By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Before the lights, before the applause, and before a single step is performed on stage, the journey begins quietly in practice rooms filled with nerves, laughter, and determination. For the participants of this year’s Easter Seals Stars fundraising event, the process was just as meaningful as the performance itself. Practice sessions became spaces of vulnerability and growth, where individuals with little to no formal dance experience committed to learning something entirely new, all in support of children with physical disabilities.
Inside one of those rehearsal spaces, Curtis Ennis, director of education at Halton District School Board, worked through choreography alongside professional dance instructor Heather Parker. The atmosphere reflected what many first-time dancers experience when they enter the dance studio. Heather explained that teaching Curtis was not all that different from working with her regular students.
“It’s actually the same as when we have our students walk through the door on a regular basis for the first time,” Heather said. “Most people coming to us have never even stepped foot on a dance floor, so Curtis is really not in that way any more special than our other students. However, I do think he is very special in giving up his time to do this for the kids, so yeah, that’s what makes it unique.”
For Ennis, the experience came with its share of challenges. Learning choreography, keeping time, and performing in an unfamiliar environment pushed him far outside of his comfort zone.
“A lot of anxiety, feeling out of my element,” Ennis shared. “But Heather’s a great teacher, so that gives me confidence.”
That mix of discomfort and encouragement became a recurring theme among participants. The rehearsal process demanded not only physical effort but also a shift in mindset. Participants had to embrace imperfection, trust their partners, and commit to the cause that brought them there.
Kristina Shea, founder of BlueSky BlueOcean AI, described her journey as both humbling and energizing. She entered the competition with no background in ballroom or Latin dance, making every rehearsal a learning curve.
“The biggest challenge has definitely been the dancing itself,” Shea said. “I have never danced as a couple, and I have never done Latin or ballroom, so this is all very new territory for me. At one point, even knowing my left from my right was sometimes a challenge.”
Despite the obstacles, she found joy in the process. “Pushing myself, laughing through the awkward moments, and actually seeing progress has been incredibly rewarding. It is humbling, energizing, and knowing it is all for such an important cause makes every step, even the wrong ones, completely worth it.”
Her professional partner, Carlos Escalante, brought over 25 years of experience in Latin dance to the partnership. For Escalante, the event was not only about dance but about connection and purpose.
“I heard about the event from a colleague and friend who knew a previous participant,” Escalante explained. “It sounded like an exciting opportunity and for such a worthy cause that when Easter Seals reached out to me, I was happy to support.”
Their journey came with unique challenges, particularly joining later than others. “A combined challenge and highlight,” Carlos said. “We came on board a few weeks later than the other participants. We had to jump on dance styles, music selection, practice schedules, and choreography. Kristina picked up the steps and styles very quickly, helping us close that gap. It’s been great getting to know her and having her as my dance partner.”
The mindset across all participants was rooted in resilience. Whether it was overcoming anxiety, learning new skills, or balancing busy schedules, each dancer approached the experience with a shared goal of making a difference. That commitment came to life on performance night, where approximately 350 attendees gathered to support the cause. The room was filled with anticipation as participants transformed from beginners in rehearsal studios to confident performers on stage.
The lineup featured a diverse group of community leaders and professionals, including Kristina Shea, Sharon Ruddy, Jonah Gould, Alexa Commisso, Curtis Ennis, Steve Cussons, Kelly Ross, and John Romano. Each participant was paired with seasoned dance professionals who guided them through the process, including Carlos Escalante, Mary Mae Romero, Marissa Lauren, Heather Parker, Joe Dukes, Cornell Manning, Roberto Quaresma, and Lila Ghadban.
The performances showcased a range of styles, from Latin rhythms to ballroom classics, each routine reflecting the dedication and growth of the dancers. For many, the stage represented more than just a performance. It was a moment of triumph over self-doubt.
Tania Lee, last year’s grand champion and a judge at this year’s event, understood those emotions firsthand.
“I know what these contestants are going through,” Lee said. “The nerves performing in front of a lot of people, it’s nerve-racking. But all I can say to them is just have fun. Your partner is there to support you, and I’m there for support, not to bring you down.”
Lee’s own journey with the event extended beyond the stage. After competing, she continued to engage with the dance community and even participated in competitions, highlighting the lasting impact of the experience.
Her connection to Easter Seals deepened when she visited one of the camps supported by the organization. “It really is a Disney World for these kids,” she said. “You see where the money goes, and it means the world to them.”
As the evening unfolded, Ennis emerged as the grand champion of the 2026 event. While the title recognized his performance, Ennis emphasized the collective effort of all participants and the true purpose behind the event.
“It feels great to win, but I consider all the participants as co-winners,” Ennis said. “Everyone did an amazing job and represented themselves beautifully. What most people do not see was the very supportive environment backstage. We were all rooting for each other.”
He shared the praise with those the event was designed to support. “While I was crowned grand champion, I consider the kids supported by Easter Seals to be the true champions. I’m just grateful that we could contribute in some small way to the enjoyment many with physical disabilities will have this summer.”
The event’s reach extended far beyond the stage. Funds raised throughout the evening contribute directly to Easter Seals programs, including sending children to accessible summer camps and providing essential mobility equipment. Shea noted that approximately $3,500 can send one child to camp, illustrating how each contribution creates tangible change.
This year’s fundraising efforts made a meaningful impact, with the Easter Seals Dancing with the Stars event raising more than $120,000 overall, including over $23,000 raised by contestant Kelly Ross in support of the cause.
For recipients like Miles, the impact of Easter Seals is deeply personal and life-changing.
“My name is Miles, and I’m 16 years old,” he shared. “Easter Seals has supported me in many ways. They’ve helped fund my commodes, my walkers, and my wheelchair.”
Beyond equipment, Myles highlighted the importance of camp experiences. “The camp is amazing because it’s a place where kids with physical disabilities can be in a place with no barriers. They don’t feel left out because all of the activities are suited for them.”
He also spoke about the social connections that come from these experiences. “I met my best friend at Easter Seals camp in 2022, and we’ve been friends ever since. It’s a great place to meet people who share the same experiences you do.”
Shamil, another recipient and a judge at the event, echoed those sentiments while reflecting on how Easter Seals has shaped his independence.
“I got my power wheelchair through Easter Seals,” Shamil said. “I’ve also had the privilege of going to their summer camps, where I got to be independent, make lifelong memories and friendships, and build confidence.”
He described the transformative nature of those experiences. “I got to try activities like kayaking, sailing, and archery. At first, I was nervous being away from my parents, but seeing other kids in the same situation made me feel more confident. The counsellors were so supportive, and it made me feel like I could just have fun.”
Shamil’s message to the community was clear. “Support Easter Seals so kids like myself with physical disabilities can have the tools and resources they need to reach their goals and live life to the fullest with no limitations and no boundaries.”
Through events like this, Easter Seals continues to create opportunities for children to experience independence, joy, and belonging. And for those who stepped onto the dance floor, the journey proved that sometimes the most meaningful steps are the ones taken outside of comfort zones, in service of others.
