Nikon D5100 or D7000

[cbear]

I am relatively new to photography. I went to my local camera store and inquired about the Nikon D5100 and the Nikon D7000. The staff wasn't overly helpful. I was told to buy the D7000 because it was a better camera with a better lens, nothing else. I can buy the D51000 and save some money to buy an even better lens.
My wife owns a dancing school and we take pictures for her recital book and web site. I know that the D7000 has alot more features, a better prizm..... I also know that it's the same sensor and processing technology. I will be renting lenses to get good shots of the recital due to the lighting.
Is it worth the extra money to get the D7000 over the D5100?

Shot this with my Sony Alpha 200 and a 55-200mm Lens
http://www.mdtdance.com/albums/album...75/5240816.htm