From an early age, Mike stood out—not just for his height but for his gracious manner and genuine interest in the people around him.
Mike Balara
From an early age, Mike stood out—not
just for his height but for his gracious manner and genuine
interest in the people around him.
Michael Robert Balara was born on August 13, 1944, in New Jersey, into a loving household with parents Martha and James Balara. He grew up in Runnemede, NJ. He had one older sister, Delores, and a younger brother, James.
Mike Balara and Barbara Levick
After years of watching, with the encouragement from his older sister Delores, he went to the show. It took five days sitting in the bleachers before he got up enough nerve to ask Barbara Levick to dance. They did a fast dance, then another
Barbara asked him where he lived and went to school. Mike told her he lived in Runnemeade, New Jersey and would be returning to Trenton High School in the fall.
Barbara took him over and intoduced him to Walt Gryzelak and Pat Molittieri. The following Monday he asked Molittieri to dance. Pat accepted and would become one of his favorite partners.
Mike Balara and Carole Scaldeferri
The next May founded Mike back on American Bandstand. When he returned in the fall, Mike was greeted warmly and began making new friends that included Frani Giordano, Carole Scaldeferri, Betty Romantini, the Jimenez sisters among others.
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Mike became a Regular on the show—meaning he danced almost daily during live tapings. His favorite partners included Barbara Levick, Carmen Jimenez, Carole Scaldeferri, and Frani Giordano. With Frani, he entered the 1961 Pony Dance Dance Contest. They won it along with 1961 Ford Sunliner converibles.
Mike Balara and Arlene Sullivan
After the contest, Mike was often seen paired with Betty Romantini, Arlene Sullivan, and others.
After American Bandstand Mike, he didn’t chase fame. He chose a quieter path but one no less important. He went on to serve as Director of the IDRC (Intoxicated Driver Resource Center) of Burlington County.
Mike Balara and Ed Kelly
.He didn’t often return to Bandstand reunions, but when he did, he was remembered fondly. Alongside Eddie Kelly—his lifelong friend—Mike remained a beloved figure in the memories of countless fans.
He lived in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, near his family, staying close to his roots. While some Bandstand alumni pursued showbiz or the stage, Mike made his impact in more grounded ways.
Mike Balara passed away suddenly on November 11, 2001, at the age of 57 due to a brain aneurysm.
