January, 1998 Reviews
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The Year Started With a Bang!



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Review of Dance Events During January, 1998

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DANCE REVIEWS




Friday, December 26, 1997

We joined the gang at America for a great time. Fortunately, it was the very last of the "extended hours". Next Friday, we go back to 9:00 - Midnight. The band was in great form, but we missed Brent Sessions on tenor. On the other hand, we were very glad to hear "Hawaiian War Chant". The jam went very well and it looked like everyone had a great time. Debra Sternberg adds this:

From: Debra Sternberg

One more little parenthetical note: we were delighted to have Rob Bamberger of Hot Jazz Saturday Night at America this past Friday. Rob FINALLY joined his petite and adorable wife, Chris, who's been trying to get him to come out for quite a while. I was determined not to gush, "Oh, I've been listening to you for YEARS!" at him, and then I got distracted and never saw him again that evening! It's always fun to meet the face that goes with the voice on the radio. Anyway, I do think Rob is really fabulous and HAVE been listening to him for years. I really appreciate the information he delivers along with the songs. I hope he stays on the radio for eons to come.

Love and kisses to all. Here's a little mushy New Year's message: we've got the most wonderful, warmest, friendliest group of dancers. You all make this a constant joy. My sincere love and best wishes to all, with the universal wish that we all do, indeed, keep dancing in the new year.
---Auntish Deb

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Saturday December 27, 1997

This was the regular "Double Shot of TCO" weekend, featuring the Cunningham Band at a very cold Spanish Ballroom. Normally, the cold doesn't bother us, but the snow during the day plus the holiday seems to have scared off a number of dancers, leaving fewer bodies to heat the ballroom. Brent Sessions was back, and raised the temperature several degrees with his solos.

Alas, the cold seems to have had an effect on the jam. Several couples, including We, "Crashed and Burned". It was not a pretty jam. Perhaps, we are getting soft due to the heated environment at America on Fridays.

While we were freezing at Glen Echo, Dan Dailey was dancing in Detroit. Don't get your hopes up too high, but there is swing dancing in Detroit. Thanks to Dan Dailey, we have the names of two clubs where black and white shoes can actually be seen! Also, you might try these phone numbers:

  • Detroit Swing Dance Club (313)-584-8443
  • Great Lakes Swing Dance Club (313)-695-1724
  • Michigan Swing Dance Productions (810)-694-7625

Dancing in Detroit
By: Daniel N. Daley

Club Review: The Velvet Lounge, Pontiac, Michigan Tel.: (248) 334-7411

There is not a lot of swing going on in the Detroit area, although the community that is there seems pretty healthy. They brought Steven Mitchell in for workshops this fall, and Frankie Manning will be there in the spring (see Frank & Carol's web-page). Most of the "regular" dancing seems to be concentrated at two clubs: Clutch Cargo, and the Velvet Lounge. The people I spoke with seemed to think that the Velvet Lounge was the better place - so that's were I went.

The Velvet Lounge is located on Saginaw (on the corner of Water) in downtown Pontiac (for those who haven't been to Pontiac in a while it may come as a surprise, but this strip has really turned into a happening place, with several clubs catering to the young crowd).The area is very well lit and bustling, and I felt completely comfortable in a part of town that was once pretty desolate. There is valet parking, but there is also a large public lot right across the street with evening parking for only $2. Inside the (optional) coat-check will set you back another $2, and cover is $3. Drink prices seemed average, but you can also get free ice-water (I didn't see any pitchers). The club is generally narrow, with the dance floor near the front, opposite the bar. In the back room there are a couple of pool tables and some couches. There is also a downstairs with restrooms, a couple more pool tables, another small bar, and a cigar humidor built into one corner.

The scene in this place is a lot of fun, although I will warn you: bring your eye-drops, and bring your earplugs. Between the cigarettes and the cigars of the lounge lizards my eyes were definitely stinging by the end of the evening. Also, they play the music much too loud - especially if you are anywhere on the dance-floor (imagine dancing two feet from the speakers at Glen Echo with Daryl Davis banging away). You can't talk without virtually yelling directly into someone's ear.

As I said, the scene is the thing - the majority of the crowd is not there to dance. Mostly people seem to get spiffed out in bar/lounge clothes for this place, so vintage would fit right in (yes, I did see black-and-whites on some feet). The club is laid out with the bar parallel to the dance floor, with a sort of low wall/stand-up bar in between. This guarantees that there will be a lot of people watching the dancing, even if they are not dancing themselves (the dancers are almost part of the entertainment).

OK, you ask, what about the dancing? The Floor: the dance floor is small, but fits a decent sized crowd (it's a bit larger than half the size of the Vienna Grill floor, complete with pillar in the middle). I never felt it was too packed to go out and dance. It was also never seemed empty, although there was usually ample space to dance in (the fish-flips I saw some people doing, however, were probably not advisable). In the middle of the evening (say 11:00 to 1:00), and for good tunes it did get pretty packed.

The Music: the music (apart from being loud) was DJ, and constant. They played a good mix of fast and medium tempo swing tunes, with an occasional slow one or two thrown in. There was absolutely no break between songs - the DJ cued directly from the end of one to the start of the next. There was no jam, although they did play a rather unusual recording of "Sing, Sing, Sing" (sort of the "extended club version"). A lot of the music was either unfamiliar to me, or a version I had never heard before, although it was almost all definitely swinging.

The Dancers: this was no Glen Echo, but there were definitely lots of dancers in evidence. We may have been outnumbered by the lounge lizards, but there was no shortage of people there to dance, too. Quite a few were really quite good, and those who weren't were at least eager and willing, and were trying to swing (not the typical nightclub dancing). I ended up teaching basic six-count to three women who had never danced swing before, but all seemed pretty interested. On the downside, several people seemed to be doing almost hustle moves. They look great, but the leads are very different; a number of women I danced with seemed to suffer from spaghetti arm syndrome. A number of people are getting into Lindy, although I was told (and saw) that Jitterbug is still more common.

The Schedule: I'm not sure when the place opens, but there is more space to dance early or very late. I got there around 9:30 and there was a good crowd, but ample space to dance. Closing (on Friday at least) is 2:00am. Friday night is swing night. Saturday is a mix of swing, salsa, and tango. I think that there are swing lessons on Monday, but I'm not sure. Also, I understand that they get a live band in sometimes, but I don't know how often, or what kind of music.

The real fun and encouraging thing about my evening at the Velvet Lounge was that it indicated that, in Pontiac at least, swing had made it to the mainstream club scene. The crowd was a range of ages, but mostly young, mid-twenties (it did not have the feel of a college crowd). Tina and Emily of LBE fame would have loved this place. I'd give it two thumbs up; if you are ever in Detroit on a Friday, give it a try.
---Dan Daley

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Sunday December 28, 1997

We made our first visit to Sunday night lindy at America and we were very impressed. There is a large group of enthusiastic people who are taking the time to perfect their moves. Bernstein's selections of CDs were absolutely outstanding. We stayed for the full two hours of dancing and picked up several new moves from the crowd. I was very impressed that our new dancers are hard at work on something OTHER than aerials. You might want to take a look at Rachel's article in the Dance Forum about a scene where people skip over dancing to get right to aerials...

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Monday December 29, 1997

Everything was dark on Monday

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Tuesday December 30, 1997

Everything was dark on Tuesday

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Wednesday December 31, 1997 New Years Eve

By now, everyone has heard about our misfortune on New Years eve. We attended another fabulous party at Jenny and Mike's. The first ill omen was when I spilled a bit of Susan Lusi's Rhode Island bakery pizza on my dress shirt. The party was absolutely grand --- everyone looked wonderful and we had a great time clowning around and taking photos. I was sniffling away, and was depending on Sheer Force of Will to get us through our planned evening: we were going to do at least one dance at ALL the venues, including: Rockin Bones at Talliano's, Tom Cunningham at Old Ebbitt, Doc Scantlin at Clydes and end up at Glen Echo. Well, we left the party and got to Talliano's; Ed and Robbie had forgotten to tell management that we were coming, so there was some dispute with the gate keeper. I felt my knees get weak and suggested that we go to my house and wait until 11:30 and then go to Glen Echo. My next memory is of Carole pointing to the "ball" going down during Dick Clark's New Years Party. Carole says it was a race between the thermometer hitting 103 and the ball hitting the ground. In a bizarre twist of events, Dick Clark had the Squirrel Nut Zippers on his show and people were doing Lindy Hop. My next memory is at about 3:30 pm the next day. So, we are going to have to let others tell the tale of New Years Eve. We start with our favorite New York correspondent, Jennifer Comar:

From: Jennifer Comar

Hi Frank and Carole!
I don't know about you, but I am extremely superstitious when it comes to New Year's eve. I am convinced that whatever you end up doing on that one night sets the tone for the entire year, (case in point- last year I went to see the Big Apple Lindy Hoppers perform at First Night NYC, several months later, I had become a member of the group, etc.) Things in NYC were shaping up to be a rerun of last year. Although a lot of the crowd were going downtown to celebrate at Lanskey's Lounge, the only affordable dancing venue was at First Night NYC, which, unfortunately is always a madhouse because New Year's is the one night when the non-dancing world decides that they can dance. I toyed with the idea of laying out some major money for the Supper Club, but as we moved closer to the end of December, I was becoming more and more inclined to just spend New Year's at home on the couch with a good movie. Luckily, Debra Sternberg picked up on my melancholy mood, and worked very hard to convince me to spend New Year's down in the DC area. She said to me " all the guys down here love to dance with you and you'll spend the evening in non-threatening, open arms"......what more could a girl want from life?

I had been planning to visit Tricia Reneau the weekend after New Year's, and she was very happy to open her home up to me earlier so that I would have a place to stay on the big night. My original plan was to dance with the crowd at Glen Echo, but at the last minute, (literally, Wednesday afternoon), Tricia was able to secure a couple of reservations at the Landsdowne Resort where she was performing that night with Bud Forrest and his "String of Pearls" Orchestra. So instead of the Spanish Ballroom sans heat I had a black tie, five course dinner, with dancing and a floor show after.

My escort for the evening was the always dashing Daniel Fierer, who took the opportunity to pull out a very nice vintage tux , (stamped 1935 on the inside pocket tag). Unfortunately, he took so long to get dressed that he was late in picking me up, and we made it just as the cocktail hour was coming to a close. I had on a black ottoman dancing dress, (I think circa late forties, early fifties), multi strand pearls and a georgette shawl, and, of course, ivory gloves and an embroidered bag to top it all off. I have to say, being a grown up is really a lot of fun.

