Grant Pauly

For many people, dancing often comes after a few beers. But for Grant Pauly, dancing was a staple long before beer came along.

Pauly, founder and brewmaster of Sheboygan-based 3 Sheeps Brewing Company, will return to his roots when he takes to the Weill Center stage for the Movers & Shakers Gala.

For much of his youth, Pauly danced, learning tap, jazz, ballet and some couple dancing that included swing, ballroom and others. When it was time to pick between dance and high school sports, Pauly opted for athletics, leaving dance behind.

"It was a big part of my life," Pauly said. But, that was 20 years ago. So will he experience some muscle memory?

"I'm really just hoping the muscles come back period," Pauly said with a laugh. "As we get into these first lessons, we'll see if it comes back. We're going to do a swing or cha-cha, so I don't know if a whole lot of what I used to do will be applicable. I think I'll be starting very green."

"It is going to be fun dancing with a professional and seeing how far we can push this routine."

Lakeland approached the popular brewery about providing a dancer for the Gala, and Pauly said they were happy to join the party.

"We've interacted a lot with Lakeland in the past, and this sounded like fun," Pauly said. "Once we understood what the proceeds were supporting and how many people this would help, it became a very easy decision."

Don't expect the 3 Sheeps Taproom at 1837 North Ave. in Sheboygan to suddenly become a ballroom. Pauly loves what he's doing and where he's doing it.

Growing up, his family was in the concrete business, and while he appreciated the small business, he didn't see it as his future. He purchased a small brew pub in Sheboygan, and the rest, to the delight of beer enthusiasts, is history.

"I still marvel that I get to make beer for a living," Pauly said. "Our brewery is here because this community has supported us so incredibly. Without the support of everyone here, we would not be where we are. This is an opportunity to give back."

Grant's partner is Suzana Gossett.