Denver’s Leaders Step Onto the Dance Floor at Fundraiser
City leaders traded city hall for the dance floor last weekend, dazzling an audience while raising money for a nonprofit that has defined Denver’s cultural scene for decades.
Mayor Mike Johnston and City Councilman Darrell Watson were star attractions at the 15th annual Dancing With the Denver Stars, held Aug. 23 at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. The high-profile gala benefited Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD), an institution recognized nationally for using dance to celebrate culture, empower youth and build bridges across communities.
Civic Leaders in the Spotlight
For one evening, Denver’s top officials set aside their usual roles to learn choreography and perform for hundreds of attendees. Johnston and Watson, more accustomed to debates over budgets and ordinances, leaned on a different set of skills: timing, coordination and stage presence.
Both drew cheers from the crowd, proving that grace under pressure translates beyond public office. Their willingness to step into an unfamiliar spotlight was indicative of a broader commitment to serving Denver through community engagement and presence.
A Night of Elegance and Energy
The ballroom came alive with music, sequins and a sense of shared purpose. Guests filled the Sheraton’s downtown venue, applauding each routine and raising funds through donations, sponsorships and ticket sales.
“In the face of greater economic and social uncertainty we rely on the arts and strong cultural institutions to keep us grounded, healthy and vibrant,” said CPRD president and CEO, Malik Robinson, adding that the company’s new Center for the Healing Arts on the horizon has created additional capacity to serve growing community needs.
The gala’s host committee reflected a spirit of collaboration embodied by this year’s stars. CPRD Board President Gwen Brewer and her husband, Moses Brewer, along with Robinson, highlighted the grassroots support and corporate partnerships that fuel CPRD’s programming.
United Airlines’ visible role, with the attendance of Mizraim Cordero, managing director of state and local government affairs, demonstrated the value businesses place on cultural nonprofits that help shape Denver’s identity.
A Legacy Movement
Founded more than five decades ago, CPRD is a cornerstone of Denver’s artistic landscape. Its programs reach thousands annually, offering classes, performances and outreach initiatives that emphasize inclusivity and cultural heritage.
The organization is especially known for its work with young people, providing mentorship, training and opportunities that extend beyond the stage. By supporting CPRD, event attendees directly contribute to sustaining arts education and access for future generations.
With a spotlight on the stars’ dance steps, the evening carried a deeper message, emphasizing how civic leaders, businesses and cultural institutions can partner to strengthen community bonds.
For audience members, watching elected officials trade suits for sequins symbolized humility and a willingness to join in collective action. The money raised will directly sustain workshops, youth outreach and performances that keep Denver’s cultural rhythm strong.
A Standing Ovation for Collaboration
As the music faded and the applause echoed across the ballroom, attendees were reminded that leadership comes in many forms. On this night, it looked like a mayor and a councilman stepping onto a stage not to give speeches, but to dance for something larger than themselves.
The gala closed with cheers, standing ovations and pledges of continued support. Long after Mayor Johnston, Councilman Watson and the league of Denver stars return to the grind of municipal policy, corporate leadership and community activism, their steps will leave a lasting mark on the city.
