Interview: Reasons to come to Madrid Swing & Vintage Party

Photo:
8/6/2017
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We spoke with Ángela Gil, Founder and Director of the international Swing festival The World Jam and one of the coordinators of the Swing & Vintage Party that will take place this coming July 6th at Noches del Botánico.

What is the Swing & Vintage Party?

It is a party that celebrates vintage culture in all its facets. The idea is to have a good time together, dancing, singing and laughing, getting into the spirit of the 20's, 30's, 40's and 50's. Everything related to vintage, swing and retro. Clearly this movement is booming and it is for many reasons, but mainly because it is a social activity, very fun and for all ages.

We are delighted to be able to count on high level musicians such as the Madrid Swing AllStars as we know them, who are visiting Madrid on their new European tour. Postmodern Jukeboxwho are visiting Madrid on their new European tour. In fact I haven't seen them live yet and I can't wait! I have heard very good things about them and I know several of the members due to their relationship with the world of swing, lindy hop and Tap dance, as is the case of Sarah Reich.

How did the collaboration with NDB come about?

Like many things in life, it's a matter of chance. I met Julio Martí, Director of SF Music and a great professional in the music industry, a few months ago at a talk and I immediately knew that we would make good friends. We want to bet on different, fresh and fun leisure alternatives. There are young people with a lot of talent and through our World Jam festival is what we promote thanks to the Swing Music Awards in which Julio is a member of the jury.

The collaboration with Noches del Botánico has been the most logical transition, since it is a festival aligned with our values, which brings together different generations, betting on a different kind of entertainment in a spectacular place and facilities. More than 3,000 people, food trucks, various stands, a brutal technical and human team, and... a lineup of artists this 2017... that really impresses. Few things like this are done and the truth is that we, the people of Madrid, are very grateful for it.

What can we expect on this day?

Everything! We'll start with an open class for all those who are up for it, with teachers from different schools in Madrid, followed by a swing jam, the Madrid Swing AllStars made up of the musicians and groups who work it every day in Madrid. Led by Carmen Vela of El Molino Big Band and supported by Daniele Grammauta of the Swing Godfathers, who will make sure that no one stops moving their feet. The ideal opportunity to practice what you learn in class. 

Of course, the highlight of the evening will follow: the concert of Postmodern Jukebox and their fun, danceable and catchy cover versions, so give it your all!

Postmodern Jukebox already came recently, why is this different?

This party is something different; it's much more than just a concert. Postmodern Jukebox will put the cherry on top of an already very special evening, and they will also bring new songs. 

This night celebrates the spirit of swing in all its facets, as well as other more modern cultural movements. Madrid has many micro universes and this party celebrates them all; this city has a special energy of brotherhood, community, support and respect. We look forward to sharing this with everyone who comes out on this day.

This open Swing class... How is it going? Do you need a partner?

All you have to do is come along! It is for all audiences and ages; it is a dance that can be danced both as a couple or alone. What is for sure, is that you will have a good laugh to start an amazing night. We are sure that more than one of you will end up signing up for a class...

Anything else you would like to say?

We are really looking forward to the big day! Thanks to the NDB for all the support, as well as to all the organisations like MAD for Swing or Tweed Ride, who have given you their support, as well as to all the Lindy Hop and Blues schools in the city that have been encouraged to give classes, I won't mention names because the list is endless... and we will unveil and present them in due time!

One last tip: buy your ticket at nochesdelbotanico.com and come dressed in period costume... there will be surprises!

Here is a video of what you will see at the Postmodern Jukebox performance.

 

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