WCTE PBS Central Tennessee presents its inaugural Let’s Dance dance competition fundraiser this week.
The event is designed to unite communities across the Upper Cumberland for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, creativity, and philanthropy, said Avery Hutchins, WCTE PBS president and CEO.
“We’re encouraging viewers to tune in for the live broadcast at 7 p.m. on Feb. 12,” Hutchins said. “This is an event that the whole Upper Cumberland can get behind.”
Inspired by the popular Dancing with the Stars format, Let’s Dance features teams representing the Upper Cumberland counties of Cumberland, Putnam, Jackson, Overton, White, DeKalb, Warren, Fentress, and Coffee.
The in-person event is sold out; however, Hutchins encourages audiences to participate by tuning in to the live broadcast on WCTE PBS at 7 p.m. or streaming online from WCTE TV YouTube Channel live.
Voting for the People’s Choice Award will be from 8 a.m.-9:15 p.m. Feb. 12.
Teams will compete for multiple honors throughout the night, including the 2026 Let’s Dance Champion, Best Dressed, People’s Choice, and the Impact Champion Award, which recognizes the team that mobilized the greatest philanthropic support for WCTE PBS and its mission.
Hutchins said viewers at home can enhance the experience by hosting watch parties, voting live during the broadcast, and cheering on their favorite teams.
The show will also be streamed for supporters outside the WCTE viewing area, allowing friends and family near and far to take part.
Audiences can expect a wide variety of dance styles, bold creativity, and standout performances, Hutchins said.
Teams have been practicing since late July, with some working alongside personal choreographers to refine their routines.
Several participants have even designed and created their own costumes to add a unique personal flair to the competition.
“While the performances promise to dazzle, Let’s Dance is ultimately about community,” Hutchins said. “Participants are not professional dancers, but dedicated supporters of WCTE PBS — including former teachers, brew masters, doctors, lawyers, business professionals, and retirees, all coming together to give back.”
WCTE PBS has provided educational programming, public service, and community connection since 1978 and reaches more than 1 million viewers across 14 counties and Middle Tennessee.
Visit wcte.org for more information.