Dancing Stars of St. John’s County, presented by the St. Augustine Community School of Performing Arts (SACSPA), returns to Flagler College Lewis Auditorium at 5 p.m. on July 12 for an evening where talent meets purpose. This annual fundraiser benefits the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, SACSPA which provides performing arts instruction to children in need and to the elderly in St. Johns County.

Among this year’s featured dancers is Angelina DiGiovanni, a St. Augustine resident whose journey to the spotlight is a powerful testament to resilience and transformation. Born in New Jersey and raised in South Florida, DiGiovanni has faced life with high-functioning autism and dyslexia—conditions that could have silenced her spirit, but instead became the backdrop for a story of determination, artistry and growth.

From a young age, DiGiovanni found joy in movement and expression. She has studied dance and voice, participated in beauty pageants, and even brought characters to life as a scare actor during Halloween Fright Nights. Her interests also led her to cosmetology school, and at 17 she reached a major milestone by earning her driver’s license. Friends and mentors describe her as radiant, focused and endlessly kind—a natural performer with a drive that inspires everyone she meets.

A key part of DiGiovanni’s journey has been her personal growth and healing. She credits the EneRay Temple of Healing, in St. Augustine, for helping her build confidence and resilience through mindful workshops and advanced healing technologies. Their support has played a vital role in nurturing her inner strength as she prepares to take the stage. The temple’s holistic approach helped her rediscover balance, deepen self-trust, and cultivate a grounded presence—qualities she now brings to her dancing.

This year, DiGiovanni is paired with Misha Vlasov, a professional ballroom dancer with more than two decades of competitive experience. Trained under the guidance of Marina and Vasiliy, Vlasov holds the top national ranking in both Pro/Am Mambo and Pro/Am Bronze International Latin. His career includes appearances in The Community Nutcracker Ballet, The Frog Prince Ballet at the Jacksonville Florida Theatre, and Cirque De La Symphony with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. He most recently competed on national television in the latest season of America’s Got Talent.

Their partnership reflects more than just technical precision; it embodies a shared commitment to using dance as a vehicle for change. Through this performance, DiGiovanni and Vlasov aim to draw attention to SACSPA’s work in the community, where arts education is offered as a lifeline for creativity, confidence and connection.

Every vote cast for a dancer in the competition acts as a donation to SACSPA, directly funding its free programming for children and older adults. For DiGiovanni, the opportunity to support this mission through dance is both a personal victory and a community celebration.