Sparta couple to hit the dance floor in local competition

White County will have familiar faces on the dance floor when WCTE PBS’s Let’s Dance! takes center stage on February 12, with Sparta residents Dr. Trey and Jessica Upchurch representing the county in the popular community fundraiser that will take place at the Putnam County Convention Center.

The event brings together dancers from across the Upper Cumberland, including participants from White, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Overton, Cumberland, Coffee, Warren, Putnam, Pickett, and Wilson counties. Contestants will compete for several honors throughout the evening, including Fan Favorite, Best Dance, Best Costume, and the Philanthropic Award, all while supporting WCTE PBS.

For the Upchurches, participating together was an easy decision. The couple first met while serving in the military and will celebrate 21 years of marriage this year. They are the proud parents of their daughter, Lillian, who is currently a freshman at Tennessee Tech University.

Originally from Fentress County, Trey and Jessica later made White County home when Trey began teaching in Putnam County. Today, they are well known locally as the owners of Happy Trails Brewery in Sparta, where Jessica manages daily operations. When they’re not working, the couple enjoys quiet time at home with their two dogs and two cats, along with camping trips, concerts, and spending time together as a family.

Their participation in Let’s Dance! is especially meaningful because of their appreciation for WCTE PBS and its mission. The Upchurches say the station goes beyond entertainment by supporting education, inspiring curiosity, and connecting communities through local programming and events. By dancing in the fundraiser, they hope to help ensure those services continue for viewers of all ages.

The evening promises plenty of fun for attendees. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:15 p.m., a comedy show at 6:30 p.m., and dancing beginning at 7 p.m. Dinner and show ticket holders will also have the opportunity to meet the dancers before the performances begin and be part of the live televised broadcast.

Those unable to attend in person can still join the excitement. WCTE PBS will air the event live, with additional streaming available on YouTube and Facebook Live. Viewers watching from home will also be able to vote for their favorite dancers.

White County supporters can rally behind Trey and Jessica before the competition even begins by voting for them for the Philanthropic Award. Use the QR code above to help support both the Upchurches and the mission of WCTE PBS.