Anyway, there was an open bar to start, along with a spread of delicious hors d'ouevres that I sampled after I ditched the gloves at our table. There was a bit of confusion about which seats would provide the best view of the band, but after politely making the other couple at the table move over one place, we were settled to our satisfaction. The hotel staff was extremely helpful, and they delivered some safety pins I had brought for Tricia up to her dressing room so that I wouldn't miss the first course at dinner. The entire band was onstage at first, then after a break, they came out with a small ensemble to play during the dinner hour. It was a nice pattern of eating, then dancing while they cleared the table, which continued throughout the meal. The food was absolutely amazing, here is the menu so that you can pretend for a minute that you were there:

  1. Seared Sea Scallops
    Stoneground Yellow Grits with Shrimp
  2. Cold Potato and Lobster Terrine with Roasted Peppers
    Roasted garlic vinaigrette
    Herb Toast
  3. Intermezzo, (that's the sorbet......)
  4. Grilled Game Hen Stuffed with Wild Mushrooms
    and Cornbread
    Fig Gravy
    Paired with Marinated Beef Tenderloin
    Topped with Truffle Butter
    Yam Hash
  5. Chocolate Mascarpone Mousse
    Timbale
    Brandy - Sour Cherry Coulis

The floor show commenced while the main course was being served. It was an abridged version of the "In the Mood" show that they have been performing around the country. It was very well done, and I especially enjoyed the Andrews Sisters impersonations - they did a great version of "Hold Tight". It took a major amount of willpower to keep us in our seats and off of the dance floor. Then those "Sing, Sing , Sing" drums started and Andy and Tricia came out to do their big, showstopping number. I give Tricia alot of credit - she looked great considering the fact that she had just come back from her vacation the night before, (her car broke down in Tennessee and extended her time away by three days), and she and Andy only had a small amount of time to practice before they took the stage. It was a fun routine - packed with aerials- and they definitely wowed the crowd.

After her performance, Tricia changed into a beautiful blush rayon crepe vintage gown and was surrounded by admirers immediately upon entering the ballroom. When she was finally able to break away, she and Andy joined us at our table. There were centerpieces full of peacock feathers and party favors on every table, so we took turns posing with goofy hats in-between dancing to the orchestra. At the stroke of midnight, there was a champagne toast as streamers fell from the ceiling - which looked great, but made the dance floor a bit treacherous.

The band was super to dance to, and I think they were happy to see us out on the floor, dancing up a storm to every song. At one point in the evening, Andy and I were dancing between the tables because the floor was packed with revelers.. So many people came up to us and complimented us on our dancing - It was nice to know that people appreciated what we were doing in the same way that we appreciated the music we were dancing to. A lot of the crowd was from an older generation, and many of them were very good dancers themselves. I swear there was one couple doing the shag and the balboa. After the band had finished up for the night, we stayed on the dance floor and did a shim sham to the music playing over the sound system. It was hard to stop dancing and end the evening. Tricia and I went around and collected all of the peacock feathers off of the tables as souvenirs, and we both agreed that it was an almost perfect evening. Tricia called it "the New Year's Eve of my dreams....".

We hung out in the hotel lobby for a while after the party, where we were thoroughly amused by the antics of very nice drunk girl. She kept swaying from side to side as she raved about our dancing, and all I could do was watch the wine in her glass move back and forth, almost to the edge and spilling each time, but somehow staying put as she began to lean in the other direction.

I stayed in town through Sunday morning, and very much enjoyed Tricia's kind hospitality and great cooking. She has the coziest little house, and she made me feel very at home. I went to America on Friday night and finally made it to Glen Echo on Saturday, where I got to dance in all of those, "non-threatening, open arms...".
Happy New Year!
Your friend in NYC,
---Jennifer

PS. ask Tricia about Daniel's new canine nickname; it's a good story.

This must have been one heck of an event! Here is Tricia Reneau's version:

From: Tricia Reneau

Elegant. Dreamlike. Glittery. These are just a few words to describe the retro journey of New Year's Eve at Lansdowne Resort. Andy and I had to "work" that evening as part of the entertainment with Bud Forrest and His String of Pearls Orchestra. (If I could get work like that full time, I'd have it made!!)

New Year's Eve has always been an overrated time of year for me. I've dreamed of formal New Year's Eve gatherings complete with big band, sparkling champagne, and confetti. These ideals have proved superficial over the years. Better to stay home and watch Dick Clarke's New Year's Rockin' Eve.

This year changed all that. By 2:00 in the morning, I was completely high from the evening--and it had absolutely nothing to do with the champagne! Lansdowne pulled out all the stops. No detail was spared as the resort turned a ballroom into a 1940's supper club. Light designs in the shapes of flamingoes beamed from the walls, old-fashioned street lamps ringed the dance floor, palm trees graced every corner, and peacock feathers danced among lilies in the table centerpieces.

Although Andy and I did not partake in the five-course meal, it too got rave reviews from our friends, "Dr. Daniel" Fierer and the lovely Jennifer Comar of New York. Indeed, even the working meal supplied to us and the rest of the band was fabulous. During the guest dinner, the band performed its floor show, and Andy and I operated on pure adrenaline to get through our routine of Sing, Sing, Sing (because of the holidays and a car breakdown that left me stranded in Tennessee until New Year's Eve, we hadn't practiced in over a month). Halfway through the performance, I felt my legs begin to burn and wondered if I would make it. That's when I heard enthusiastic hollering coming from Elaine Crosby, a dear friend from my acting class. I could almost picture her standing on her chair waving her stole in the air like some college football cheerleader. When the chips are down, it's that kind of encouragement that pulls you through.

After the show, we changed into formal attire and joined the rest of the dinner party. Our instructions were to dance the rest of the night and occasionally dance with the patrons. Tough job, but someone's got to do it. Of course, Daniel and Jennifer provided excellent partners. We also found the older patrons to be good dancers--no surprise there. One older man, who had fought in WWII, took me out on the dance floor and appeared to lose himself in nostalgia. Wonderful!

Undoubtedly the best part of the evening was the band and the singers themselves. Until Wednesday night, I had never socially danced to Bud Forrest's band--only performed choreographed stage numbers with them. Admittedly, I possess a certain amount of bias, but I have to say Bud Forrest and His String of Pearls Orchestra is THE best big band I have ever heard live. The horn section will knock your socks off. The singers will bring you to tears with one of their heart-wrenching ballads. Even Bud himself had me slack-jawed as he played a mean piano. Moreover, the band's repertoire is dominated by mid-tempo tunes like "A Tisket, A Tasket." It reminded me of dancing in Herrang, Sweden. Nirvana. Total heaven. I had to pinch myself to know I wasn't in a dream. My objective now is to somehow bring this band to play for the Lindy Hop community. We need a swishy affair for springtime, after all.

At the stroke of midnight, shiny streamers and confetti seemed to come out of nowhere and rained down upon us all. In my excitement and enthusiasm not to pass up a single dance, I somehow missed out on the champagne, which was completely consumed. When she wasn't looking, I swiped the rest of Jennifer's glass. Mmmmmm! This was no Safeway special!

My only regret is that more of the Lindy community could not partake in this wonderful gala. As soon as I found out the event had opened to individuals, I sent out a mass email. Most of you already had plans at that point, and I understand New Year's Eve at Glen Echo was a big success. We missed everyone all the same, and just hope we can put together a similar--although slightly less extravagant--event. I've already talked with a few of you who have graciously offered to help. I welcome all such support. Until then, Happy New Year to one and all!
---Tricia

For the crowd that went to Glen Echo, Sue Fedor has this New Years Eve story:

From: Sue Fedor

As I write this, Sasha, the wonder cat, is perched on my shoulder. "Sasha on my shoulders feels like needles...." With thanks to John Denver (moment of silence), my cat still has her claws. She's not a wee cat either, so before my whole left arm goes to sleep....an ode to New Year's Eve, sung to the tune of "Auld Lang Sine" or Auld Lang Cosine, for all you calculus fans out there....

Should fancy places be forgot
Lots of money we could blow
should fancy restaurants be forgot
for the chills of Glen Echo

The chills of Glen Echo, my friends
for Gle-en E-eh-cho
We'll drink our frozen cider yet
at Glen Echo.

Where you can see your breath inside
where the temps are two below
But dancers still sweat anyway
at Glen Echo
At frosty Glen Echo, my friends
at Glen Echo
You'll see your breath and freeze your sweat
at Glen Echo

As per tradition, we kicked the evening off with food and frivolity at Mike and Jen's place. That's where Frank told us (between sniffles) of his plans for the evening... first to see the Bonz at Talianos, then to see Doc Scantlin, then Tom Cunningham, then catch the waltz at Glen Echo. [Editor's note: See above]

You know, New Year's Eve is becoming more of a fashion statement than a dance statement. How many of us out there were in shoes that hurt (because they matched the dress) or wore jewelery that was more expensive than our entire wardrobe? I don't know about you, but my lovely husband almost had a nervous breakdown over his lack of wardrobe options. Luckily, Hechts had an iridescent mauve shirt on sale--perfect for zoot pants. As for me, the collective age of my wardrobe that evening was 102 years old, 'cept for the very uncomfortable shoes. By the way, is it my imagination, or has the floor been waxed lately. It's really slick. I have another theory. With the low humidity, perhaps the "pores" of the wood are closed and the surface is smoother. Or maybe the cat is just cutting off the oxygen to my brain.

Of course, the J Street Jumpers were nattily attired in their OVERCOATS. The balloon drop was spectacular AND despite the big crowd, I didn't get kicked in the ankles at all. Perhaps we were all wearing uncomfortable party shoes.

A whole bunch of folks ended up at our house for coffee and anything warm we could muster. I passed out blankets and pillows, like a stewardess. The topics of conversation were:

  1. What happened to Frank--who was never seen again that evening
  2. Why our house was so cold
  3. Just what makes Cameron so funny?

I am hear to report that in the wee hours of 1998, nobody even remotely thought of resolutions.
---Sue

Cameron Sellers checks in with this account of New Years Eve at Glen Echo:

From: Cameron Sellers

New Year's Eve started at Mike D. and Jen M. house for pre-Glen Echo party. I showed up in my usual vintage costume only to feel under dressed when every one else showed up. Mike and Jen were picture perfect with him in his vintage tux and Jen is a lovely long black dress. I got pictures if any one wants to check them out. Most everyone looked like they stepped right out of a 1940s movie.

As 9:00pm rolled around, everyone migrated over to Glen Echo to dance in the New Year with the J Street Jumpers. The night was freezing but the Washington Swing Dance Committee covered all the windows with plastic to help cut down on the wind and cold. Good call! It took a couple dances and lots of people to warm up.

