Couple No. 56

Dancers' Names: Howard Cole & Gretta Daere

Howard Cole and Gretta Daere grew up outside of Philadelphia (Schwenksville, to be exact) in the type of families where there was enough wealth that necessitated nothing by way of training in any profession. Howard and Gretta were raised to look good at social functions, which they did very well. It was at these functions where they met, fell in love, and, eventually, where Howard proposed.

Unfortunately, the Depression hit prior to Howard’s proposal, and his declaration of love was not accompanied by the traditional engagement ring. Their families’ wealth had dwindled, and Howard (always a dreamer) decided that he and Gretta should use the ballroom dancing skills cultivated at their many social functions to become professional ballroom dancers. Gretta (always a dreamer, as well) poured the last of her money into supporting this dream. With no money, no success as professional dancers, and no ring, Gretta finally put her foot down and made it clear that an engagement ring was a necessity if Howard wanted to continue as her fiancé.

And thus, their lives hang in the balance. Howard’s dream of marrying his true love (and Gretta’s dream of a diamond on her finger) depends on the couple’s ability to win the Steel Pier dance marathon. Fortunately, they both still have just enough innocence left to truly believe that winning is the only possible outcome.

The roles of Howard Cole and Gretta Daere will be played by Charles Wilder and Jeanette Gruttadauria.