UPCOMING HCD WEST HARTFORD SWING DANCES
August: No dance.
Friday, September 11, we’ll be swinging to one of our favorite bands and arguably one of the best swing bands in Connecticut (if not the Northeast), Eight to the Bar. Take a listen to their latest single, “Lonely Sparrow,” here; read all about this terrific band here; and catch up with them on Facebook here.
♦ October 2: Red Satin
♦ November 6: Roger Ceresi’s All Starz
♦ December 11: The Cartells
Not enough swing for you? Check out HCD’s other swing-dance events, HCD Swing Jam, held in Wethersfield on the fourth Saturday evening of every month (except July and August). More information here.
THE PARTICULARSIn sheer numbers of dancers, the monthly HCD West Hartford Swing dance, usually held on the first Friday evening of every month, is our most popular event. It’s not unusual to have more than 200 dancers come out for this dance. And for good reasons: we bring in the best bands from New York City, Boston, and all around New England; the air conditioned West Hartford Town Hall auditorium’s wooden dance floor is truly made for swing; and there are always lots of eager dancers waiting to dance with you. The dances are from 8:00–10:30, but if you’re newish to swing dancing, from 7:00–8:00 there’s a free beginner’s workshop taught by a professional dance instructor—also a perfect opportunity to meet lots of other dancers. Swing basics are covered in the first 20 minutes of the lesson, so we ask that you be on time. Those not taking the lesson will be asked to wait upstairs until the lesson is over. See a video of one of our dances here.
ADMISSION
General admission to the dance is $15, $5 for students under 25 with a school ID, and free for children 12 and under. To get in free, volunteer your time for 45 minutes. To be included on our roster of volunteers, complete the form below with your name, email address, and “I’D LIKE TO VOLUNTEER” in the Subject field.
NOT JUST FOR DANCERS
HCD West Hartford Swing dances are for dancers, sure, but they’re for concert goers, too. We bring in the very best bands from all over New England, and you can enjoy them, even if you don’t dance, from comfortable seating on the balcony overlooking the stage and dance floor.
A free swing workshop taught by a professional dance instructor before the dance begins.
View a video of a typical HCD West Hartford Swing dance here.
IN MEMORY OF NATE EVANS
mmWe are sad to announce the tragic loss of one of our HCD West Hartford Swing committee members, Nate Evans. Nate and his sister, Lisa, took turns giving the introductory lesson before each monthly dance and taking on DJ duties when the bands took their break.
mmNate was part of a well-known local dance family. He and Lisa began dancing as children, inspired by their mother, Michèle Evans, who founded and taught at Hartford Ballroom. When Michèle retired, Nate and Lisa proudly carried on her legacy by taking over Hartford Ballroom.
mmNate was an exceptional dancer, a dynamic teacher, and talented performer. He was a beloved member of our dance family and was instrumental in building a welcoming and vibrant dance community.
mmThe HCD West Hartford Swing community gratefully acknowledges Nate’s many contributions to dance, and the warmth, generosity, and enthusiasm he shared with so many. We are honored to have known him, and his legacy will continue to inspire dancers for years to come.
mmA celebration of Nate’s life will be held July 25 from 3:00–6:00 at the Hartford Ballroom Dance Studio, 56 Arbor Street, Suite 411, Hartford. Food, drink, and music will be provided, and dancing is not required but highly encouraged.
The HCD West Hartford Swing Committee is made up of (l. to r.) Allison, Steve, Pam, Bruce, Kate (chair), Prudence, and Nate.
The HCD West Hartford Swing Committee will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Get in touch with them concerning HCD West Hartford Swing dances by completing the form below.