A few of my friends showed up for the first time. Nat, David, Nat's family from Australia, and Kelli enjoyed watching the dancing. Jeff, Andy, Heather, and I have told them about Lindy Hop but they never actually have seen it, so they were impressed when they did.

As the clock struck midnight, the band played and balloons fell from the ceiling. The evening concluded with waltzes into the early New Year morning. After the dance we went to Steve and Sues and hung out and gossiped. Steve showed us his new computer video of Tom Cunningham that he had edited, and I finally saw the frigerator skits from the Christmas party. I met Misha's friend from Michigan and she told me about the budding Lindy Hop scene at Ann Arbor. Around 3:30am, I left to sleep late into the New Year.

Diane Carroad and Mike Mandel have this view of the evening at Glen Echo:

From: Diane Carroad and Mike Mandel

Hi Frank and Carole,
By now, am sure you have received many reviews of New Year's and Debra's wonderful yellow zoot suit. We noticed your absence (who else would admonish Michael for doing the Charleston to Auld Lang Syne?) but plenty of others sure filled the dance floor, esp in the later hours. I think we got kicked about 9 times -- a record! Although Michael Mandel and I may not have thought we were huge fans of the J Street Jumpers before, we enjoyed them a lot on Dec 31. The loud music did sometimes drown out Marianna Previti (whose vocal chords were probably frozen -- she wore her coat the entire evening). In the heated ladies' room, Marianna mentioned that their CD will be out this year. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves tho there wasn't much room to practice what Jen and Mike had taught us recently . This past Sat at Glen Echo on Jan 3 was much better for that! And the WSDC did a fine job with decorations, balloons, and refreshments.

Chris Cowles was also there:

From: Chris Cowles

The Dance at Glen Echo was a lot of fun. The layout of the place was great, and so were all the munchies that were set out. The music could have been better suited to the Lindy croud, most of it was too slow to do really Jam to.

Ben/Buck's Party

I don'k know many people who will forget this New Years. My brother Steve's car broke down on the way to Ben's house. The car's not dooing so hot. I was persuaded to play my Sax, so me and Tobias jammed for a while. Most of the party moved to Buck's house when a few people started having allergic reactions. At Buck's we proceded to watch movies until early in the morning.
---Chris Cowles (aka SaxMan)

From: Debra Sternberg

Dear Uncle Frankie,
We were all terribly sorry you and Carole were illin' during the New Year's week 'cause you sure missed a lot of fun. I thought the dance at Glen Echo was one of the best we've ever had. WSDC mavens Jenny Manlove and Janice Saylor have the decorating process down to a science, and Gary Edgerton has the balloon thing going like clockwork! Our decorating tasks during the day were swift and fun. I missed Michael and Jenny's now-annual pre-dance gathering because I was at home, taking a nap on the couch with a head full of hot rollers. I hear it was swell and can't wait to see the photos. The dance itself was just an absolute ball and the J Street Jumpers were fantastic. I'm personally kinda hoping that they get to be a NYE institution. I was overjoyed when I found out I didn't have to stick around for clean-up, so I went over to the Devoney's where I, too, wondered why it was so cold. They have helped me reconsider my dream of a wonderful big drafty old house.

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Thursday January 1, 1998

[We have no reviews for this date -- everyone was asleep]
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    Friday January 2, 1998

    Well, I was too sick to go out, so poor Carole had to spend the evening listening to me sniffle when she could have been at America having rich old goats hit on her.

    From: Cameron Sellers

    310 people showed up to listen, watch, and dance to Tom Cunningham. With this many people, the place was hot and the dance floor was crowded. Bad for the dancers but great for the band. It was good to see a great turn out for Tom C.

    Tonight I watched one of the doors and helped collect the $10 cover. It turned out to be a hard job so the hostess have my sympathy. For an hour I chatted with the hostess, watch Carla and Jeff practice their JAM routine and stamped a lot of hands.

    After the my time was up, I participated in the JAM with Sherri, screwed up the shim sham and learned the lock up from Dave Shepardson. It was great to be back at America on Friday after a three week absence.
    ---Cameron Sellers

    From: Chris Cowles

    America was way too crowded tonight. Too many people came to watch this evening. I usually don't have a problem with this, but when they were standing on the dance floor, and they refused to move when asked it got to be to much. By the end of the evening it had cleared out enough to give us some room to move about.
    ---Chris Cowles (aka SaxMan)

    From: Debra Sternberg

    Everyone has heard of the banner night we had at America on Friday January 2, 1998. I could barely believe the count at the end of the night (313 paying guests!!!) and nearly broke into tears, I was so happy for the band. You see, I am convinced that swing dancing will be bigger this time around than it was in the '30s-'40s! It was a great night for the band, and a great night for the restaurant. I was delighted to see that the table area of the restaurant was still nearly full at the end of the evening, too. Management has agreed it's best to plan for a big crowd and then fill tables back in if needed, as opposed to starting with a smaller floor and pushing tables back, but we'll just keep doing what we need to do to keep everyone happy! One note to all us dancers: if you are bothered by people standing on the dance floor and watching, ask them politely to move back. I've done it, and so can you! Also, if some inexperienced dancer is flailing dangerously, find me or Tom and we'll give them a gentle reminder. I want to thank you all for your support at America; the recent news about the uncertainty of Glen Echo reminds us all that we need to support our dance spaces!
    Now, love to all and get out of here.
    ---Auntie Deb

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    Saturday January 3, 1998

    Well, I was sick and tired of spending my days in bed or sniffling at the computer terminal, so Carole helped me to drag myself to Glen Echo to see the New Columbia Swing Band in action. Our review of their December outing was an unqualified rave. Tonight, however, there were some clinkers. First of all, Mr. Guldseth did not bring his tenor sax player that is the dead ringer for Vido Musso (although we have huge compliments for Brooks Tegler!). Second, some eyebrows were raised at the inclusion of "Jailhouse Rock" and "Hello Dolly" in the program. We missed some of the arrangements from the Goodman Sextet tha enthralled the crowd last time. Things were not as "together" this evening. On the other hand, the jam to "Sing, Sing, Sing" was magnificent! Brooks has Krupa's style down cold and the crowd loved it! Our advice for the next NCS program is to get back to Benny Goodman and don't play ANYTHING that was written after 1942. Also --- at the Marshall day celebration, Mr. Guldseth had a piano player who could make his electronic keyboard to sound like a vibraphone and did some really hot Lionel Hampton stuff --- particularly "Flying Home". We would like to hear more of THAT. Another compliment: the music during the breaks was solid gold Goodman. That's what we want!

    From: Cameron Sellers

    After a crowded evening at Americas, it was nice to have lots of space on the dance floor. But hours before the dance, Tom K. showed me the video tape of the shag routine from California. It was awesome and gave new inspiration at a time when I felt I had hit a wall with my dancing on learning new steps. I was ready for Glen Echo.

    The evening was warm and I sweated up a storm dancing to New Columbia Swing. I sweated so much, Gay and Sue refuse to dance with me until I cooled down. The band was good but the pauses were to long. However, this was the first evening that they played music in between the breaks. Smart thinking on their part.

    The JAM was excellent with many people doing great routines. Carla and Jeff looked cool at there with their new aerials. Gay and Dave looked great as usual, and Tom dropped Debra on her butt for second night in a row.

    From: Christy Etcher

    I thought that jamming in front of millions at Glen Echo at the New Year's party would be the greatest experience of the new year, but then...a week later during the jam, Cameron jumped on my back and we ran off together (off the floor, that is). That proved to be even better than entertaining the New Year's crowd!

    From: Mary Pat Cooney

    Dear Frank and Carole,
    I went to see Smokey Joe's Cafe on Saturday, instead of dancing. It was fun, but I wish I had danced.

    A few of the singers were show-stoppers, at moments, and it was fun to see how the choreographer dealt with a mixed bag of movement talent. The familiar tunes were fun to hear, and the less familiar ones were also good. I must confess, I loved the band. I guess that's why I wanted to be dancing. All that old rock'n'roll was perfect for jitterbug, and a little clutch and sway would have been perfect with the ballads.

    The Shimmy number was the killer - and we were seeing an understudy! She was fabulous. Beautiful dancer. Frisky. Sexy. Energetic. The men singers were excellent - I think the show highlighted their talents more than the women's.

    For me, there were some great moments; overall the show was entertaining, but a little flat. Maybe the overdose of Holiday Sweets has dulled my senses. I await the reviews from the rest of the gang.
    ---Mary Pat

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    Sunday January 4, 1998

    From: Cameron Sellers

    A delay of my friend's flight allowed me to go dancing for an hour over at America. Bernstein was spinning the CDs, Tom and Deb were finishing up teaching the intermediate class, and Carolyn B. was showing me how to do the Shag that they saw out in California. It is a really cool move and I plan on knowing this move as well as the charleston. I struggled with the foot steps for most of the night only to watch Jeff Booth pick it up in about five minutes. Sometimes, I can really dislike that guy. If you want lots of dance space, listen to a great Lindy selection, practice with your partner, or just want to dance, this is the place to come. All you have to do is pay five bucks and buy one drink.

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    Monday January 5, 1998

    From: Cameron Sellers

    A new session started tonight with about a zillion people taking both the beginner and Intermediate classes. Tom and Deb began to teach certain shag moves that we can add to our slowwww dance repertoire. Bernstein was there spinning the CDs and the two hours after the lesson was spent learning what we were just taught or dancing with new people. Throughout the evening, Ericka let me fish flip her a couple of times and Cherri practice the Shag with me.

    [Editor's Note: Now, what are our British friends going to think when they read that?]

    From: Christy Etcher

    What excites me the most, however, is the new shoes from Germany I just purchased from Constance Mitchell. That dear sweet wonderful patient lady diligently slaved away over phone and e-mail until she found us ole Americans the European shoes for which I so often hear fellow Lindy Hoppers rave. Now I can confirm the reason for all the hubbub. They are awesome! LIndy Hoppers: look for her over the next few weeks and bring a checkbook wherever you go...rumor has it that a new shipment could be coming any day. Thank you Constance Mitchell!

