FARMINGTON — A Hollywood dress-up dance planned for Feb. 3 to raise funds for fuel oil assistance has raised $1,450 from ticket sales and donations.

The dance begins at 6:30 p.m. at the University of Maine at Farmington’s North Dining Hall.

More than 15 Franklin County community groups and concerned individuals have already committed financial resources and other assistance to this dance and evening of entertainment, organizers said.

Spearheaded by Western Maine Community Action and Franklin Area Ecumenical Heat, the dance is raising funds from advance ticket sales and contributions from individuals and organizations such as Rotary and Hight Chevrolet Buick GMC.

“We are anticipating a major, well-attended midwinter celebration to address a crisis in our community,” Fenwick Fowler, executive director of WMCA, said.

Despite above normal winter temperatures, the fuel oil assistance fund has been hit this year by a perfect storm of events. Federal funds have been cut back significantly. Fuel oil prices have been rising. The continued weak economy has taken a toll on more families and individuals, organizers said.

The event will feature jazz and rock music by the local dance band, Shepherd’s Pie. There will be special guest performances by the Mount Blue Voices, an award-winning high school a cappella ensemble, and the Teacher’s Lounge Mafia, a comedy improv group. Tom Saviello will serve as master of ceremonies.

“Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite Hollywood star,” Jodie Gunther, one of the event organizers, said. “While dress-up is not required, anyone who does will get a free, non-alcoholic beverage.”

The dance will feature modestly priced on-site baby-sitting provided by UMF honors students.

Roving paparazzi and “movie stars” or costumed high school and college students will attend. Entrance is on a red carpet with the opportunity to be photographed.

The Outskirts on Main Street in Farmington is offering a 10 percent discount on the purchase or rental of costumes for the event.

In addition to regularly priced tickets of $10, organizers are selling a select number of VIP tickets at $25. VIP ticket holders will enjoy a reserved table seating, free hot hors d’oeuvres and a complimentary drink of their choice at the cash bar.

Tickets are available at Devaney Doak and Garrett Booksellers, the Calico Patch and at the door on the evening of the event.