The 17th annual Womanless Beauty Pageant is planned for March, and the program is in need of contestants.

The Nansemond River Pilot Club event benefits the American Cancer Society. It features men dressing as women and strutting their stuff on the runway, modeling sportswear and formal wear, performing a talent and answering interview questions.

It raises money through ticket sales, sponsorships, a silent auction and donations made to vote for the People’s Choice contestant.

“We are in dire need of contestants,” said Becky Adams, a member of the Pilot Club. “We have none. We’ve had a few guys that are thinking about it.”

The program usually draws between eight and 12 contestants. Adams said it’s usually easy to convince men to participate.

“It’s such a good cause,” she said. “It’s not necessarily the fact that you’re dressing up as a woman, but you’re dressing up for the American Cancer Society. Many people have been affected by cancer. This pageant helps raise money to hopefully one day find a cure.”

Dinner at the event will once again be provided by Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Tickets go on sale Feb. 1. The event will take place March 11 at Liberty Baptist Church, 116 Romans Road.

“It’s affected my immediate family, so if we can get as much help from the community to help us, it will help the American Cancer Society,” Adams said. “It’s just a good time.”

Contact Adams at becky@suffolkinsurance.com for more information on being a contestant.