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    Tuesday January 6, 1998

    We made it to the innaugural session at the Grille in 1998 and were very pleased at the huge turnout. Once again, Iver was very helpful in assisting us with innovative dance moves. Chrissy Hall had a great birthday celebration and we enjoyed the cake very much. It seemed like EVERYONE got in line for Chrissy's dance-off. Her feet are probably still sore. It was great to see a big turnout again. Remember that your PSDC dues are now payable, so expect Hutch to hit you for $5. Cameron was also there:

    From: Cameron Sellers

    As I walked in through the door, I was blinded by a couple of hands and lo and behold it was Heather who was here with Sarah, John, and Nat's brother from Australia. They had come to take lessons from Hutch and experience Lindy night at the Grille. Gator spun the cds for the large crowd. I met new people from VA Tech here for the holidays and danced with many familiar faces. Carolyn B. taught me the shag again and I finally picked up the step. The gang celebrated Chris Hall's birthday and all of us got to dance with her. I almost turned her into the railing during the birthday dance so it was almost her last. Good thing Tuan was there to rescue her from me.

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    Thursday January 8, 1998

    We were at home, but Cameron was out dancing:

    From: Cameron Sellers

    Jeff, Carla, and I drove out to the Avalon Studio to study with Leslie Coombs for one night. But before we arrived for the lesson, we drove into Baltimore to do a little vintage shopping. We orginally headed for Dreamland but when we got there, the store was closed. We spent the rest of our excursion on St Charles street, visiting a couple of retro vintage stores. One was a 70s place, so tons of polyester, but they did have a few 40s ties. Also they had lots of back issues of Playboy from 1950s and 60s if Tom K. is interested.

    After a somewhat disappointing trip, we headed for the Avalon where Leslie was kind enough to let us drop in for a class. She taught one routine that we could use for slow songs, but I had a difficult time keeping the footsteps. Lots of D.C. people were there: Susan, Larry, Cherri, Psycho Boy, Diane, Bernedette, and others. Quite a large class.

    Afterwards, the studio was open for practice for two hours.

    [Note: the following sentence is just as it appeared in Cameron's report. I even sent him a special e-mail to verify that this is what he sent. All of Cameron's friends at Wheaton College are NOT to read the next sentence.]

    I danced with Diane who fogged up my glasses when she wiggled her posterior end. I never have had that happen to my glasses before.
    ---Cameron Sellers

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    Friday January 9, 1998

    We joined the throng at America. The extreme crowding of the week before had given way somewhat, but the crowd was still huge! Here is Sue Fedor's report:

    From: Sue Fedor

    BUSTED
    That's what we are. Yes, those of you who think you're getting away with pulling a fast one on the Mall Nazis at Tysons Corner Center are not. YOU ARE BEING VIDEOTAPED. The big bad mall brother is watching you. So stop your practicing in the mall. Stop it right now. Gay and I were actually cheeky enough to ask the Guard Guy if we could see the video tapes. He was not amused.

    Once again, we managed to sneak into the jam --- and what a jam-packed jam it was --- and we didn't embarrass ourselves. We had a discussion with Robin afterwards about jam length. Last year, Trisha Reneau had some thoughts about the subject to the tune of, "Do your good stuff and get out!" Now Steve and I are the king and queen of the three-whip set-up, so we're culprits just as much as many of you who are reading this. It's a new year and our resolution is to put only what is necessary and fun to watch in the jam and leave room for the rest of you very talented folks. Let's be considerate of Mr. Brent Sessions and whomever happens to be on the bass --- they play constantly through our jams --- sometimes for 10 minutes --- which is excessive by anyone's standards.

    One highlight of the evening was Robin's duet on "That's Your Red Wagon". What a cute song. I asked her sidekick if she was coming back next week and she said no. Robin is a mistress of close harmony and it's such a shame we can't clone her so that we could get those wonderful Andrews Sisters style harmonies more often.

    Cameron was at the "Boogie in the Boondocks" with Ed and Heidi at Marshall, Virginia; there is, strangely, no mention of cows in his report:

    From: Cameron Sellers

    Carolyn, Psychoboy, Cherri, and I headed west on Interstate 66 out into nowhere. After a twenty minute drive, we arrived at the Marshall Community Center for Ed's much publicized dance. Rumor has it, Ed and his friend have been spreading the Lindy Gospel to the rural areas of Virginia. When we got there, I thought we may have arrived at the wrong place. There was basketball game going on, however I saw Gator setting up the sound system. But once 8 O'Clock hit, the place transformed into a dance hall as Gator spun the cds.

    Bob Klinepeter, Tricia, Larry, and Dr. Daniel showed up to lend support for the cause. Soon beginners and experienced dancers intermingled for the next three hours. Ed did a good job with the dance set up. There were snacks and refreshments for the crowd. He even had gatorade for the sweaty dancers.
    ---Cameron Sellers

    (Note: Ed said that they will try to have a dance once a month, so check it out.)

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    Saturday January 10, 1998

    We were at Glen Echo along with a VERY large crowd, considering that Tom Cunningham had picked this date up on short notice and didn't really advertise it except through word of mouth and our website. A real big turnout --- take a look at this, O ye Swing Dance Committee --- and they want HOT music. There were lots of newcomers, especially college and high school students who seem to pick things up by osmosis. A great time of inter-generational good feeling was had by all. Here is Sue Fedor's review:

    From: Sue Fedor

    Let's just say we've had better days. Steve's day was completely disrupted by a visit from Gay and Dave and their dog, Zipper (the Ted Kaczynski of border collies) and not to mention plagued by numerous and frustrating technical problems with his computer, he was in no mood to dance. I, on the other hand, who had been bitten by Zipper and feeling a bit skittish about parting with a nice sum of money for a business venture, needed desparately to get out and dance. So that's how I showed up at Glen Echo, with Gay and Dave, sans Steve.

    If I'm not mistaken, I think there were more aerials in the dance contest than there were in the jam. The jam featured some sort of gravity defying aerial by Psychoboy and Caroline that occured way too fast for me to figure out how they did it. The jam also featured the debut of Frank and Carole's new move to exit the floor. It involved Frank dropping to the floor while Carole suggestively (heck, everything she does is suggestive, isn't it?) shuffling over him with him between her legs. Did Iver teach you that one too? He wasn't there, so if he did teach it to you, I must report back to him that his pupils once again scored a big A+.

    Crowd confusion (and Tom Koerner's confusion) was rampant as Andy Wallo took BOTH TWINS, Carla and Clarissa, out on the floor three separate times. Brent was once again doing his yeoman's job at accompanying every jam move on the dance floor. Highlights were Big Dave Dabbondanza's footwork and Tom and Debra's ending--she nailed the Spike in eight beats and never have I seen them so synchonized. Must be all that practicing. I think these kids are finally coming along, don't you?

    The controversial dance contest featured Jeff and Big Dave, each with a twin, and a newly shorn Buck, with his partner, among the couples competing. Buck won the crowd over early with his high kicking travelling Charleston variation. I think he won over Tom K. too, since neither Tom, Debra, Gay, nor I have EVER seen Buck dance with such energy and precision before. We were still discussing it during the second song, when it became clear that lightning does not strike twice. But as Jeff and Dave did almost sychronized killer routines with the twins, we were busy discussing Buck, so it was understandable, at least from my vantage point, that Tom "heard" more applause for Buck and his partner than for anyone else. Afterward, we told Jeff and Dave that they should switch the twins next time they go out. But they tell me the twins are going back to college, so I guess next time it will have to be Jeff and Dave.

    Once again, we were treated to "That's Your Red Wagon." I really enjoy dancing with all the guys I don't usually get to dance with because Steve occupies so much of my time. Frankly, that's why we go out by ourselves often--it forces us to dance with other people. I love all you guys, but my dance highlight a wonderful spin on the floor with Mr. John McCalla, who I don't get to dance with very often. He's become quite a fine leader and a very musical dancer.

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    Sunday January 11, 1998

    We spent the day travelling in southern Pennsylvania, stopping in Shrewsbury, York and Lancaster. It turns out that Sunday isn't the greatest day to do this. Lancaster apparently buttons itself up at 1:00 pm on Saturday. We are going to go back on another day and provide you with a more definitive review --- as soon as Carla sends us some inside information on the area. On this trip, we found three places of note:

    • The Shrewsbury Antique Center, (61 N. Highland Dr, Shrewsbury, Pa 17361, 717-235-6637). This was a fairly nice antique mall which had a good selection of magazines from the 1930s and 1940s. We did not see any of the important 12 issues of Life, but there were others, including one with a very young Gregory Peck on the cover (that is directed at Elizabeth Magin). A fair selection of appliances, no vintage clothes. This place is worth a look if you are in the area.
    • Another Time (36 E. Forrest Ave., Shrewsbury, Pa 17361, 717-235-0664) This is a very high end women's vintage store with a whole lot to offer. Carole found a wedding dress from 1913 that had a very special provenance: the veil, shoes, stockings and purse were part of the deal, also including a photograph of the happy couple and an original wedding inviatation. This would fit in very nicely with this Titanic craze. At $200 it was a bargain, especially since a new, blah gown at a "bride store" might start at $1000.
    • The Lancaster Dispensing Corporation (33-35 N. Market Street, Lancaster, Pa 717-299-4602) has a very nice ambience and good food. It is directly opposite the city market.

    The bad news is that there is comparatively little (or no) swing dancing in York/Lancaster area. Sorry. If you have to be there, you might want to check out the website of a vulgar little throwaway called Barfly. Antiques, pretzels, pork products - Yes. Swing dancing - no.

    Cameron was at the Sunday session at America:

    From: Cameron Sellers

    America offers lots of practice space for those who want to just new moves or polish up old ones. After classes, America has an atmosphere of an open practice session but with Bernstein spinning the cds. He plays slow to moderate tempo music, so you don't have to worry trying to learn a new step to "Sing, Sing, Sing." All his songs are Lindy or 50s eight count so you won't have to practice new moves to a West Coast or a Hustle song. And of course, Tom and Deb are there on hand to help with any questions. Finally, there are lots of beginner and intermediate students who are willing to practice the new moves that they have learned.
    ---Cameron Sellers

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    Monday January 12, 1998

    We dropped into the Chevy Chase Ballroom and had a great time. In addition to practicing a lot of old moves in front of the mirror (with Iver's guidance), we also had a mission. To wit, Carole called me several times during the day with an idea for a new aerial called the "Merry-Go-Round". The downside is that it takes eight people. But, with the aid of Jeff and Carla, Larry and Elizabeth, Tom K and Clarissa, we were able to perfect the move. This is a first and you saw it at Chevy Chase.

    Cameron was also there:

    From: Cameron Sellers

    For those who ever wanted to know if Tom and Deb know the swing out, they do! They taught the intermediate class the swing out with some other new moves based on the swing out. After having Leslie observe my swing out the week before, it was nice having some practice time to work on what she critiqued.

    [Editor's Note: Leslie teaches the swing out a little bit differently from Tom and Debra, which has been a major sticking point in dancing with the Baltimore folks. There is no "right" here, so both groups are going to have to adjust.]

