Lincoln Center Kicks Off Midsummer Night Swing 2016 Season Tonight

New York's premier summer dance party, Midsummer Night Swing, returns for its 28th season, tonight, June 21, through July 9.

Midsummer Night Swing brings together people of all ages, at every skill level, and from diverse backgrounds for 15 evenings of social dance. Acclaimed bands will play as dancers Lindy hop, salsa, hustle, Charleston, tango, and more in a gorgeous, open-air ballroom in Damrosch Park (West 62nd Street, between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues). This season opens on June 21 with the Catherine Russell Septet led by Grammy Award-winning vocalist Catherine Russell, daughter of Louis Armstrong's long-time collaborator and musical director Luis Russell.

Highlights for the season include a celebration of the life and music of legendary artist, writer, and producer Allen Toussaint on June 25. The Allen Toussaint Band, with guest vocalists Irma Thomas, Cyril Neville, and Deacon John, will bring the sounds of New Orleans to New York. The audience can look forward to a night filled with Toussaint's signature blend of soul, funk, and rhythm & blues artistry as a producer and songwriter whose output ran the gamut from Ernie K-Doe's "Mother-in-Law" to Labelle's "Lady Marmalade" and so many other 20th century classics.

Latin Grammy Award winners Septeto Santiaguero travel from Cuba to make their U.S. debut on June 28. They have earned international acclaim for their powerful son cubano interpretations. The group recently released an album with celebrated salsa singer José Alberto "El Canario." Ismael Miranda, one of salsa's best soneros and a one-time member of the legendary Fania All Stars performs on June 22. Giving their final performance as leaders of the Bronx-based Charanga America, George and Margie Maysonet will say goodbye to fans on July 1 as they hand the leadership of the band over to sons George Jr. and Elliot during that evening's performance.

The Black Rock Coalition Get-Down Revue, featuring members of the Black Rock Coalition who are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, debuts at Midsummer Night Swing on July 2. Exploring the origins of rock 'n' roll, this celebratory evening crafted specially for the series will feature the music of giants Ruth Brown, Big Joe Turner, Wilson Pickett, and more. Teen idol turned consummate entertainer Bobby Rydell, featuring City Rhythm Orchestra, will bring the sounds of swinging Philadelphia to Damrosch Park on July 6.

For the first time, NewYork-Presbyterian will be the presenting sponsor of Midsummer Night Swing. "Staying involved within our communities has always been a vital component of NewYork-Presbyterian's mission," says Dr. Steven J. Corwin, president and CEO of NewYork-Presbyterian. "Our new relationship with Lincoln Center offers enriching and exciting opportunities to interact with the New York community. We look forward to collaborating together, now and in the future."

Other Highlights:

On July 8, dancers are invited to come in their chicest vintage Parisian attire and compete for best-dressed prizes. Tatiana Eva-Marie & the Avalon Jazz Band preside over the evening with French jazz and gypsy jazz.

On July 9, Dancing Classrooms will offer a free afternoon of dance lessons for kids. Dancers of all ages are invited to learn the fundamentals of ballroom before dancing with abandon to fun, family-friendly music.

Harlem Renaissance Orchestra brings the season to a close on July 9 with its annual tribute to Illinois Jacquet. Additionally, this evening also honors Lindy hop innovator Frankie Manning with Midsummer Night Swing's Ambassador Prize Lindy Hop Contest.

Tickets and passes go on sale May 18. Multi-evening Midsummer Night Swing Passes are priced at $84 for six dances and $170 for the full season. Four dance passes are available for $60. Tickets for individual evening events are $17.

Dance Ambassador Package. For $100, a group of four will receive admission to the dance floor, free bag check for four, and one complimentary glass of wine or beer per guest.

Each evening of Midsummer Night Swing is a ticketed event. The night begins with a dance lesson at 6:30 pm for all skill levels with some of New York's foremost instructors. Lessons are included in the price of admission. Live music and dancing begins at 7:30 pm until 10:00 pm. Dancing continues until 11:30 pm on June 23 and July 2 for the Silent Discos.

The Swing box office is located in the lobby of David Geffen Hall at Broadway and 65th Street. Tickets for individual events and passes can be purchased in advance at the David Geffen Hall Box Office or beginning at 5:30 pm on the night of the event at a box office in Damrosch Park. All major credit cards will be accepted. Tickets and passes can also be purchased through CenterCharge, 212.721.6500, or at MidsummerNightSwing.org.

