Dazzle Mad Hot Ballroom 2020

Why?

Well - I’ve wanted to be a Dazzle Dancer ever since I attended my first Dazzle. But now that it’s real, my WHY is much more personal. I want my mom to see me dance again on stage for the first time in 30 years. My mom worked so hard to pay for my dance lessons and drove me all over the Northeast on weekends and evenings to make sure I made it to every class and rehearsal. My love of dance and the arts was inspired by my mother. All children should have the opportunity to be inspired by the arts and YA is on a mission to do just that. So I dance for my mom and Young Audiences and all those who inspire young people to expand their learning through the arts.

Tanuja Dehne is the President & CEO of The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation in Morristown, New Jersey. Established in 1974, The Dodge Foundation has distributed nearly $500 million in grants and technical support to New Jersey nonprofits, with a focus on the arts, education, the environment, “informed communities” (including local journalism), and poetry. As a former Dodge Trustee, Tanuja helped to shape the foundation's new strategic plan...Visit my complete bio HERE.

Irvin Zavala Verdugo

Irvin was born in Chihuahua Mexico, and moved to the United States at the age of 10. He was living in Las Cruces New Mexico for the last thirteen years, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in dance with a Dancesport concentration from New Mexico State University. During his time at NMSU, Irvin trained in the Ballroom and competed at collegiate events at an Open Gold level. He is also a certified Zumba Instructor! Irvin decided to pursue his career further after graduating and moved across the country to New Jersey. He has been a professional dancer & instructor with Fred Astaire Dance Studios since July of 2018, and he is excited to be a part of Dazzle Mad Hot Ballroom for the first time!