The New York Dance Festival is known for bringing amazing talent into the area, so why not officially kick things off the only way worthy of the entertainment that local audiences will get over its two weeks.

Tonight's annual “Song and Dance Man Gala” will do just that featuring some classic favorites from the Rat Pack era with singing and dancing from industry professionals, said Brian Morey, headlining performer in the gala and director of production and multimedia for the festival.

“(The performance) is a Broadway style cabaret focused on the music of the Rat Pack and the greatest songs from the golden age of the 20th century,” Morey said alluding to the music of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin.

Beside Morey, who hails from New York City, he said headliners will also include Alexander Cowings, a Broadway tapdancing sensation; Thomas Warfeild, an internationally renowned performing artist, dancer and singer; and Sean McCloud, New York Institute of Dance and Education president, multi-award-winning international producer and choreographer.

“They're all absolutely amazing,” he said.

The evening will include cocktails, a full-scale formal dinner by the Owasco Country Club executive chef followed by an “evening to dance and sing the night away that'll keep everyone entertained,” Morey said.

Cocktails will start being served at 7 p.m. and the show will start approximately at 8:30 p.m. and should last about an hour.

Staff writer Laura Boyce can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 236 or at laura.boyce@lee.net

If you go

What: “Song and Dance Man Gala”

When: Tonight; Cocktails and dinner at 7 p.m., performance around 8:30 p.m.

Where: Owasco Country Club, 6750 E. Lake Road

Cost: $100

For details: Call 252-4420 or visit www.nyide.com