Sarasota celebrities square off at SCD Sunset Showdown

Sarasota locals and government figures mixed and mingled in a heated dance competition during the Sarasota Contemporary Dance company's debut Sunset Showdown fundraiser on March 4.

The Dancing With The Stars-style event brought more than 100 supporters to the Church of the Redeemer in downtown Sarasota, where the crowd mixed and mingled before it was time for the show. 

"We've always wanted to do something like this," Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños Wilmott said.

Mayor Kyle Battie, Commissioner Erik Arroyo and other competitors danced along with SCD company members in a mix of lively styles surrounded by a cheering crowd. 

But ultimately, there could only be one winning team. Vic Cipolla and Jessica Obiedzinski were voted the winners by the crowd for their committed performance. 

Wilmott and staff announced the event brought in $86,000 for the company's dance programs and initiatives.