Carolina Theatre’s Annual Fundraiser, Dancing With The Carolina Stars: Into The Groove returns May 21

Durham Community Leaders Go Head-To-Head in A Dance Contest to Support the Theater   

DURHAM, NC — March 26, 2025 — The Carolina Theatre of Durham hosts its annual fundraiser, Dancing With The Carolina Stars: Into the Groove, on Wednesday, May 21, at 5:30 p.m. The event will support the nearly century-old nonprofit theater’s mission to bring engaging live events, film, and educational programs to downtown Durham, helping to build awareness of the local arts and small business community. Every year, the Carolina Theatre contributes more than $10 Million to the downtown economy, supports over 400 local jobs, and brings 22,000 nonresidents to Durham.  

The Durham community and beyond are invited to the theater for a night of festivities and fundraising. Each year, Bull City’s brightest stars from your favorite local businesses and organizations go head-to-head in a show-stopping dance contest—all for a great cause. This year’s celebrities include Susan Ross, Strategic Advisor & Co-Founder of moss+ross; Angelique Stallings, Vice President of Community Investment at the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce; Kristine Wylie, President & General Manager of Jewelsmith; Adam Dickinson, Broker & Co-Founder of Adam Dickinson Realty Group at Nest Realty; Jodi Myers, Duke Certified Health & Well-Being Coach and Owner of Virge Yoga; and Cecilia ‘Cecy’ Henaine de Davis, Owner of Cecy’s Gallery & Studios. 

“This fundraiser holds special significance as it highlights the strong connections within Durham—linking the arts, nonprofits, local businesses, and cultural organizations, bringing them together in our historic home. The support from dedicated donors, volunteers, and artists is truly inspiring, and we look forward to celebrating this fun and unique evening with the entire community,” said Randy McKay, President & CEO of the Carolina Theatre. 

Each Star will be paired with a professional dancer to showcase weeks of dedication and practice, leaving the audience in awe with their moves. Expect electrifying performances, hilarious judge commentary, a night filled with laughter, friendly rivalry, and incredible entertainment. 

The evening will begin with a lively welcome reception featuring a delectable spread from Chef Paris and sparkling libations. The main event will follow, showcasing the astounding talent of the Durham celebrities and their professional dance partners as they fiercely compete for donations. Sprinkled into the performances will be an exciting live auction and raffles for exclusive experiences and incredible prizes, emceed by Benjamin Farrell, a benefit auctioneer, well-known throughout the Triangle for his work in the nonprofit community. Attendees can also enjoy an unforgettable after-party with enticing treats, live music, and a chance to mingle with the Stars. 

Tickets to Dancing With The Carolina Stars: Into The Groove are available on the Carolina Theatre website and can be purchased at the door on the night of the event.  

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About The Carolina Theatre of Durham:   

Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which manages the city-owned Carolina Theatre at 309 W. Morgan Street, Durham, NC 27701. Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is dedicated to presenting vibrant, thought-provoking film and live performances that contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of downtown Durham and the Triangle Region. More information at carolinatheatre.org.   

Contact: Hanna Mercer 
Senior Director of Marketing, Carolina Theatre of Durham 
(919) 560-3040 | hanna@carolinatheatre.org