    It was Scott's birthday and I never saw so many women line up to dance with him. From now on, I'm taking notes from him.

    I thought once summer was over, I would quit sweating so much in this classroom. I thought I would not have to change shirts (which I don't anyway), but it would be nice not to be nagged by some about it. I would be able to wear heavier clothes and not worry about sweating. But winter is worse. I forgot that dance rooms have heaters. Those blasted things are on too high like at Americas or add 100 people in a comfortable room and the place is just like it was in the summer. HOT! I have now realized as long as I lindy hop, I will be doing lots of laundry and making my dry cleaner rich.
    ---Cameron Sellers

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    Tuesday January 13, 1998

    We took the "Merry-Go-Round" to Vienna Grille and got "Psychoboy" into the act. It was also Carole's birthday and for good measure, we celebrated Scott's again. Unbeknownst to us, it was also near Chris Bamberger's birthday, so we welcomed her into the fray. We spent a lot of time in dance-offs. We have two reviews of the evening:

    From: Elizabeth Weaver Engel

    Last night (January 13) was our first trip to the Vienna Grill's Tuesday night Lindy Hopping, and I just had to write a review. I am so tired at work today, and it was absolutely worth it! Last night was one of the most fun evenings of dance I've yet enjoyed as part of the DC Lindy scene. Thanks to Frank and Carole for the lift out and for the accompanying Lindy history lesson. Frank played host wonderfully well all evening, introducing us to many of the Grill regulars and to the famous Craig Hutchinson.

    I thought that Gator played consistently danceable tunes all evening, to our great delight. And the floor! If anyone is reading this and hasn't danced at Vienna Grill, you owe it to yourself to visit just to enjoy the dance floor! So comfy for the knees and feet! Trust me, you get used to watching out for the poles pretty quickly. The folks there were definitely the best overall dancers we've yet been privileged to watch and dance among and with. I only got bumped into once, and Vienna Grill is not a huge place. I learned more in two and a half hours at the Grill than I have at any other place, probably even including Tom and Debra's individual classes as they're only an hour each.

    After a truly awful rendition of "Happy Birthday" by the Vienna Grill Boys' Choir (and I'm told they've actually improved over time, which is a frightening thought), Jim and I participated in our very first birthday lineup. Jim got to dance with Chris and Carole, and I danced rather badly with a very patient Scott - when I get nervous, I don't follow well at all. Frank may not be a very good singer, but at least he bakes a delicious cake!

    Many thanks to all the great leaders who took the time and had the courage to dance with this raw beginner and help me with the three F's: form, frame, and following skills; in addition to teaching me all kinds of great new moves: (and please forgive me if I spell your name wrong!) Rene, Frank, Iver, John, Cameron, Scott (I hope I haven't forgotten anyone....)

    Thanks also go to Dr. Dan and Julia for showing us a reverse whip/swing out/Lindy swing (I think I got all the terms right!) and for providing a lift home in the wee hours of the morning, to Frank and Carole for teaching us the traveling Charleston, and to Frank, Carole, Larry, and Shala for helping us safely and sanely begin work on the A kick. And finally, thanks to all who've offered rides: Dan D, Frank and Carole, Dr. Dan, Julia, Cameron...we'll definitely be taking you up on your offers. The DC Lindy folks are a truly generous bunch of people with rides, time, knowledge, and advice.

    We even won a CD (on our first night!) by the Love Dogs, which we listened to this morning as we got ready for work. What a great band! I hear they'll be visiting us on January 24, so be sure to mark your calendar!
    ---Elizabeth

    From: Sue Fedor

    It was Balboa Madness at the Vienna Grille Tuesday night. At least that's what I think everybody was trying to learn. Seems that Iver knows 250 variations. That shouldn't surprise anyone. It shouldn't surprise anyone if Iver corrects me next week and tells me that I was actually learning the Peabody or something like that.

    Thanks to the generosity of Dr. Frank, I may be able to make it out to Vienna more regularly on Tuesday nights. As usual, it was wonderful dancing with all my favorite guys and some new people I'm not too familiar with. Scott, Carole, and Chris B. celebrated birthdays. Frank tried his best to incapacitate us with an extra shot of Drambuie in Carole's cake. (That's if we weren't already bowled over by his "singing")

    I discovered that Chris's husband, Radio Rob (he doesn't even dance and he has a nickname already...tisn't fair), is from my hometown of Cleveland. We all wished Tricia Reneau godspeed as she wings off into the arms of her beloved Thomas...soon to be arriving back to the Colonies sometime in February.

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    Wednesday January 14, 1998

    Finally, this just in from London:

    From: Rachel Blacketer

    Dear Frank and Carole,
    HI!!!!!!! I'm in London and having a great time. I went to Jitterbugs on Wednesday, and had tons o' fun. It's in this basement in Leicester Square. Really great dance floor, and really great tunes (DJ). They played a lot of different music, with some good old rock'n'roll and jive mixed in. I saw Thomas there! He said to tell y'all a big hello from him, and that he'll be back in February. I danced with him and a few other people, but had to get back before the metro closed. It was a good time. I'm going to the 100 Club tomorrow night, and that should be good. A bunch of people that came on the trip with me are also going. Everybody seems pretty excited, but they all want me to show them how before we go!

    London is fabulous. So much to shop, so much to shop. I've seen most of the way-famous things, and bought this really cool book on 40's style in the Victoria and Albert Museum.

    I miss you guys tons, and will write again when I get the chance. Your postcard is in the mail... :)
    Love,
    ---Rachel in London

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    Thursday January 15, 1998

    We were at the Washington Opera, since it was Carole's birthday. We will not dwell on her age, although Carole wants me to let everyone know that she is the oldest woman doing aerials in the DC/Baltimore area. The Opera, Dona Francesquita, was a new departure for the Washington company -- it is of Spanish origin, a "light" opera called a Zarzuela, in which some parts are spoken. The opera involves a five-sided romantic triangle. Of note, the baritone in these things is usually an old geezer who is trying to make a conquest of the sweet young soprano. Usually the "old guy" is the butt of all the jokes -- I used to laugh until I put it together --- this guy has a twenty year old son! OOPS! Now, I began to identify with old Don Matias. Not only that, but he does a very good job of tackling the Bully and is the only one of the group who can swing out on the Mazurka (the Lindy Hop of 1880s Spain). He sings (in Spanish) "Dance and you will never grow old." I found much to enjoy in this production.

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    Friday January 16, 1998

    We were at the recreation of the Goodman Carnegie Hall concert, along with quite a few others. Sue Fedor has the review:

    From: Sue Fedor

    Steve and I attended the New Columbia Swing Orchestra's recreation of Benny Goodman's 1938 Carnegie Hall Concert at the Duke Ellington School Auditorium. I found out, only that morning by reading the paper that only part of the concert would be reproduced, but that Brooks Tegler would be doing the entire concert in Annapolis on Sunday. It was too late to change our plans, however.

    The band never projected better than it did on a stage with real acoustic baffling. If Frank Goldseth is serious about not amplifying the musicians, he'd do well to invest in some portable baffles. They really do the trick. However, a myriad of little problems combined to fill the concert with distractions: a busted microphone on the lead singer, musicians who were a tad out of synch, soloists with no energy...etc...

    By the time they got to "Sing, Sing, Sing", however, the band kicked into gear. My personal highlight was "I've Got Rhythm" where Brooks Tegler, on drums and the vibraphone player played a mean duet: vibraphone with a cowbell counter point. Brooks' plays his entire drumset (genuine Gene Krupa), from the rims of the drums themselves (which sound like bells), to the squeak his chair makes when he bounces on the bass pedal.

    Much like the original concert, there has been great tension between Brooks Tegler and Frank Goldseth--paralleling the tension that Goodman had with Krupa. It's hard to rein in two talented musicians with very strong opinions and high standards of perfection. We sat in the front row during the concert, where, it was very apparent, that all the musicians involved worked hard on the music and were really having fun. Ultimately, that's what counts.

    Now onto dancing....At the original 1938 concert, there WAS dancing (and clapping, and shouting, and young men rushing the stage), much to the chagrin of both Goodman and the critics. It is often rumored that Goodman was not fond of dancers. From what I've read, I think that while he was willing to play for all sorts of audiences, he preferred to keep the dancers in the ballroom and the concert goers in their seats. Young men, nicknamed "ickies", would hang out around the edge of the stage and gyrating, bouncing, and wagging their heads with the music....the forerunners of "headbangers", if you will. Goodman especially hated these guys.

    We danced on the sides down in front and in the aisles. The floor was concrete covered with low nap industrial carpeting. We all wore leather bottomed shoes. Frank G. and the crowd were very appreciative. During "Stompin' at the Savoy", we broke into a Shim Sham, once I flew over to the other side of the house to accompany Frank M. and gang. It was really neat to shim sham to this version. All the phrase lengths are the same, but their order was a bit different than on the recording. This made the moves "feel" different, since we were doing them to a different melody line. This made me, at least, emphasize the steps in a different way or even synchopate a bit. The song was also three times longer than we were used to...so even after starting late, we were able to complete the whole routine and dance.

    In 1938, Goodman featured Count Basie on piano and Lionel Hampton on vibes. It was revolutionary to see black and white musicians together in this sort of venue. It would still be some time before the integration that was common in Jazz would be acceptable elsewhere. Only a year later would Marion Anderson be denied a concert at the DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC. Of course, she would go on to sing to a larger audience at a much better venue: the Lincoln Memorial.

    While the Carnegie Hall patrons basked in the afterglow of having seen the "best musicians in Jazz," the "best musicians in Jazz" took cabs uptown to the Savoy Ballroom, where a much anticipated battle of the bands was taking place. Chick Webb vs. Count Basie. THAT'S where the best musicians in Jazz really were. Playing for dancers. No room for "ickies" or folks paying $15 to sit in cushy velvet seats.

    This is the review that appeared in The Washington Post --- there is also a review in the local throwaway, the Northwest Current, in which Steve, Sue, the Engels, We are generally misquoted.

    New Columbia Swing Orchestra At Duke Ellington School

    At the Duke Ellington School of the Arts on Friday night, the New Columbia Swing Orchestra celebrated the 60th anniversary of Benny Goodman's Carnegie Hall jazz concert. It did so by vibrantly re-creating much of the music performed on that fabled evening in 1938, back when a box seat would have cost you $2.75 [Editor's Note: Adjusted for inflation, this is $42.84 in 1998 dollars; the 85 cent balcony seats would be about $13.24 -- sorry, in my note last Friday, I guessed at $15.]

