Benedicts Ballroom Dance Club celebrates 80 years on Saturday in Saratoga Springs

Four people posing — PHOTOGRAPHER: - -

Members of The Benedicts Ballroom Dance Club pose during a recent outing. The club will host an 80th Anniversary Gala on Saturday in Saratoga Springs (Provided photo)

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Couples will be able to dance the evening away this Saturday as The Benedicts Ballroom Dance Club hosts its 80th Anniversary Gala in Saratoga Springs.

The night, titled “The Way We Were,” will include several different types of dance, including waltz, foxtrot and bachata; live music by The Georgie Wonders Band; and fine food and drinks.

“We’re looking back to what we were 80 years ago,” said The Benedicts co-president Jane Crandell.

The Benedicts, a not-for-profit formal dinner and dance club, came to the Capital Region in the 1940s. The group was originally established for married couples only. Now, the group stresses that dance couples are not exclusive to romantic partners, but can also include friends and even individuals who don’t mind dancing with someone new.

“Everybody has an opportunity,” said Dan Crandell, the other co-president.

Saturday’s event will also feature two showcase performances, memorabilia from the group’s history and a champagne toast. Guests are expected to wear formal attire, such as tuxedos or floor-length gowns.

“It’s like going to the prom again,” Jane Crandell said.

The Benedicts hope that the gala, which will take place at Canfield Casino, will encourage people to potentially become a member in the future. The Crandells emphasized that anyone is welcome to join The Benedicts community. Currently, the club has over 60 member couples, ranging from those in their 20s up to their 80s.

“The dancing community is very open and friendly,” Dan Crandell said.

Even those with two left feet can find their place in the organization.

“You don’t have to be a Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to be in our club,” Jane Crandell said. “If you’re not the greatest dancer, you can still enjoy a wonderful evening with friends and socializing.”

The Benedicts’ 80th Anniversary Gala will be held at Canfield Casino in Saratoga Springs on Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.