Rain Policy: Midsummer Night Swing makes every effort to present each event of the season, as long as unpredictable weather allows. Performance cancellations due to inclement weather will not be announced until 8:30 pm on show night. In the case of cancellation, ticketholders are entitled to exchange for another performance or a refund. Passholders are not entitled to a refund. If a performance has begun and is cancelled after 8:30 pm, exchanges or refunds are not offered.

Silent Discos: Following their success the past three seasons, there will be Silent Discos, powered by Quiet Events, on June 23 and July 2. At the Silent Discos, dancers are provided with wireless headphones to listen to extended DJ sets after the live music ends at 10:00 pm. While casual observers see a seemingly bizarre public ritual as dancers revel to the "silent" beats, the dancers are actually part of an exhilarating public/private dance party. On June 23, Bill Coleman, DJ Rimarkable, and Qool DJ Marv will spin different sets in each headphone channel, creating simultaneous and ever-shifting dance parties. Gaylord Fields, Connie T. Empress, and Monica Sharp will be spinning on July 2. Silent Discos will continue on the dance floor until 11:30 pm. Wireless headsets are free with that night's live show ticket, or $5 at the door for the Silent Disco only, subject to capacity.

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Midsummer Night Swing 2016 Schedule:

Tuesday, June 21 at 7:30 pm

Catherine Russell Septet Swing, Blues

With her honey-rich vocals, charismatic energy, and royal swing lineage-she's the daughter of Luis Russell, longtime director of Louis Armstrong's orchestra, and pioneering bassist Carline Ray-Catherine Russell reigns over the dance floor at this opening night strutter's ball. When Russell strikes up her seven-piece band, the finger-snapping is an involuntary reflex that soon gives way to a full-fledged party.

Lesson: Evita Arce and Michael Jagger teach Lindy Hop at 6:30 pm

DJ: Dawn Hampton

Wednesday, June 22 at 7:30 pm

Ismael Miranda Salsa

Dancers will feel the full force of classic salsa with one of the genre's most celebrated icons. Puerto Rico-born and East Village-raised, Ismael Miranda formed his first band at age 11 and joined the legendary Fania All Stars when he was just a teenager. Under the starry New York sky, "El Niño Bonito de la Salsa" will ignite the festivities like only he can with melodious vocals, irrepressible magnetism, and unwavering passion for the music.

Lesson: Carlos König teaches Salsa at 6:30 pm

DJ: DJ Broadway

Thursday, June 23 at 7:30 pm

Thursday Night Fever featuring Joe McGinty and The Loser's Lounge Disco

Audiences are invited to indulge their shiniest, sexiest disco fantasies with perennial favorites The Loser's Lounge in a weeknight tribute to the iconic movie that catapulted John Travolta and The Bee Gees to superstardom. Keyboardist and cover song king Joe McGinty leads his band, deemed a part of "essential New York" by Time Out, in everything from "Night Fever" to "Disco Inferno."

Lesson: Maria Torres teaches Hustle at 6:30 pm

DJ: Bill Coleman, Additional Silent Disco DJs: DJ Rimarkable and Qool DJ Marv

Silent Disco powered by Quiet Events at 10:00 pm

Friday, June 24 at 7:30 pm

Mint Julep Jazz Band 1930s Swing **New York City debut**

This North Carolina-based "little" big band's goal is to simply keep everyone on the dance floor. Specializing in the great swing tunes of the '30s, the eight-piece band has been tearing through the Lindy hop competition circuit, leaving masses of new fans in its wake. Sweet and refreshing with an intoxicating kick, the band makes its highly anticipated New York debut at Midsummer Night Swing.

Lesson: Lainey Silver teaches Balboa at 6:30 pm

DJ: DJ Va Va Voon

Saturday, June 25 at 7:30 pm

The Allen Toussaint Band New Orleans Rhythm & Blues

with guest vocalists Irma Thomas, Cyril Neville, and Deacon John

Midsummer Night Swing will pay special tribute to late music icon Allen Toussaint, "one of the master craftsmen of 20th-century American pop" (New York Times). The songwriter and producer behind hits like "Mother-in-Law" and "Working in the Coal Mine," Toussaint and his signature blend of soul, funk, and rhythm & blues defined the New Orleans sound of the '60s and '70s. Irma Thomas, "The Soul Queen of New Orleans" and one of Toussaint's most revered collaborators; vocalist and part of the legendary Neville Brothers dynasty, Cyril Neville; and New Orleans's most in-demand bandleader, Deacon John, join Toussaint's band to celebrate the extraordinary life-and irresistible hooks-of their lifelong friend by keeping the tunes hot and the dance floor packed.

