Shining Stars Dance Team to Host Free Prom for Special Needs Dancers

Community rallies to create magical prom experience for 30 dancers from Fond du Lac, Dodge, and Washington counties.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 9:43am

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The Shining Stars Dance Team, a group of 30 special needs dancers ranging from 7 to 41 years old, is hosting its own prom dance on Sunday, March 22 at St. Matthew's Catholic School Gymnasium. With the help of dedicated family members, friends, service organizations, and generous local businesses, this special event will be offered completely free for the dancers and their families.

Why it matters

The Shining Stars Dance Team was founded 10 years ago by Coach Mary Bilgo to create a joyful, inclusive dance program for individuals with special needs. This prom event continues the team's mission of celebrating every dancer, building confidence, and creating opportunities that might not otherwise exist for this community.

The details

The evening will include all the excitement and fun of a traditional prom — music, decorations, dancing, and plenty of celebration. Local nail technicians, hair stylists, and makeup artists have also volunteered their time and talents to help the dancers get ready before the big dance. The Shining Stars Dance Team performs at varsity high school basketball halftime shows in their local communities, where they are proudly introduced and cheered on by enthusiastic crowds.

  • The Shining Stars Dance Team Prom will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
  • The team was founded about 10 years ago with just six dancers and has since grown to 30 members.

The players

Mary Bilgo

The founder of the Shining Stars Dance Team, inspired by her younger brother who had cerebral palsy.

Shining Stars Dance Team

A group of 30 special needs dancers from Fond du Lac, Dodge, and Washington counties, ranging in age from 7 to 41 years old.

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What they’re saying

“All life has value that we should care, treasure and respect. When we dance 'We dance to our own beat.'”

— Mary Bilgo, Founder, Shining Stars Dance Team

What’s next

The Shining Stars Dance Team Prom will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at the St. Matthew's Catholic School Gymnasium.

The takeaway

The Shining Stars Dance Team's prom event is a powerful example of how a community can come together to create joyful, inclusive experiences for individuals with special needs. By providing this free prom, the team is fulfilling its mission of celebrating every dancer and building confidence in a way that might not otherwise be possible.