    Doubtless some members of the audience were in a mood to reminisce about the music of their youth, while a younger contingent of swing-era enthusiasts clearly came to dance the night away. The performance, though, offered listeners much more than a whiff of nostalgia and a danceable beat. For starters, the charts assembled for the concert by band leader and clarinetist Frank Guldseth frequently attested to Goodman's good taste and good fortune. He worked with some of the era's finest arrangers, after all, including Fletcher Henderson and Jimmy Mundy. Moreover, the big band charts and small combo jam sessions were laced with artful contributions from Guldseth, trumpeter Marc Weigel, pianist Larry Eanet and vibist John Cocuzzi, plus the now nonchalant, now explosive Gene Krupa-like drumming of Brooks Tegler.

    Unfortunately, the orchestra might have been better off using sound equipment available during Goodman's glory days. Frequent problems with the stage monitors and microphones robbed the music of some of its luster and undermined John Tegler's informative narration and vocalist Dana Sanders's performance of "Loch Lomond." A fine singer with a voice particularly well suited to the material, Sanders later got a chance to fully display her talent on "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen."
    --- Mike Joyce

    After the concert, the gang went to America to finish the last set. Cameron has a review of the whole evening:

    From: Cameron Sellers

    Tom Cunningham sounded great at Americas Friday night. They played a great version of King Porter Stomp. The crowd was not quite as large but the dance floor was still crowded. The JAM miss most of its participants because most of the regulars were at the Duke of Ellington School listening to New Columbia Swing. However, the JAM was still good as David and Gay did the Waterfall, Carolyn and Psychoboy did crazy Swede stunts, Andy and Carla did a interesting routine, but the couple that top it all was Dave "Big Red" and Carla. He lay on his back and flipped Carla with his feet. It was really cool. [Editor's Note: Only Cameron can say "cool" and get away with it on these pages...]
    ---Cameron Sellers

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    Saturday January 17, 1998

    We and the rest of the gang went to Glen Echo to hear Big Joe Maher. The show was vintage Dynaflows, and all the songs that we particularly like, including "Layin' in the Alley" were played. The downside was that some of the songs went on much too long; worse yet, we liked the lengthy jams as music --- it is just impossible to do Lindy for twelve to fifteen minutes at a stretch, because NOBODY has that much material! Thus, what is fantastic in concert leaves something to be desired at a dance. However, we have not one iota of fault for the band's musicianship. And sportsmanship, for that matter, because Joe invited Tobias to play a boogie woogie jam with him.

    We were also impressed with the Lindy Demo provided by the Norbelies, the current reigning world champions. On the other hand, the moment was slightly flawed by the Norbelies' request that no photos or videos be taken --- we know that this is a business for them, but Glen Echo is strictly social, and their request had a little "prima donna" twinge. Besides, why would one want "bootleg" tapes of them when you can buy a copy of Hellzapoppin from Judy Pritchett for a small sum --- the secrets have been out for nearly sixty years!

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    Sunday January 18, 1998

    From: Ray Wiles

    On Sunday the 18th of January, the current world lindy hop champions, Kenneth and Helena Norbelie, taught three workshops at Chevy Chase Ballroom. The workshops were organized by Ellen Engle of Flying Home Productions. Everyone came prepared for three hours of world championship winning moves.

    However, the Norbelies' re-evaluated their approach after observing the dancing of the participants. They thought that much more work (much, much more work) was needed on the swingout. And so begins the tale of The Swingout at the CCB Corral. [Editor's Note: Beginners heed this --- when the pros get together, they DO NOT talk about fancy aerials --- they focus on the basics. Keep that in mind.]

    First, a general overview of some of Kenneth and Helena more memorable (i.e., as in retained in memory) comments, observations, and suggestions.

    • Do more swingouts. As an exercise, Kenneth told the guys to eschew the use of the 6-count inside underarm turn.
    • You can cross in-front or behind on 5. Whichever you normally do, as an exercise do the opposite during the workshop. Kenneth prefers to cross in front.
    • Keep your torso oriented to your partner at all times. Especially on 4, torso and shoulders should be in congruence.
    • Women are hanging back to much, on 1-2 in particular, but also on 3&4. Both partners should be self-supporting. Each person should know and fulfill their role; they are each responsible for getting in position by 4.

    Helena said that women don't have to travel much on 1-2, but if they don't they should make sure they travel on 3&4 to get in place on time. However, she noted that if the music is fast, it is better to travel on the 1-2, otherwise you will not have time on the 3&4 to get around. They both noted that you shouldn't pull back on 1-2. Helena mentioned that sometimes she'll travel more on 5-6 to allow herself more space/time of 7&8 to play.

    • Men should not tug on their partners. The lead on 1-2 should be light. This is more easily accomplished if each partner carries their own weight and is responsible for their own movement.
    • Guys are hanging on too long. The woman have to be released by 5. Yes, the release occurs before 5. [Editor's note: see Debra's article in the Dance Forum]
    • Guys lead too much. Guys in America want to lead 100% of the time; this is too much work and very restrictive.

    The only regular opportunity women have to play is in the swingout; so do more swingouts. In addition, to the play opportunities in the swingouts, give women more time to play. Listen to the music for good opportunities to let the women play. Breaks, accents and other interesting variations in the music are all places for playing. When you play it must be 100%. No lukewarm playing. If you going to shine, really shine. Don't be inhibited, there's nothing wrong.

    Finally, synopses of the individual workshops.

    "Beginning/Intermediate Lindy Hop -- concentrating on proper technique, this class included moves that every lindy hopper should know!"

    • Swingout
    • Lindy Circle
    • Skip-up
    • Tuck to double outside turn
    • Cakewalk
    • Texas tommy (taught a variation where you only exchange places)

    "Intermediate/Advanced Lindy Hop -- This class will included some interesting syncopations and more advanced moves."

    • Footwork.
      • Men: 1-4 is standard; cross in-front on 5, pivot to facefollower; slide back on right on 6; stomp off left-right on &7; stomp off right left on &8, and rock-step on 1-2
      • Women: a) side-together-side; b) leg sweep
    • Swingout to handshake hold
    • Rock-step follower to double free (ccw/inside/reverse) spin; pickup follower on 5 and continue into lindy circle
    • Rock-step and open space between partners; kick outside legforward; while legs are still in air, lead follower to face inside so that you both land with outside foot crossed over inside foot (between bodies); rock-step-step while closing the gap between partners
    • Skip-up; spin outside and backwards to end up in side-by-side position; rock-step and lead follower into free inside (ccw) spin.

    "Styling & Performance -- recommended for couples interested in competing, performing or simply dancing at a higher level. (Who better to give you feedback and pointers than the reigning World Champions?!!) Partners required for this class only!!"

  • Lindy circle to 8-count free tuck; women should experiment with different ways of styling the free spins (e.g., double spin, start to turn cw and then stop and spin ccw, etc.)
  • Experiment with various ways of letting the woman have space toplay.
  • Tuck into catch and reversal on 5, immediately catch woman's right hand in your right as she spins past and lead it over her head and down into a hammerlock on 8. Step with your left foot to your left on 1 and describe a ccw-circle using &2&3&4 (women footwork is 1-2-3&4). Bring woman to your left on 5 and free her up to style her way back to an open facing posture (maybe crossover steps on 6-7)
  • Assembly line Swingouts drill: All couples start in one large circle; do 3 swingouts and use 8 beats to change partners. One cycle will return your original partner back to you. Do several cycles.

[Rumors have it that this exercise will be featured in the lindy boot camp coming to location near you. Other exercises include the 5 minute scissors warmup, the mile footwork medley (twist-twist, shorty george, boogie backs, boogie walks, etc.), and more.]

From: Cameron Sellers

Sunday was Lindy Day. I woke up at 11:30 and barely made it to Kenneth and Helena Norbelie's Intermediate Class at Chevy Chase Ballroom. Thanks to Ellen for setting up these lessons with the World Lindy Hop Champions on short notice. They taught quite a few moves that allow women more freedom to stylize in the swing out. They interacted with the students very well and danced with everyone in the Advance class to get an idea on how we danced. They gave great advice and was very constructive on our weak points. They were great instructors.

Later that night, I went to Americas and practiced on what we learned that afternoon. I got to practice with Carolyn, Sue, Carla, Chris, Debra, and Ellen even if they didn't want to.
---Cameron Sellers

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Monday January 19, 1998

From: Debra Sternberg

We were enjoying the usual melee at our Monday night class when who should walk in the door but Anna and Christer Isberg, accompanied by their host Ed Burak. Ed has these Swedish kids sequestered down in the great Virginia countryside or wherever in the heck it is he lives (according to Christer, you go down Route 66, take some exit, and then drive for another million miles). They came up to join us for a night of social dancing but of course we made them do a little demo number, and boy, were they fantastic! We surprised them with something Bernstein picked ("Chartruese" by Louis Jordan, as it turned out), and they tore up the floor with a great Boogie Woogie number. It was just the kind of dancing I like to see from these guys, too--not a canned choreographed routine, but solid, amazing lead-and-follow. Naturally they went to the Cheesecake Factory with us afterwards. I'm beginning to suspect that the Cheesecake Factory is the only reason anyone comes out on Monday nights!

Anyway, I'm really looking forward to their Boogie-Woogie classes, and I know their Lindy stuff will be great too.
Kissums,
---Auntie Deb

From: Cameron Sellers

After being immersed with Swedes on Sunday, Ed brought the Isbergs, a Swedish couple who will be teaching Lindy Hop and Boogie Woogie at the Avalon on Saturdays. Ann and Christer did an improvisional lindy number to a song that Bernstein randomly picked. They looked great out there as envious eyes could only imagine what it must be like to be able to listen to the music and to hit all the breaks. If anything, the Swedes this weekend humbles us again on how far behind we are in style and ability.
---Cameron Sellers

[Editor's Note: Yes, the Swedes humble us, but their government subsidizes dance training and instruction from an early age. If Nike or Reebok ever start giving Lindy endorsements, the "humbling" will go in a different direction...no bureaucrats necessary]

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Tuesday January 20, 1998

We were at the regular Tuesday session. We were pleased to meet and chat with the Isbergs. It was also Brian macGregor's birthday, and his dance-off attracted all the ladies. Mike Dugan and Jenny Manlove attended, and we were finally able to practice the Madison, following Jenny's superb leadership. We even got in a Jitterbug Stroll. Cameron reports on other details:

From: Cameron Sellers

Vienna Grille was a happening place last night. The floor was crowded as Gator spun the cds. The usual crowd was there plus Ed brought the Swedish couple Ann and Christer Isberg. Carolyn informed me that the shag that I have been practicing was wrong. She quickly showed me the right way and then proceeded to show me new and complicated shag routines. I am determined to have these moves down before the Battle of the Bands.

