A dance showcase of youngsters in Carlton last weekend raised $3,000 for St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital. Alyssa Palmer has the story.

The tap dancing of children and applause from proud parents filled the Otter Creek Event Center in the Black Bear Casino last Sunday. Those children leaped, spun, and dazzled the crowd. They were performing for the 7th Annual Dancing Against Cancer Dance Showcase, a benefit to raise money for the children of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

(PA Announcer) “Next up is the founder of our show. Seven years ago, Leigha wanted to find a way to help the kids of St. Jude and decided that the best way to do it was by doing what she does best. Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, please welcome Leigha Joy Wallin.”

Town Square Media General Manager Merry Wallin and her daughter, Leigha, were brainstorming how to expand a radio-athon fundraiser. “This is the time of year where these studios are getting ready to perform; they are getting ready to go to competition; they are getting ready for their recitals. So it’s worked really well. They have a chance to have a dress rehearsal. They are the talent, we secure the location, and 100% of the proceeds go to our radioathon, to St. Jude.”

All 600 chairs in the audience were taken, so many people had to stand by the back wall as they watched the eight dance groups perform. Leigha Wallin says the dancers were doing more than just raising money. “Dancing is really important for younger kids who want to be involved in an activity. You learn tons of stuff! You meet role models; you meet friends, people that you’ll never forget. I have friends from all over from dancing that I probably never would have had if I wasn’t in dance.”

Radio stations Kool 101.7 and B.105 sponsored the event which raised $3,000 for St. Judes. Merry Wallin says the success is because of the dancers. “These kids just love to get out on stage. They are the entertainment and it’s just wonderful. And it’s created such an awareness for St. Judes Childrens Hospital as well.”

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