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center at the University of Memphis. Doors open at 6 p.m. for hors d’oeuvres and drinks, with the main program beginning at 7 p.m.
Beyond the choreography, the event serves as a critical engine for the center’s mission. Supporters can influence the outcome by “voting” for their favorite teams online or at the event. Each vote costs $1, and 100 percent of the funds raised directly support the programs and services provided to Baddour Center residents.
“This event is powered by our community—from the dancers and sponsors to the studios and supporters who make it all possible,” Shearon said. “We are incredibly thankful for that generosity.”
General admission tickets are available for $50. Supporters can cast votes or purchase tickets at www.dancingforourstars.com or by contacting Kate Douglas at 662-366-6933.