Lesson: John and Shoshana Krieger-Joven teach Blues Dancing at 6:30 pm

DJ: Jonathan Toubin

Tuesday, June 28 at 7:30 pm

Septeto Santiaguero Son **U.S. debut**

Right on the heels of warming diplomatic relationships, the dance floor heats up with the U.S. debut of one of Cuba's most essential bands. Winner of the 2015 Latin Grammy for Best Traditional Tropical Album, Septeto Santiaguero honed its sound at Santiago de Cuba's famous nightclub Casa de la Trova. Balancing reverence for tradition with an adventurous streak that has sparked collaborations with salsa stars like "El Canario" and Rubén Blades, the band knows how to keep crowds moving wherever they go.

Lesson: Carlos Mateu teaches Son Cubano at 6:30 pm

DJ: Ron McGugins

Wednesday, June 29 at 7:30 pm

Fleur Seule Ballroom

From five-star hotels to secret gin joints, Fleur Seule has been infusing 21st-century New York nightlife with the style and spirit of the 1940s. Fronted by platinum-haired, golden-voiced Allyson Briggs, Fleur Seule channels the romance of European jazz and the moxie of the all-American USO style.

Lesson: Jerry Feldman and Celia Gianfrancesco teach Foxtrot and Waltz at 6:30 pm

DJ: Gene Eagle

Thursday, June 30 at 7:30 pm

Evan Sherman Big Band Big Band Swing

Drum prodigy and bandleader Evan Sherman has been building buzz for his monthly late-night dance parties at Dizzy's ClubCoca-Cola. His 17-member entourage includes jazz stalwarts alongside a fiery new generation of musicians. Together they infuse jazz-age cool with a fresh energy that drives people to the dance floor in a spirit of joy.

Lesson: Jenny Sowden teaches Lindy Hop at 6:30 pm

DJ: Ryan Mascaro

Friday, July 1 at 7:30 pm

Charanga America Charanga

For one night only, the block-party feel of the Boogie Down Bronx blooms in the middle of Manhattan. George and Margie Maysonet, founders of one of the great New York charangas, are giving audiences one last chance to see them live and onstage. They bid farewell to performing by giving their fans one final night of summery bliss and endless dancing. Their sons join for the second set, taking over as bandleaders and beginning a new era of the family's musical legacy.

Lesson: Jimmy Anton teaches Salsa Pachanga at 6:30 pm

DJ: DJ Andreas

Saturday, July 2 at 7:30 pm

The Black Rock Coalition Get-Down Revue Rock 'n' Roll, Rhythm & Blues, Jump Blues

With a stellar lineup of musicians, the Black Rock Coalition travels back to the origins of rock 'n' roll. Revelers are invited to join them in a land of 1,000 dances where Ruth Brown reigns and Big Joe Turner dominates as the brawny-voiced Boss of the Blues, while Wilson Pickett, the Drifters, and Sam & Dave crank out the hits.

Lesson: John Festa teaches West Coast Swing at 6:30 pm

DJ: Gaylord Fields, Additional Silent Disco DJs: Connie T. Empress and Monica Sharp

Silent Disco powered by Quiet Events at 10:00 pm

Tuesday, July 5 at 7:30 pm

Gregorio Uribe Big Band Cumbia

Charismatic singer and accordionist Gregorio Uribe and his 16-piece big band spread the love with their "feel-good fusion of funk and Afro-Colombian rhythms" (WNYC). This is a band that loves playing for dancers, so patrons are invited to come early to learn some steps and then spend an unforgettable night perfecting their style.

Lesson: Rodney Lopez teaches Salsa/Cumbia at 6:30 pm

DJ: Mickey Perez

Wednesday, July 6 at 8:00 pm

Bobby Rydell featuring City Rhythm Orchestra Swing, Oldies

One extended live set at 8:00 pm

Everyone is invited to dress sharp and dance the night away with swinging crooner Bobby Rydell. A '60s teen idol both in real life and on screen in Bye Bye Birdie, Rydell is the consummate entertainer. And with one of Philadelphia's hottest vintage party bands keeping the beat, even the shyest wallflowers will let it fly when they play "Volare."

