Dancing Under the Stars is a dazzling and enjoyable evening from the first dance to the judges’ final decisions and awards. The event features a seated dinner and a cast of local celebrities from the Greater New Haven area who are paired with professional ballroom dancers from Dance In Rhythm Studio in a competition unlike any other.
Dancing Under the Stars began in 2009 with a great idea and dedicated professionals seeking an entertaining and different way to draw together new groups of people to share a memorable night - all while supporting the children and families of the Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut. Each year, Karen Pfrommer, owner of Dance In Rhythm Studio, has donated her expertise in all aspects including choreography, education, studio time, and contacts within the industry to bring the event to life.
“For the first five years of Dancing Under the Stars, it was Sue Woods, my business partner, and myself who were heavily active with the fundraiser. Sue was a tremendous support during this time. There has been one person that was there from day one and is still here with me and that is Larry Lazaroff. Larry started as a celebrity dancer the first year and has become more involved every year since. Besides opening the event with a fun dance number, he is integral in securing many of the celebrities who have competed over the years. He has continued to ingrain himself in the House, is the current Event Chair for Dancing Under the Stars, and sits on the RMHCT Advisory Council. It is truly a group effort by so many people that makes Dancing Under the Stars such a success. I am so proud to have been part of it from the very beginning- and I am very excited for this year‘s upcoming event in March!” shared Karen.
The dedication of the dancers, both amateur and professional, during the 4 months leading up to the event is inspiring. After hours of lessons and rehearsals, it all comes together the night of the event when performances are showcased for hundreds of families, friends, and event supporters. Behind the scenes, choreographers, professional instructors, and Dance In Rhythm students and staff all volunteer to ensure our show goes off without a hitch.
Ronald McDonald House could never hold such a fantastic event without the guidance, dedication, and generosity of time and talent of everyone at Dance in Rhythm Studio, especially Karen Pfrommer.