Vero Beach, FL — The spotlight is ready, and the excitement is building! Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition and Riverside Theatre proudly announce the lineup for the 14th Annual Dancing with Vero’s Stars, happening Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Riverside Theatre. This beloved event pairs ten local stars with professional dancers for an unforgettable evening of entertainment—all in support of Healthy Start’s mission to help moms, dads, babies, and families thrive.
Meet our 2025-26 Stars and Couples:
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Couple #1: Susan Adams & Lance Sexton- Community leader and Indian River County Commissioner Susan Adams brings her passion for service to the dance floor alongside Lance Sexton, a world-class ballroom champion with over 30 years of experience.
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Couple #2: Brian Hayes & Elena Smirnova- Fourth-generation Indian River native and owner of Hayes Construction Group, Brian Hayes, takes on the challenge with Elena Smirnova, a seasoned ballroom pro known for her elegant style and competitive edge.
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Couple #3: Brandy Buckner & Primo Garcia- Entrepreneur and owner of Sweet Desires, Brandy Buckner, joins forces with Primo Garcia, a versatile dancer whose career spans hip hop, ballroom, and Broadway performances.
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Couple #4: David Imler & Karren Walter- Mortgage broker, co-owner of Shack Shine, and community volunteer David Imler partners with Karren Walter, a two-time Mirror Ball winner and veteran of Dancing with Vero’s Stars.
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Couple #5: Paige Charbonneau & Edwin Rivera- Spa owner and confidence-builder Paige Charbonneau brings her energy and competitive spirit to the stage with Edwin Rivera, a dynamic Zumba instructor and seasoned performer.
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Couple #6: Ryan Scarpa & Marianella Tobar- Entrepeneur, attorney, and real estate investor Ryan Scarpa will showcase his moves with Marianella Tobar, a professional Latin and Ballroom dancer with an impressive competitive record.
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Couple #7: Tina McCurry & Jang Don- Registered nurse and community advocate Tina McCurry teams up with Jang Don, a world-renowned ballroom professional and international champion.
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Couple #8: Justin Stolaj & Alex Bacelo- Young restaurateur and podcast host Justin Stolaj brings his positive energy to the floor with Alex Bacelo, a talented dancer and instructor with a passion for inspiring others.
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Couple #9: Melissa Zorc & Dimas Caraballo- Athletic wear entrepreneur Melissa Zorc takes on the challenge with Dimas Caraballo, a Cuban-born Latin dance expert and international performer.
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Couple #10: Rob Vaccaro & Mary Ida Spradlin- Longtime local business owner Rob Vaccaro promises to bring the heat with Mary Ida Spradlin, a top-ranked ballroom competitor and creative choreographer.
Why it matters: Dancing with Vero’s Stars isn’t just a night of glitz and glamour—it’s the premier fundraiser for Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition. Last year’s event raised $230,000 net proceeds of unrestricted funds for the organization, and together, they have contributed more than $3 million over the past 13 years to support local families.
Tickets go on sale December 2nd!
For additional information about Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition or Dancing with Vero’s Stars, visit us online at www.irchealthystart.org or call 772-563-9118.
