BECKLEY, W.Va. — The countdown is on for the thirteenth season of United Way of Southern West Virginia’s Dancing with the Stars, returning Friday, September 18, 2026, to the Beckley‑Raleigh County Convention Center. The signature fundraiser is once again expected to be one of the region’s biggest social events of the year, bringing together community leaders, local talent, and supporters from across southern West Virginia.
This year’s cast features six couples, each paired with a local choreographer:
- Couple #1: McKenzie Brogan & Chase Morgan — Choreography by Melanie Ellison
- Couple #2: Sara May & Josh Cline — Choreography by Lyndzee Metz
- Couple #3: Megan Buckner & Franklin Buckner — Choreography by Lexi Clay
- Couple #4: Anna Antolini & Dr. Michael Antolini — Choreography by Brittney Fitzgerald
- Couple #5: Brandy Lawrence & Chas Turner — Choreography by Tenley Adams
- Couple #6: Genna Perry Armentrout & Will Dillard — Choreography by Jaydyn Kidd
A panel of judges will select the Judge’s Choice winner based on performance, while the community will determine the People’s Choice winner through $5 votes cast for each couple. Monetary voting will remain open throughout the event until the final performance.
“Our dancers know that this experience is about so much more than learning a routine and taking the stage,” said Trena Dacal, Executive Director of United Way of Southern West Virginia. “At the heart of their commitment is a much bigger purpose. Every dancer has said ‘yes’ to helping us raise critical funds, share the story of the United Way, and make a meaningful difference for individuals and families throughout southern West Virginia.”
Funds raised through Dancing with the Stars support United Way’s annual campaign, benefiting dozens of nonprofit partners across Raleigh, Fayette, Summers, Wyoming, Nicholas, Mercer, and McDowell counties, as well as Bluefield, Virginia. Last year, the event accounted for 30 percent of the organization’s total campaign, underscoring its importance to community programs focused on health, education, financial stability, and resiliency.
“Over its first twelve seasons, Dancing with the Stars has grown into much more than a successful event—it has become an essential part of how we support our community,” Dacal said.
Limited tickets are available at unitedwayswvstars.org. Additional information on winners and total funds raised will be released Tuesday, September 21.
