Moment of truth for brave locals

A picture of dancing duo Brent Park and Rotorua Daily Post reporter Kyra Dawson with Jan Morgan (back) and dance teacher Shelley Martin. PHOTO/BEN FRASER

FORGET about the nerves, bruised limbs and egos after toe-tripping practice in the dance studio. It's time for 20 brave locals to put on their game-faces!

The Harcourts Dancing with Rotorua Stars finally hits the stage tomorrow when the dancing duos shimmy the shine off their shoes raising money for the Rotorua Community Hospice.

Hospice Trust funding manager Jan Morgan is "beyond grateful" to the contestants who have shown commitment and dedication to the fundraiser.

"All the competitors have sacrificed leisure and family time to attend practice sessions over the past 18 weeks. They all lead such busy working lives; I'm very humbled by their generosity of time," she said.

She said it had been amazing to watch the grit and determination of the dancers; most of whom had little dance experience.

"It takes incredible courage to put themselves out there in front of their peers, friends and family, I'm in awe of their bravery."

Hospice is hoping to raise $60,000 for its trust, and the inaugural event promises to be special.

"The costumes are stunning and the routines look fabulous, thanks to dance instructors Shelley Martin and Troy Smith, the evening promises to be a marvellous occasion."

She said Rotorua had responded beyond expectations, and after only two weeks the 114 tables were sold. A limited number of tickets are still available in the terrace seats, available from Ticketmaster.

Ms Morgan said not only was the evening a fundraiser for Hospice, it was a celebration of Rotorua's sense of community.

"At times I have been overawed at the goodwill of so many businesses that have collectively contributed to this event. It really symbolises the strong community support for hospice."

Rotorua-born actor Cliff Curtis, former All Black Hika Reid, television personality Hayley Holt and Rotorua Hospice chief executive Sharron Black make up the four-person judging panel.

The event will also include silent and live auctions.

Jackie Clarke and Tamati Coffey will be the MCs.

WHAT: Harcourts Dancing with Rotorua Stars
WHERE: Rotorua Energy Events Centre
WHEN: Tomorrow 7.15pm