Commemorate Black History Month by reliving the 1930s era of swing dancing, big bands and the Harlem Renaissance that spotlighted black musicians and artists. Think unforgettable Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Eubie Blake oldies, and the Lindy Hop, Balboa and shag dances.
Sponsored by Utah State University’s Big Band Swing Club, Harlem Nights is chock-full of workshops, dances and competitions. Dance duo Jeremy Otth and Laura Keat, who have won many national titles and performed on Dancing with the Stars, will be teaching several workshops, including “Dips & Flips” and “Solo Jazz Fun.” Seattle jazz band Glenn Crytzer and His Syncopators will perform popular tunes from the 1920s through ’40s. The Hellzapoppin’ Lindy Hop Competition offers a $1,000 grand prize and other cash awards. Other scheduled competitions include the Solo Charleston and Balboa Jack and Jill.
This opportunity to twist, shake and do a little fancy footwork to the beats of yesteryear is not to be missed.
Harlem Nights 2010 @ Various venues in Logan, 801-628-2842, Feb. 19-20, USU.edu/swing/HNDance/HNMain.htm