Dancing with the Stars is a TV show that pairs professional dancers with famous people - stars who often wouldn't know the bunny hop if it bit them in the ass. Each show, an unlucky couple gets voted off. By the end of the season, the only couples left on stage are ballroom rock stars.

"Dancing with the Tacoma Stars" offers a similar experience, but with a very Tacoma twist. All dancers are rock stars within the community. There are six stars: Tacoma City Councilman Ryan Mello, Metro Parks Commissioner Erik Hanberg, Dr. George McClure of Multicare; local investment manager and vocal teacher Jo Goodman, Pierce College Chancellor Dr. Michele Johnson and yoga teacher Nancy Keiter. The dance professionals that they're paired with are based in Western Washington.

The stars have been practicing with their coaches since late 2012 and will hit the Temple Theater stage Saturday, Feb. 16 for a fundraiser and dance competition like no other. Not only will six pro-newcomer pairs face off, but the night also includes performances by six bronze-level amateur dance pairs. Attendees are encouraged to wear their ballroom best and shake their groove things, too.

Anyone can vote for his or her favorite couple in advance or at the event for $1 per vote. Unlike most elections, buy as many votes as you want without shame.  All funds raised go to Tacoma Musical Playhouse's Youth Scholarship and Young at Heart programs.

The evening starts with a dinner at 5:30 p.m. at the Temple Theatre Ballroom. Dinner tickets are $80 each and are fast running out. For $35, you can attend the competition and show with dessert afterward.

You can vote/donate to the fundraiser at the event, or pre-vote for your favorite dancer by calling the Tacoma Musical Playhouse box office at 253-565-6867.

Read Kristin Kendle's full feature on Dancing with the Tacoma Stars in the Weekly Volcano's Arts section.

TEMPLE THEATRE BALLROOM, DANCING WITH THE TACOMA STARS, SATURDAY, FEB. 16, 5:30 P.M. DINNER, 6:40 SHOW, 47 ST. HELENS AVE., TACOMA, $35-$85, 253.565.6867