DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) – Local celebrities are set to lace up their shoes and hit the dance floor because the 19th annual Celebrity Dance Challenge hits the stage on Thursday.

“It’s a good way to reach out to our community, get to know people in our town who do really important things, and important jobs, and for us to connect with them,” said Brooke Bero, a dancer with Minnesota Ballet.

Bero’s dance partner for the 2025 challenge is Mike Malone, a VP for a tech firm. Malone said he’s excited.

“It’s been fantastic. Brooke’s been great,” he said.

Many contestants choose a dance style like jazz or ballroom. However, Bero and Malone said their performance will be a little different.

“There’s a nice little mashup in the middle there, unexpected ending,” said Malone.

Other contestants include Bob Helland, Eric Huie, and Pete Pascente.

All of the money raised goes back to support the Minnesota Ballet.

The contest takes place Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Depot Theater at 7 p.m.Tickets can be found here.

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