Lesson: Eva Carrozza teaches Lindy Hop at 6:30 pm

DJ: Phast Phreddie the Boogaloo Omnibus

Thursday, July 7 at 7:30 pm

Astoria Tango Orchestra with Daniel Binelli Tango

New York's vibrant tango underground bursts into the open air at this midsummer night milonga led by Argentina-born bandoneon star Daniel Binelli and his fantastic tango orchestra. Dancers will learn ballroom's most sensual steps and then get swept away by the romance of tango under the night sky.

Lesson: Jorge Torres teaches Tango at 6:30 pm

DJ: Amy Wilson

Friday, July 8 at 7:30 pm

Tatiana Eva-Marie & the Avalon Jazz Band Gypsy Jazz, French Jazz

With the Avalon Jazz Band in residence, the dance floor will erupt with the joie de vivre of an impromptu party on the banks of the Seine. Fronted by Tatiana Eva-Marie, "one of the finest rising jazz vocalists" (Vanity Fair), the Avalon Jazz Band infuses the New York swing renaissance with Django Reinhardt-style bravado, zazou boldness, and millennial cool. Dancers are invited to come in their chicest Parisian vintage attire and compete for best-dressed prizes.

Lesson: Roddy Caravella teaches Charleston at 6:30 pm

DJ: Cara Wolinsky

Saturday, July 9 from 3:00-4:30 pm

LC Kids Dance!

Free

Ballroom

Kids will certainly learn how to move with confidence and joy at the popular annual LC Kids Dance, led by the visionary folks behind the social-emotional learning program Dancing Classrooms. Dancers of all ages will master a few merengue, tango, salsa, and swing steps before letting loose on the dance floor during this afternoon of family fun set to music. Plus, dancers will get inspired to practice with a performance by the wonderful Dancing Classrooms Youth Dance Company. Recommended for ages 6-10.

LC Kids is presented by NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

Support for LC Kids programs and events is provided by Disney.

Generous support is also provided by Barbara and James Block, Joseph Bae and Janice Lee, Amanda and John Waldron, The Robertson Family, and Joseph M. Cohen.

Saturday, July 9 at 7:30 pm

Harlem Renaissance Orchestra: 12th Annual Tribute to Illinois Jacquet Big Band Swing

Swing is the thing at the season finale. Guardians of Harlem's jazz past for two decades, the Harlem Renaissance Orchestra summons the spirit of jazz legend Illinois Jacquet with high-octane renditions of tunes by the Count, the Duke, and the King of Swing. Always one of the most popular parties of the season, the night hits fever pitch as New York's best dancers face off for the Ambassador Prize, an homage to Lindy hop icon Frankie Manning. The contest is open to all ticketholders, and it takes place during the break between sets of the Harlem Renaissance Orchestra.

Lesson: Margaret Batiuchok teaches Lindy Hop at 6:30 pm

DJ: Ryan Swift

Programs and artists subject to change.

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Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts (LCPA) serves three primary roles: presenter of artistic programming, national leader in arts and education and community engagement, and manager of the Lincoln Center campus. A presenter of more than 3,000 free and ticketed events, performances, tours, and educational activities annually, LCPA offers 16 series, festivals, and programs including American Songbook, Avery Fisher Career Grants and Artist program, David Rubenstein Atrium programming, Great Performers, Legends at Lincoln Center: The Performing Arts Hall of Fame, Lincoln Center at the Movies, Lincoln Center Emerging Artist Awards, Lincoln Center Festival, Lincoln Center Out of Doors, Lincoln Center Vera List Art Project, Midsummer Night Swing, Mostly Mozart Festival, White Light Festival, the Emmy Award-winning Live From Lincoln Center, which airs nationally on PBS, and Lincoln Center Education, which is celebrating 40 years enriching the lives of students, educators, and lifelong learners. As manager of the Lincoln Center campus, LCPA provides support and services for the Lincoln Center complex and the 11 resident organizations: The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, The Film Society of Lincoln Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Juilliard School, Lincoln Center Theater, The Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, New York Philharmonic, The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, the School of American Ballet, and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. For more information, visit LincolnCenter.org.