Sue Fedor commented about Vienna Grille that the dancers are intimidating. I have to agree. I've been going there since July and I still get intimidated by some of those dancers.
---Cameron Sellers

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Wednesday January 21, 1998

We spent the day at the Newseum, looking at the exhibit of photographs and memorabilia from the Associated Press. This is a wonderful exhibit and we commend it to all. Of note, the Newseum is selling reproduction copies of actual newspapers on historic dates. This includes the whole paper, ads, comics, crosswords, etc. There are two papers marking the end of World War II. The one on V-E day is from the Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph (now defunct). I used to be a paperboy for the "Telly", one of the Hearst papers. They paid one cent per weekly issue and five cents for Sunday. I had 100 customers and was thrilled to make $1 per day (and $5 for lugging about 60 pounds of papers on Sunday which I had to assemble myself) Not only that, I had to front money for the papers from the distributors and collect the money from the customers. Now read my feelings about Hearst's Castle at San Simeon in the Travel Guide. Believe it or not, my "paperboy" earnings actually paid for three semesters of college. When I started at Carnegie Tech, tuition was $500 for as many credits as you could survive. Ask me sometime how I sold Cloverine Brand Salve to earn a bicycle. As you can see, none of these activities built any character at all...

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Thursday January 22, 1998

Sorry, we have no reviews for this date.

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Friday January 23, 1998

We began the evening in a bit of disarray --- we heeded Ben Rathbone's call to a dance at Thomas Jefferson High School. When we got there, we found a women's basketball game in progress. We note that this was NOT "Girl's Basketball" of my era. These young ladies were in top form. They could really move the ball. We saw a dynamite pass between the legs, some fancy dribbling, an "alley oop", and some genuinely aggressive play under the boards followed by some eagle-eye foul shooting. We saw one young woman hit two three-pointers that didn't touch the rim. Alas, we felt just a BIT self-conscious rooting for the "Lady Colonials" in our vintage finery ("Get many zoot suits at the games?"). Later, we found out that Cameron, Carolyn and John McCalla had made the same mistake. Ben SWEARS that the dance is this Friday, January 30.

We got to America just as the first set was ending and the place was mobbed. If the guy from New York is reading this, I saw food being served at almost every table. Believe me, they made MONEY last Friday. We thought that the band was really hot -- there was just a lot of good energy in the air. The jam was really special --- the Devoneys and the Shepardsons finally got to debut their "Airplane" maneuver and it got a very enthusiastic response. Clearly, they put a lot of effort into this and it showed. We had a visitor from North Carolina who came up for the Isbergs' workshops and he made a big contribution to the evening as well. Andy Wallo and Carla did a very unusual maneuver where he rotated her at hip level and stepped over her legs (you have to see it to get the full impact) Steve and Christy gave new meaning to the word "aerial" --- these two get so much height that they must have an exemption from the Law of Gravity.

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Saturday January 24, 1998

This was a big weekend -- there were three major dances. Tom Cunningham had 511 people attend at Glen Echo, "Gator" and Hutch got about 250 for the Love Dogs at Ft. Meyer and Leslie Coombs got about 150 at Avalon for Swing Speak. This means that over 1,000 people went out swing dancing this weekend!

We were at Glen Echo.

We had a very nice time with about 511 kids from who-knows where. The Cunningham band had its two best nights ever this weekend and the jams were just incredible. Nothing stale. During the second set, the experienced Lindy Hoppers broke up into small groups with 15 or so kids and taught them a few things besides Charleston. Jeff Booth took charge of a small group and taught them pull-throughs (the least-deadly aerial...) Believe it or not, we had at least six high school couples doing very credible swing-outs and tandem Charleston by the Third set --- kids who had never seen Lindy before. There was a WHOLE lot of group energy. We took turns leading Charleston lines just to keep the kids occupied. I met one girl who said that she had NEVER actually danced with a partner before. We got her fixed up with an equally apprehensive young man and they actually looked pretty good by midnight. Fantastic...

In lieu of a dance contest (there was one on January 10), Frank Petrocelli, a Lindy Hopper, put on a magic show that had everyone in stitches. A young man volunteered from the audience, and he was the absolutely perfect straight man. He was in his teens and had big horn-rimmed glasses and a dour face that was impassive throughout the performance, even though Frank supposedly incinerated his five dollar bill. (The fellow even volunteered a Twenty when it looked like the trick had gone awry.) He didn't even blink when Frank retrieved the five dollar bill from inside a lemon that he had tossed out into the audience. A really great show. This is two weeks straight that the dancers have contributed to the entertainment.

Ellen Werther was at Avalon:

From: Ellen Werther

Boogie Woogie or Bust-- Diane Hutson-Wiley and I went up to Avalon on Saturday (She, praise be, did ALL the driving in Yucky Conditions, for which I am eternally grateful) We went for the pre-dance (Boogie Woogie) workshop with Christer and Anna and for the dance itself. I personally was torn between the Cunninghams -- Robin had promised me that they would do Drum Boogie*--but the workshop (and Swing Speak) won out and to Avalon we went. I am still recovering! All in all I had one of the best dance evenings in recent memory. It had been a while since I had been to Avalon and I estimate that the crowd has about doubled since then. I would guess that about 100 dancers (give or take) were there. Christer and Anna gave an excellent workshop (I know others will be reporting about the Saturday and Sunday events, which unfortunately I couldn't attend). Boogie Woogie is a six-count dance, but the emphasis is on the two and four, rather than one and three, and the rockstep is replaced with a one-two done in place. That's the basic. Christer -- who is VERY funny, by the way, also taught a pass, a couple of underarm turns, and a duck walk combination. Dave and I spent some time practising later and once we got used to it, we decided it was lots of fun (I'm looking for a word other than "cool") Christer and Anna did a demo and GEEEZE, the dance looks amazing when they do it. And for those of us who are aerially-challenged (or who just don't choose to do aerials) the dance looks great (IS great) with out any, although C & A threw in a couple at the end. The dance is somewhat like hand dancing....which brings us to the next delite of the evening. Leslie had the Baltimore Hand Dancers in to do a demostration. They were excellent, and we (the women at least) got to dance with them later. VERY IMPORTANT: Janice Saylor made an announcement about the Glen Echo meeting on Tuesday, February 3rd, urging everyone who possibly could to come voice their concern and to SPREAD THE WORD-- not only to folks in the DC area but to others across the country and abroad. Last, but not least, Swing Speak was excellent.

**However, I did miss "Drum Boogie" (et al) at Glen Echo. It is, as Robin well knows, my favorite. Also, for those who weren't at America on Friday night, the orchestra did "My father's Mustache," which --with everyone singing the chorus-- was marvelous. And Robin still has the best voice in town.

And, Bill Lehman was at Fort Meyer:

From: Bill Lehman

We were surprised that you weren't at your own #1 event. After the excellent workshops with Ann and Christer Isberg, Trish and I trekked to Ft Meyer to hear the Love Dogs, a band out of Boston, and one of my favorites. Although primarily a west coast function (the band says they can be anywhere between 1/4 and 3/4 Lindy or West Coast, depending on who is paying them), about 1 out of 3 live songs was Lindy, and the floor cleared off nicely during those songs -- giving us a lot of room, but we didn't feel conspicuous. And Doug played 2 Lindy songs each break. It made for a nice and easy night after the workshops.
---Bill

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Sunday January 25, 1998

We spent the day in Westminster, Maryland. We drove there by way of Georgia Avenue (MD Rte 97) through urban decay, suburban sprawl and some very nice country. It was a perfect day, crisp and clear with just enough snow on the ground to look like winter, but the roads were perfectly dry. It was like a movie set. Westminster seems to be thriving, because there are no "Historic Downtown" signs. In fact, the place looks fairly prosperous, but it has a whole lot of small-town charm. Be certain not to miss a meal at Baugher's (289 W. Main St, 410-848-7413) They have absolutely wonderful breakfasts -- be sure to try both the apple and corn fritters. We spent the rest of the afternoon at the Westminster Antique Mall ( 433 Hahn Road, 410-848-5533). We were succcessful in bringing back two issues of Life Magazine with Lindy content, one for Daniel and one for Rachel. Check the section on Life Magazines for more details.

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Monday January 26, 1998

Iver Cooper gave us a video of a great new move --- a "Double Driveshaft". We spent the evening practicing this until we were black and blue. We finally managed to get it approximately correct and called it a night. I dropped in on the Chevy Chase Ballroom to deliver a copy of Life Magazine to Daniel Fierer. I managed to spend about 45 minutes talking and schmoozing. I really like Monday nights at Chevy Chase.

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Tuesday January 27, 1998

We made our pilgrimage to Vienna Grille to further indulge in the "double driveshaft". By the end of the evening, we had managed to involve Debra, Carolyn, Psychoboy, Larry and Hutch in our struggle. We even managed to help Larry and Carolyn get the move down. Once again, thanks to Iver, the source for new aerials.

We celebrated two birthdays: Susan Lusi and John "Psychoboy" McCalla. The Vienna Grille Boys Choir was in fine form and we rattled the rafters. This week, we did the "Jitterbug Stroll" to Steve Mitchell's version. We missed Elizabeth Magin and her very fine collection of CDs.

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Wednesday January 28, 1998

We spent the day exploring Glen Burnie with disappointing results. No spectacular antique, vintage or thrift stores. No excellent restaurants. It was raining cats and dogs and perhaps we didn't see the right stuff. Any of you with special knowledge about Glen Burnie are welcome to send us suggestions before we write this place off.

Jennifer Comar reports on the new venue, Shine in New York:

From: Jennifer Comar

Hey Frank and Carole-
I finally had enough energy on a Wednesday to get over to Shine and check out what has been going on for the last month. It's located on the corner of Canal and W. Broadway, in what used to be the New Music Cafe. Roddy and I went after dance class, and we were there about 1/2 hour before the band started. The room is interesting, with lots of levels and seating areas, but it's dimly lit, (lots of candles), until the band comes onstage. The DJ plays a mix of very fast swing, (not good when you're tired), which no-one was dancing to until Roddy rolled up his sleeves and pulled me out on the floor. It was a good thing he had on ivory pinstripe pants because otherwise I couldn't see him, it was so dark, (following by instinct and feel - the same thing happens when they shine lights right on the dancers and your temporary blindness makes you unable to follow any sort of visual lead).

The floor is slow, so bring your slippery shoes. The band last night was The Camaros, which rate much higher on my "I can dance to this" scale than a lot of NYC bands. ( this is another event put on by my friend Neal Corl, who is interested in making his events extremely dance friendly.) The dance floor fits about 6-10 couples, depending on skill level, and can be made larger or smaller depending on how they figure the tables.

