Florence Henderson Gets Ready to Go Dancing

Florence Henderson has been one of America’s most popular entertainers for over 50 years, thanks to her stage work in such musicals as Fanny and South Pacific and her television roles, most iconically, Carol Brady on The Brady Bunch. Henderson will be on the small screen once again on Monday, September 20 as a celebrity contestant on the 11th season of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars. The always-gracious 76-year-old actress took some time from her busy schedule to answer some of TheaterMania’s questions about this new challenge.

THEATERMANIA: Why did you want to be on Dancing With the Stars?
FLORENCE HENDERSON: I have been a fan of the show since the very first day. I love to watch dancers and love to dance.

TM: How do you think your musical theater training has prepared you for this experience?
FH: My experience has given me a strong foundation and the training has ingrained in me a work ethic that I am very proud of today.

TM: What is it like working with your partner, Corky Ballas?
FH: He is a dream come true. And isn’t he just gorgeous!

TM: Which of the famed DWTS dances are you most looking forward to doing?
FH: I am looking forward to all of them — but especially the Cha Cha

TM: I know you just worked with former DTWS contestant Marissa Jaret Winokur in Love, Loss, and What I Wore. Did she — or any of the other former contestants — give you advice or encouragement?
FH: Yes, Marissa said “Mole Skin, Mole Skin, Mole Skin!” Leeza Gibbons also sent a very nice note of encouragement and support.

TM: How have you kept in such great physical shape all these years?
FH: I have always exercised, eaten well, and I’ve taken lots of vitamins. I have also been doing Pilates for the last few years.

TM: If you win Dancing With the Stars, where will you put your Mirrorball trophy?
FH: It will be put in plain view, so I can see it every time I walk into my home!