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While we’ve
received tons of encouragement and thanks for our
efforts, we continue to feel we get much more back
than we ever provide. It's a privilege and an honor
to contribute to the great tradition of the dances
and music of the swing-era. As someone once said
“It Don’t Mean a Thing, if It Ain’t Got That Swing!”
We look forward
to future Hepcats activities! To briefly reflect on the
first 11 years, a few highlights come to mind.
o
Teaching
the original swing-era dances, Lindy Hop and Balboa,
to literally thousands of people. It’s a real joy
to see the moment when the “light comes on” for a
new student; or when a “step, step, rock step” swing
dancer takes the challenge to become a Lindy Hopper;
and when someone discovers the unique and dynamic
nature of Balboa!
o
Sponsoring regular
swing dances (1-3 times a month)
in Lexington at venues where people can dance to
the great music of the swing era.
o
Collaborating with the UK School of Music to provide
live, authentic, swing-era big band music for Hepcats dances. The dancers obviously benefit, but
so do the musicians as they get a chance to see
authentic Lindy Hop and Balboa danced to the great
music they play. These
big band swing dances are a great way to get a
feel for what it was like to dance in the
1930's/40's swing-era!
o The establishment of the
Rhythm
Cats performance group to elevate the level of swing
dancing in Lexington and central Kentucky. Remember
“Lipstick, Powder & Paint”; “Opus No. 1”;
and “Non Stop Flight”? Who knows what’s next
for the Rhythm Cats, maybe “Swingtime in the
Rockies”, “Rigamorle”, or “Casa Loma Stomp”?!
o
Collaborating with other organizations in
Lexington/central Kentucky to bring quality swing dance
events to Lexington, i.e.
Swingin’ on Main.
o
Sponsoring one day and weekend workshops, some
featuring national and regional level Lindy Hop and
Balboa instructors.
Once again,
thank you for your support of the Hepcats and hope
to see you at a future Hepcats events!
Mike & Mary |
