NORWICH – Those who consider fashion, red carpet events and the concept of high style to be unheard of in Chenango County are in for a big surprise this weekend as Phoenix Project Dance prepares to hold its 2nd annual “Fashion Night Out.”

Kicking off at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Benedict Corporation, the fashion show and gala will feature a variety of local talent – including modern and high fashion, food, art and dance – all in an effort to raise local residents’ awareness of the area’s diverse stylistic offerings, according to function chairperson Michael Perkins. Proceeds from the gala will aid in funding Phoenix Project Dance for the 2011-2012 performance season.

Perkins said the event is all about highlighting local businesses and getting the community involved, as they’re the real reason Phoenix Project Dance calls this area home.

“The community is so supportive and they’ve always been very helpful to us,” said Perkins. “We really take a lot of pride in the community.”

Combining the sophistication of fashion with the sleek styling of the 2011 line of Benedict’s automobiles and trucks, the gala will kick-off with a cocktail hour before moving into the showroom for the fashion show itself. The event will feature complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and a Chinese auction, which will include gift certificates for health and beauty items and visits to local health and day spas.