I think I would go again, (depends on how much I need to sleep that night) - they told me it was more crowded last night than it's been all month, and it wasn't too bad. Lot's of non-dancers hanging around doing the "cocktail" thing, so the air quality is not so great. If you're in town, give it a look. There are definitely better places to dance, but this is the only Wednesday night gig and it has alot of potential. Signing off for now,
---Jennifer

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Thursday January 29, 1998

Carole, "Dr. Daniel" Fierer, Julia Stewart and I made a small pilgrimage to the "Zoo Bar" to hear Sidney Banda and friends. Those of you who don't know, this place -- directly opposite the National Zoo on Connecticut Avenue -- is one of the city's great neighborhood bars. It is located in a large office complex that houses most of the city's psychiatrists and psychologists (it is commonly known as the "Freud Hilton"). The staff is incredibly friendly, but there is --- well --- no real dance floor. There is a small area in which the indoor-outdoor carpeting has been worn down to a point that one couple can do something like Lindy Hop.

It turns out that Sydney Banda is fantastic. Daniel and I agreed that we had never heard a sax virtuoso like Sydney. He holds forth on Soprano, Alto, and Tenor sax with equal fluidity and can evoke artists like Babe Russin, Vido Musso, Charlie Parker, Stan Getz and ---yes--- even Kenny G. In this astounding display, Sydney was accompanied by a gentleman on keyboard and a drum machine. About every fourth number was eight count swing, so we did a "perpetual jam", taking turns dancing in the very small space. This was the most music that I have ever heard squeezed out of two instruments. About 11:00 the duo was joined by a lady, mysteriously known as "The Queen" -- and she proved to be a vocal phenomenon equal to or greater than Sydney's virtuosity on the saxophones. The only voice that I could even begin to compare with hers in range and volume is that of Ethel Waters. We had an excellent time dancing and socializing with the patrons and staff. The best thing was --- no cover! AND the food is good. Sidney is there on the last Thursday of the month, so watch out for him. Anyone seeking to book a relatively inexpensive act for a small affair should SERIOUSLY consider Sidney. Write us for details.

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Friday January 30, 1998

We were at the supposed "Last Hurrah" at America. We were stunned to find out that the mysterious "Mr. Weinberg" from New York had decided to extend the engagement. So, Lindy continues at America. Here are the reviews:

From: Debra Sternberg

Frank, Frank, Frank, I am ECSTATIC about America! I still don't know why or how we're still there; Koerner and Cunningham will discuss it with Malik tomorrow. But boy am I happy!
---Debra

Sue Fedor contributed this mpre detailed account:

From: Sue Fedor

Apparently, the "mysterious man from New York" got a call from the governor and stayed the execution of Tom Cunningham's Friday nite gig at America. Rumor has it that the Pope personally intervened (ever since the shooting he just listens to the music). But nobody heard the good news until just before the festivities started, so the place was packed to the rafters. The second largest crowd ever. This meant that dancing was out of the question. You simply grabbed a hold of your partner and let the crowd lift you off your feet and move you around.

Gay, Dave, Steve and I did that "thing we do" again in the jam. There is a dispute as to what to call it. The "Carousel", the "Control Tower", and "The Vomitron" have all been suggested as possible names. During execution, all I can think about is Gay's bird-like fingers slipping through my hands, so I really don't have a clue what it looks like to the rest of you. I was told that Tom Koerner was concerned that Gay and I were almost parallel to the ground. He was in his "spotting" crouch, as if that would have helped if I had really lost Gay's grip.

We were treated once again to the "surround sound" of the wandering brass section during "In The Mood". Steve and I managed to thread the needle once again with a perfectly timed sidecar/straddle combination. Steve is now holding me up in the air (spike-like) until everyone in the room sees my underwear.

Speaking of underwear, Carole (the queen of oddball vintage items) found a lovely bustier, circa late 1950's--the era of impossible, Barbie-shaped womanhood. If Barbie were a real woman, she would snap in half at the waist (I hope you all realize that.) In fact, Mattel is correcting this with the new Barbie this year. But for those of us who want to carry out the illusion, I suggest you strap one of these babies on--it gives you cleavage, a waist, a tummy tuck, and a spinal re-alignment. Why pay thousands of dollars for surgery? All this, and lovely lace too. In fact, Buck was ready to take it out on a date and buy it a drink. He wanted to go out in the jam with it, but I told him to get his own bustier!

Dai Richards, one of our "far away" readers from the UK was also in attendance and sends us this:

From: Dai Richards

Hi
Just a note to say that I did in fact have a very flying visit to Washington but managed to go to the America last Friday. I was most impressed with the venue and had a thoroughly enjoyable time - and it was nice to see a familiar face - Tricia Reneau who I had met a couple of times in Herang, Sweden. So thanks for all the information and effort you put into sending it around (as without it I would never have known what was happening)
Regards
---Dai

Tricia Reneau has this review of the evening at America and brings news of a new venue which offers swing dancing:

From: Tricia Reneau

Lots of folks went to America Friday night thinking they'd get in one last dance before the joint closed down to swing. The word when we got there, however, was that the owner had agreed to keep the place swinging. We all were very happy not to have lost such a venue, but we good-naturedly griped about being "duped" into coming and putting up with the crowd.

In actuality, it wasn't as crowded as weeks past. The last time I visited America, I found myself not only pinched for space on the dance floor, but squeezed in the standing room only areas as well. At least this night, there were plenty of places to stand, watch and just socialize.

For me, the social aspect of swing dancing has become my favorite activity. I often find myself passing up perfectly danceable tunes in favor of chatting about anything from the imperiled presidency to the virtues of Bleyer shoes. This Friday night, I spent significant minutes gushing over Chris Bamberger's new vintage dress acquisition, empathizing with Eric Celarier's job search challenges, and reviewing boogie woogie footwork with Liz Turner. To my great delight, I was surprised by the sudden appearance of Dai Richards, a U.K. dancer whom I seem to keep bumping into when in national capital cities such as London, Stockholm and now Washington, D.C. In D.C. just for the night, he took me on a few lovely swings around the dance floor.

At 11:30, Dr. "Woof-Woof" Dan and I left for Fellini in downtown Washington, D.C. Previous La Belle Excentrique swing mavens Tina and Emily have now set up shop at this chic Italian grill in the heart of the Connecticut Avenue and M Street nightlife scene. Dubbed "The Cotton Club," this every-Friday-night event features the unique jazz, swing, and big band song mix that is Tina and Emily's trademark. Tina, for example, enjoys alternating between the modern swing sounds of Royal Crown Revue and classic Duke Ellington. While these transitions were not necessarily smooth in feel, the crowd of mostly non-swing dancers didn't seem to mind a bit. Yea, verily, it was to my surprise that I witnessed a crowd of hip, black-clad yuppies boogie down in separated fashion--as if in a discotheque--to the tune of Sing, Sing, Sing.

Any new venue takes a bit of time to find its mood and feel, and it was apparent Fellini is in that evolutionary stage. As a swing hangout, Fellini has its share of drawbacks: One must inhale a good quantity of cigar and cigarette smoke; elegant attire is a must; the cover charge is steep for no live band ($10); and the dance floor--which can accommodate no more than 10 couples--is rather small. Nevertheless, the floor is wood parquet, the joint has class, and the swing music does represent a nice alternative to that to which we have become accustomed. Also, glowing newspaper reviews of Fellini's cuisine may make it especially attractive for dining before dancing.

It is clear the current clientele at Fellini spends copious amounts of money on drinks and cigars. Because this is not the case with swing dancers, "The Cotton Club" must find a balance between attracting both the money spenders and the dancers. My fear is that a bevy of swing dancers will intimidate other patrons who would otherwise take to the dance floor and do the bump to Benny Goodman. While we as swing dancers may scorn this type of dancing, we must strive to encourage participation rather than snub the efforts of others.

All in all, "The Cotton Club" at Fellini has great potential, and I hope the swing dance crowd will support this new venue. We are now fortunate in D.C. to have several venues from which to choose for Friday night dancing. The scene at America endures, and a new scene has emerged!

Fellini is at 1800 M Street, N.W. (enter from 18th Street). Doors open at 10:00 p.m. Jacket required. Table and dinner reservations are available.
---Tricia

Cherri Harris gives us this review of Ben Rathbone's dance at Thomas Jefferson High School:

From: Cherri Harris

Frank:
While most of you were savoring what turned out to be not the last Friday at America (thankfully), Carolyn, John, Joe DeLucia and I went to Thomas Jefferson HS to hear Ben Rathbone DJ'ing some lindy and other swing/dance tunes. John and Carolyn were there to do a demo (a wonderful 3-minute, high-speed dance) and teach a short 6-count lesson, and Joe and I were just looking forward to a large, uncrowded dance floor. There were well over 120 kids, most who were really interested in learning. A few I recognized from Glen Echo. Many came up to us to learn more steps, and Joe and I ended up showing them Charleston and the tuck turn (correctly, I hope). Several were imitating the now famous John's pecking move and my newly-learned Jenny Manlove swivels by the time we left. It was really alot of fun and very energizing. The kids were acting like with the dance they had a new-found toy or something, and it was nice to be part of it. Ben did a great job of picking out songs, and I even got to dance a little of Sing, Sing, Sing with him.
---Cherri

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Saturday January 31, 1998

We were joined by Jim and Elizabeth Engel, Elizabeth's brother and his wife, Tom Koerner and Carolyn Biczel, Steve Cowles and Carla Heiney, Buck and Grace, Jeff Booth, Peggy Hepburn, Andrea MacIntosh, Jack Hilton, and Lizzie Hess at the Sevilles gig at the American Legion in Cheverley. This was a fundraiser by a Motorcycle Association and there was Free Beer. Actually, most of the bikers were a very tame lot who seem to have paid for their colors with their AARP Gold Cards. It was my impression that we had taken Lindy Hop to your drywall contractor. The good thing was that most of these guys were too macho to dance, so we basically had the floor and the Sevilles to ourselves. The downside was that these guys were so macho that they smoked the air dark blue. Actually, everyone was quite friendly. The ladies (mostly) looked on and had some very friendly comments, although I didn't see anyone that I (or John McCalla, or Arnold Schwartzenegger for that matter...) could kip. The Sevilles were spectacular and the highlight of the evening was Tom Koerner leading the entire crowd in The Locomotion. At about 12:30 am, enough free beer had flowed that the crowd began to feel that it could dance. We beat a hasty retreat.

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