MARQUETTE COUNTY, Mich. (WZMQ) – Tickets are on sale for the U.P. Hospice Foundation’s signature annual fundraiser, A Night Under the Big Top, presented by Dancing with Our Stars Marquette County Style, taking place at Kaufman Auditorium on Thursday, October 8.
After ten years of entertaining sold-out audiences, this year’s production introduces a new circus-inspired theme that promises an unforgettable evening of music, dance, theatrical performances, dazzling costumes, and larger-than-life entertainment, all while supporting compassionate hospice care for families throughout Marquette County.
Tickets are $50 and include admission to both the live performance and an exclusive Big Top Wrap Party at Ore Dock Brewing Company immediately following the show. Guests will have the opportunity to celebrate with the celebrity performers, dance professionals, volunteers, and sponsors while enjoying the excitement of the evening’s results.
“This year’s show is unlike anything we’ve done before,” said Dave Aro, Executive Director of the U.P. Hospice Foundation. “We’ve created an immersive experience that combines incredible local talent with an important mission. Every ticket purchased helps provide comfort, dignity, and meaningful moments for hospice patients and their families.”
Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., with the show beginning at 6:30 p.m. Audience members will watch local celebrity teams perform alongside talented dance professionals in a competition for three coveted honors:
· Big Top Favorite – Awarded to the team raising the most funds for Hospice care.
· Circle Ring Star – Selected by the judges for outstanding performance.
· The Greatest Show – Presented to the team earning the highest combined judges’ scores and fundraising totals.
Under the creative direction of Ann Marie Frenn, each team has been working alongside local dance professionals to prepare performances that are imaginative, entertaining, and full of heart. In addition to purchasing tickets, community members can support their favorite celebrity team by casting votes online throughout the fundraising campaign.
Proceeds from the event benefit the U.P. Hospice Foundation, supporting programs that help fulfill final wishes, provide equipment and comfort items, assist caregivers, and create meaningful experiences for Hospice patients and their loved ones. Through the Foundation’s Make-A-Memory Program, donations have made it possible for patients to reunite with family, attend milestone celebrations virtually, enjoy fishing trips, receive specialized equipment, and experience countless moments that otherwise may not have been possible.
To purchase tickets or vote for your favorite celebrity team, visit dwos.uphomehealth.org.
