Used for everything from self-expression to community bonding, dancing has been part of humans’ lives for millennia. Modern ballroom dancing, however, has a briefer history. Originating in the early 20th century, ballroom dancing is generally considered to encompass just a few of the many dance styles. Some examples are the foxtrot, the tango, the waltz and the rumba. There are many organizations that compete in these dances, but just dancing socially is also popular. In Fayetteville, the Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers have offered the community a way to learn and dance ballroom socially for 20 years.

The Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers was established on March 2, 1993 when they held their very first dance in the Prince Charles Hotel. Since then, the group has grown tremendously from the original 12 members. The Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers has three locations. The Highland Country Club, Roland’s Dance Studio and the Bragg Officers Club. The group hosts dances monthly. This month, however, they will hold a very special dance to celebrate their 20th anniversary.

Dr. Andrew Ziegler, the president of the Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers explained, “People should expect to have fun, to hear good music and to dance if they want to. Some people don’t want to dance every song, some do. It is a good and pleasant opportunity to dance in a great first-class venue and to spend time with friends whether they are new or old. At this dance we also have a live out-of-town band, which we don’t normally do.” Most dance groups in Fayetteville participate in competitions and require training. The Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers welcome people of all levels of experience to their dances.

“There is no judgment, no contest, just fun,” Ziegler explains, “My wife Kalli wanted to learn to ballroom dance for years. Eventually, I got her a Christmas gift of a beginners package of lessons at Roland’s Dance Studio. That was many years ago. We enjoyed the lessons and through the studio we met members of the Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers and they invited us to join.”

The dances that are done at the monthly dances are the foxtrot, waltz, swing, tango, cha cha, rumba and the shag. Ballroom dancing has many benefits. Not only is it exercise and a great way to be social, the monthly dances also provide a venue to learn from professionals regardless of experience level. Zeigler also explains that learning to dance and attending these dances allows him to spend quality time with his wife.

The Anniversary Dance is on Sept. 21 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Highland Country Club, 105 Fairway Dr. Reservations are required and tickets are $40 for members and $50 for guests. Formal attire is required and the Duke Ladd Band will perform.

For reservation sheets or for more information on the Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers, visit www.capefearballroomdancers.org/index.html.

Photo: Dancers hit the floor to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers