The theme for this year’s Arizona Classic Jazz Society Festival was “Come, Swing with Me” and we certainly did! Held again at the San Marcos Golf Resort in Chandler, Arizona, the Festival showcased the composers, arrangers, lyricists and performers of the era. An early November weekend was met with beautiful, sunny weather and the hotel’s accommodations are always a highpoint.
The dance floors at three of the four venues were well utilized and at one point the Lindy Hop Exchange held mini-dance lessons for all to enjoy and contests for those limber enough to display their energetic steps. Dancers from both within Arizona and surrounding states applauded one another with intricate moves and balance-defying paces. The Inter City Strictly Lindy contest took place on Saturday. It is always fun to watch! The Phoenix Lindy Exchange was celebrating its 21st year as the Home of Happy Feet. Dabney Hopkins started the Exchange and he and his wife, Karen, are fixtures on the dance floors. With various partners, they encourage and inspire all their “students and members” to get out there and do their best. On Friday afternoon they led the second line parade with parasols behind Cheryl’s Vintage Jazz, St. Louis Stompers and Queen City Jazz Band. They rambled all around through the halls and outdoor pathways while snaking through the venues and patios!
Thursday night started out wi
