Mary Pensel demonstrates the waltz technique to boys at Jackson High School. Jackson USA/Fred Lynch

Jackson High School students are learning the graceful flowing movements of ballroom dancing. Granted, the moves probably won't be used with much of today's music, but these students are preparing for something else.

Saturday, April 17, the Jackson High School Jazz Band will be hosting a Big Band Gala in the high school gymnasium from 7:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. This is the second year for the gala and coordinator Pat Schwent is expecting another large turnout.

"There were so many people last year, I didn't know where we'd put them all," said Schwent. "There were people who came and just sat in the bleachers to watch, too."

The students enjoy dressing up for the event and they don't seem to mind coming to school at 7:30 in the morning to practice their dancing. Mary Pensel, who competes in various types of dance, is leading the students in their instruction.

Schwent was looking for a way to bridge the generation gap and thought a big band gala sounded like a good idea.

"We have people there from their teens to their 90s. The students are really amazed at what some of the older people can do," said Schwent.

Unlike sporting events where most adults are just spectators, the gala allows everyone to get involved.

"Dressing up and demonstrating what you've learned while having a good time makes everyone feel better about themselves," said Schwent.

News of the gala has traveled down to the middle school level. Students are giving up some of their free time at lunch to come to the band room to learn the waltz and other ballroom dances under the direction of Ellen Lukens.

"When I walked in the middle school and heard the music, I couldn't believe the students were waltzing," said Schwent. The middle school students will be invited to the gala this year, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Schwent's high school jazz band will be providing the majority of the music at the April 17 gala. "These kids aren't ready for an entire night of playing so we have a little help," said Schwent.

Jerry Ford's Combo from Cape will play during the student band's breaks. John Quinn, a member of the combo, has also provided the jazz band with some of his arrangements.

Tickets for the event are available at Jackson Medicap Pharmacy, Main Street Fitness, Schapers IGA, Country Mart and Shivelbine's Music in Cape, or may be purchased at the door for $5. Remember, this is a dress-up event, no torn jeans and T-shirts allowed.