By Breven Honda
In the last two years, the Mesquite Toes Dance Troupe Champagne Lunch and Fashion Show has sold out and this year appears to be no different.
“We’re expecting that this year, and, of course, certainly hoping so,” said Norma Rife, the director for the Mesquite Toes Dance Troupe. “The reputation, I think, has helped and it’s becoming quite a fun event.”
The festivities on Sept. 30 begin at 11 a.m. and run until 2 p.m. at 1880 Grille at Conestoga Golf Course off Falcon Ridge Parkway.
The theme for this year’s event is “Gotta Dance” from Gene Kelly’s “Singing In the Rain.”
Some of the entertainment includes the Troupe’s Tap Team dancing to “Tap Your Troubles Away” followed by local entertainer, Cary Phillip, singing some songs from that era, including, “Stepping Out With My Baby” and “Cheek to Cheek.”
That will lead to lunch and the fashion show.
The fashion show will feature nearly two dozen different fashions to highlight the day’s events.
“It gets better and better every year,” Rife said. “The merchants are so fun to work with, and they actually look forward to it each year. We have eight local merchants now and we have both male and female models. We will showcase over 20 different fashions, from dressing and casual ensembles. We always are the first to show the new fall line of golf attire from Falcon Ridge. So, I think we’ll have a little bit for everybody.”
Rife said the fashion show is her favorite part due to the excitement and the reward after all the planning.
“It’s been surprisingly fun for me only because there’s so much work that goes into it, that by the time the show comes around, I’m like so many other people,” said Rife, who’s been part of the planning process for the last three years. “I’m excited, have nervous energy and very tired. Then when the show itself comes on, it’s so much fun that I forget about all the hard work.”
The fashion show is complimented by raffle and door prizes for those in attendance.
Prizes range from baskets to leisure activities to ensure everyone wins something and not leave empty-handed.
“We will have a golf and dining package, we’ll have spa, we’ll have massage and pedicure certificates,” Rife said. “We always have wines in our baskets, restaurant gift cards, flowers, candy, car care packages. We also give away door prizes so everybody can go home with something. We’ll have a take home gift for everyone, too.”
Those who want tickets can contact Bernie at (541) 905-6194. People can also reserve tables for six or eight guests as well if they want to go in a group.
Tickets can also be purchased at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center or from any Mesquite Toes Dance Troupe member. The Mesquite Fine Arts Center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
