Girls in princess dresses and boys in tuxedos will take centre stage in High River as the Spring Ball takes place on Saturday, March 10th.

For eight weeks 17 couples have been learning proper etiquette and ballroom dancing.

Participants Sydney Gataiant and Jayden Dautremont both liked learning the ballroom dances.

"I've learned so much from my peers and the teachers and how to publicly speak without being so nervous. That was my main goal," said Gataiant.

Dautremont added learning how to properly shake a hand was important.

"Look them in the eye when you are going in for the hand shake, don't look at the hand. Just simple stuff," said Dautremont.

Participants Faith Terry and Dylan Perrett have also learned a lot in the program.

"How to present ourselves is something that is really important, that they've taught us," said Perrett.  

Terry added the program has helped her to talk to strangers and has gotten her out of her comfort shell.

Participants Clodagh Parras and Everest Johnson have learned some important lessons.

"I've noticed throughout the program, the dinner and these interviews now, my social skills and how I talk to others has really improved," said Johnson.

Parras adds she is a lot more confident than she was going into the program.

"That is going to help me later in life."

The day gets underway with the Judges Reception at 12:30 p.m. followed by individual interviews with the judges.

They dance for the seniors at Sunrise Terrace, with seniors also coming over from the Medicine Tree Manor, at 7 p.m.

Finally the Ball starts at 8 p.m. with the awards at 11 p.m.

Grade 11 students that live in High River or attend school in the community can take part in the eight week program.

Tickets are available at the door.