NORWICH – An internationally acclaimed Norwich based dance troupe will bring local businesses together while entertaining scores of the area's fashion conscious – or anyone just looking for something unique and entertaining to do – this weekend. Their show is an effort to generate visibility in the community while raising funds for the operation of the organization.

The Phoenix Dance Project is a dance company that travels to all points of the US and abroad, demonstrating their brand of talent, discipline and commitment to the arts to countless groups of audiences of all ages.

In an economic climate where funding for the arts often goes by the wayside, The Phoenix Dance Project continues to offer its dancers a living wage, which is the result of both strategic financial foresight of management, coupled with quality performances and sweat equity that the dancers themselves put into their craft.

One way the dance company – which has dancers from several states commuting to Norwich on a weekly basis – is able to keep on dancing is through the utilization of fund raising and benefits such as the Fashion Night Out. The fundraiser, now in its fourth go-round, has proven to be a success for local businesses and Phoenix alike.

“All of the proceeds go directly to Phoenix Project Dance, which is expanding more every season,” said Mikey Perkins, Executive Director. “We just finished up a show in Ottawa last week and we're constantly performing; so it's always nice to get a fundraiser in there – and we're very fortunate that we are able to hold it right here in our hometown.”

The Fashion Night Out gives the community a chance to meet the faces that are often talked about among the community but, due to the nature of the rigorous performance schedule, often find themselves on the road.

In addition to reinforcing Phoenix' visibility within the community, the event serves to bring folks out for a fun filled evening that's tailored to mimic a genuine NYC meat-packing district runway expo.