| One of the hottest National Basketball Association (NBA) professional dance teams will be touring with Armed Forces Entertainment, performing a high-energy show for military personnel stationed throughout the Pacific Rim November 25—December 6. This will be the squad’s fourth time performing for troops overseas with Armed Forces Entertainment.
The twelve members of the Orlando Magic Dancers and Stuff the Magic Mascot include Christy Bartholomew, Sarah Berch, Deanna Clover, Kim Cole, Lacey Drohan, Erin Gomersall, Shana Henning, Trinity McCray, Kim Meyers, Tara Pescatore, Brooke Rayburn, and Kelly Rescinti. Most of the squad has strong family ties to the military, from husbands and grandfathers to brothers-in-law, which inspires their dedication in taking their show around the world in a show of support for the troops.
“We are truly privileged to entertain these men and women who do so much for our country and are so far away from home especially during the holidays,” said Orlando Magic Dancers manager and choreographer, Jeanine Klem-Thomas. “We visited several bases during the holidays on a previous tour and it was incredibly touching to spend time with the soldiers at a time when they really need a touch of home and to be reminded that they are appreciated.”
Having created the first, all-female trampoline dunking team, The Orlando Magic Dancers are considered trendsetters among NBA professional dance teams. The Dunking Magic Dancers have performed worldwide, including the 2006 NBA All-Star game in Houston and the USA Basketball game in Guangzhou, China.
The Magic Dancers are also involved in a charity program called the Challenger Little League, which helps mentally and physically challenged children. The Magic Dancers mentor the children and assist them in the game of baseball.
“These enthusiastic and spirited ladies are incredible athletes and performers,” said Frank Tagatac, Armed Forces Entertainment circuit and regional manager for the Pacific. “The Orlando Magic Dancers are seasoned Armed Forces Entertainment performers and are an ideal group to go out during this time of year since they know firsthand how much it means to our troops.”
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Armed Forces Entertainment is the lead Department of Defense agency for providing entertainment to U.S. military personnel serving overseas, with priority given to those in contingency operations and at remote and isolated locations. The Department of the Air Force is the executive agent of Armed Forces Entertainment.
Founded in 1951, Armed Forces Entertainment brings a touch of home to more than 500,000 troops annually, embracing the best of Americana that stretches across all genres of entertainment. Visit www.armedforcesentertainment.com for more information.
For more information on the Orlando Magic Dancers and Stuff the Magic Mascot, visit www.nba.com/magic/dancers/.
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