20 - Don Steffy, Celebrity; Esther Ehrstine, Professional - Sponsor: Snider Foundation

CELEBRITY:  DON STEFFY

Mr. Steffy currently serves as executive director of the Indianapolis Ballet, Indy’s full time professional ballet company. He also is past president of the Rotary Club of Indianapolis. He has spent over 25 years working in the field of arts administration. With the combined talents of artist and administrator in multiple disciplines, he brings a unique perspective to his daily work. Prior to assuming his position with the Ballet, he served as executive director for the Indianapolis Children’s Choir building the profile and financial capacity of this world-renowned organization. He originally came to Indianapolis to open and create operations for the Pike Performing Arts Center. Mr. Steffy enjoyed a full career as a classical ballet dancer, alongside his wife Marylou. Performing in ballet companies in the United States and Europe. Prior to arriving in Indianapolis, he held the post of Artistic Director for the Montgomery Ballet, a professional ballet company located in Montgomery, Alabama. Mr. Steffy holds a B.S. Degree in theater and dance from Kent State University. Currently Mr. Steffy is an active member of the Rotary Club of Indianapolis where he also serves as a board member of the Rotary Foundation of Indianapolis. In 2014, Mr. Steffy Co-Chaired Rotary’s successful city-wide day of service known as Indy Do Day! This initiative engaged over 18,000 volunteers from over 300 businesses and community organizations.

PROFESSIONAL:  ESTHER EHRSTINE

I have been dancing multiple styles of partner dancing for three years. My favorite style of dance is West Coast Swing because of the creative freedom both partners have to engage in dance as a conversation. I am passionate about making dance accessible and enjoyable to  everyone, because I believe that anyone can dance. I’m looking forward to participating in my second year of Dancing Like the Stars.