Local Judge, Kindergarten Teacher, and Realtor Compete for Dancing with The Tri-Cities Stars

Who Will Stand Out on the Dance Floor?

Feet are tapping, and hearts are racing as the countdown to August 24 quickly approaches. The stage is being set for a unique, thrilling ballroom blitz where beloved community figures make their way to the spotlight, trading in their day jobs for dance shoes. This year, the celebrated Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars competition will feature Judge Jason Holly, realtor Lauren Clemson, and Victoria Nanney, a local kindergarten teacher.

Every year, this popular event draws attention to the remarkable everyday ‘stars’ of our Northeast Tennessee community. This roster of participants is chosen from a diverse array of backgrounds—reflecting the robust mosaic that makes up the Tri-Cities area. Joining Judge Holly, Ms. Clemson, and Ms. Nanney on the dancefloor are Ana Gerbasi, Alexis Greene, LJ Hanna, Vivek Vatrana, Savanna McDavid, Brandon McKee, and Ben Plotnicki.

The Stars Train with the Best

The competitors are not left to freestyle. They dedicate countless hours to perfect their routines under the watchful eyes of Mike and Kim Adler—two-time world champions from the United Country Western Dance Council’s Couples Division. The local stars also have the unique opportunity to don some of the dazzling costumes worn on the hit ABC show, “Dancing with the Stars”.

Celebrity and Professional Judges Add Excitement

The evening promises a tantalizing blend of competition and entertainment. Two celebrity judges and two professional judges provide scores and lively, insightful commentary after each performance. And after the glittering performances, the one who best moves his or her feet to the beat will be declared the winner.

More Than Just a Dance

However, Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars is more than just a dance contest—it’s a charitable event aimed at supporting Jeremiah School, a special therapy day school in the region catering to children facing neurological communication and relational delays, including those on the autism spectrum. The funds raised from this event provide a much-needed boost to enriching the lives of these exceptional children.

Meet the Stars Making a Difference

Each competing star is fully dedicated to this charitable cause, with many having their hearts personally tied to it. Ohio native Jason Holly, a judge for the City of Elizabethton and a mock trial coach, is excited to strut his stuff for the Jeremiah School. Carter County’s very own Lauren Clemson, a realtor with Property Executives and an alumna of ETSU, brings her lifelong passion for dancing to the stage. She is driven by her determination to give back to society and make a difference.

Victoria Nanney, a kindergarten teacher at West Side Elementary School, brings energy and enthusiasm to every step. She is devoted to nurturing the development of children and was recognized for her efforts as West Side’s K-3 Teacher of the Year for 2022-2023. She views being part of this dance-off as an honour, and her love for the children under her care extends towards the Jeremiah School students.

Prepare for an Unforgettable Evening

Mark your calendars for August 24, and make your way to the Meadowview Convention Centre in Kingsport to witness the impressive dance-off among our local stars. To secure your seat, visit the event’s official website and cast your vote for your preferred dancer. This is one spectacular event you won’t want to miss—the chance to witness real stars shinning brightly on the dance floor for a great cause.