Midsummer Night Swing

For three consecutive weeks this summer, the Lincoln Center will host five straight nights of swing dance music events as a part of the Midsummer Night Swing series. The first installation of this fun and interactive happening at New York City’s leading center for the performing arts will take place the week of June 23rd.

June 23rd

The opening event will feature Jonathan Stout’s All-Star Orchestra with Hilary Alexander. This big band swing group plays music from the 30’s and 40’s under the leadership of renowned musician, Jonathan Stout. As with all of the events throughout the week, the dance floor will open at 6pm, dance lessons will begin at 6:30, and live music will start at 7:30.

June 24th

The second night will feature music from Nikki Hill, an emotional and energetic band whose soul is deep rooted in southern R&B and American roots music. Her contagious rhythm and joy is sure to provide the perfect sound to try out your newly learned swing dance moves.

June 25th

An absolutely beloved singer from the 80’s, Jody Watley will provide the live tunes for swing dancers on the night of Thursday, June 25th. Watley started out as a dancer on the iconic show Soul Train, before going on to found the band Shalamar. This night will also feature an after hours silent disco for those who want to keep on grooving.

June 26th

Native New Yorkers, Orquesta SCC will bring dancers an exciting salsa sound on the first Friday night of the Midsummer Night Swing Series. Taking a slew of different influences, DJ Geko Jones of Qué Bajo?! will curate an after hours silent salsa party.

June 27th

This week of exciting swing dance events will wrap up on Saturday, the 27th with a performance by Roomful of Blues, a band influenced by iconic songwriter Doc Pomus. Playing Pomus’ hit songs like, Viva Las Vegas and This Magic Moment, the evening promises to be nostalgic and super fun.

The Midsummer Night Swing series will carry on the Week of June 30th and the week of July 7th with more stellar bands and dance lessons from professionals.