Two King’s Alumni Take Center Stage for Dancing Stars of Wilkes-Barre Charity Event

Proceeds Will Benefit Local Children's Theatre.

Armando Sallavanti `21 and Rich Perry `03 will be featured as local celebrity contestants at the Dancing Stars of Wilkes-Barre charity event on March 29, 2025 in the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.

The event is modeled after the ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” and pairs local business and community leaders with professional dancers for an evening competition where winners are selected by judges and online voters. Proceeds benefit the KISS Theatre Company, a local theatre working to provide an inclusive performing arts education for all children. For more information, visit https://kirbycenter.org/show/dancing-stars-of-wilkes-barre/.

Sallavanti, of Old Forge, Pa., is a certified financial planner for MassMutual who also provides financial insights to a social media audience of more than 85,000 followers.

“I decided to participate in the event when I was asked because I think it benefits a great cause and I believe life is most exciting when we try things that are new and out of our comfort zone,” said Sallavanti. “This definitely qualifies as that for me, so I was excited to become a beginner at something and hopefully compete and win!”

Perry, of White Haven, Pa., is a media sales representative with 28/22 News. A bestselling author, college lecturer, and podcast host, he also offers business communications coaching and marketing consulting services to private clients. Perry is president of Wilkes-Barre POWER!, a nonprofit organization that promotes professional development, business growth, and community enrichment.

 “Why I’m doing this? Because I enjoy giving back and helping community groups that are making a positive impact in our area,” said Perry. “This seemed like a great chance to do something good, help KISS Theatre and have lots of fun along the way.”