When a ma-a-an loves a woma-an ... he plays her some Percy Sledge.

At the Bell Bottom Ball, soul lovers can do one better and catch the singer live.

At the ball, a fundraiser for the Children's Advocacy Center of the Roanoke Valley, guests will shake their groove thing, get their fill of food and drink — and for those sporting their vintage wear, there will be a costume contest.

Costume dress is optional (you may come casual), but breaking out the bell bottoms may be worth your while — prizes include lava lamps and smiley-face lamps, of course.

There will also be a dance competition featuring six local celebrities paired with instructors from Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Roanoke.

Although Sledge hails from Alabama, several members from his backup band, Sunset Drive, are from the area. That local connection helped bring the soul singer to town. Sunset Drive will play two sets, one with Sledge.

Janice Davidson, executive director of the center, is hoping for 400 people to attend.

"It'll be a lot of fun," she said. "We have a huge dance floor, lots of room for everybody to dance."

When: Friday, 7 to 11 p.m.

Where: Holiday Inn Tanglewood

Tickets: $75 includes buffet and two drink tickets. To purchase, call 344-3579, visit cacroanoke.org or go to Arthur Murray Dance Studio on Starkey Road or all Davidsons locations.

— Orr Shtuhl