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Thoughts & Thanks, Beantown Camp 2011

Wow - Beantown this year! A wide range of levels and ages coming together for an awesome mix of Lindy Hoppers from 33 states and 8 countries. The energy on campus was full of happiness and joy and lots of Lindy Love. Frankie would be proud:-)

This was an emotion-filled time for us. Overriding everything has been losing my Dad in May. Preparing for Beantown sure kept us busy, but thoughts of my Dad have always been with me.

As for the week of Beantown - just incredible! Too much to mention, but it’s always fun to think of some highlights, so here’s a top ten in approximate order of occurrence:

  1. Chillin’ outside at the Saturday Happy Hour as the sun finally came out in full force.
  2. Gordon Webster followed by two nights of the Campus Five. It really doesn’t get any better.
  3. Dave Lasagna’s happy dance in the middle of the circle during the finale of Beantown Bounce, the instructors’ show.
  4. The surprise cake and ovation from everyone at the BBQ. It had been tough going for me up to that point and it really turned everything around. Thanks!
  5. Spending time with Norma Miller, talking about all the things she is doing and her future plans. Like Frankie, Norma really shows us how to live your life!
  6. Fun at the photo booth!
  7. #039;s Got Talent: Synchronized Swimming" src="/sites/default/files/resize/remote/a513359f8606180cffb915086d823bc3-200x150.jpg" align="right" border="0" height="150" width="200" /> Michael Jagger’s expressions as he listened to the judges’ commentary after the synchronized swimming skit at Beantown’s Got Talent.
  8. Late night Karaoke in the pub on Tuesday.
  9. The Wednesday night track performances and feeling overwhelmed with the looks of joy and accomplishment as another week of camp winds down.
  10. Catching up with old friends and getting to know some new ones:-)

Every year we find ourselves wondering how we can possibly top the last Beantown, but it has happened once again! It would not be possible without the help of so many. Our thanks go out to all the wonderful instructors, staff, bands, DJs and of course campers who all contributed to making Beantown an amazing week of dancing, classes, socializing, laughing and having an incredibly awesome time. Plus we must also thank Endicott College for providing such a beautiful venue and setting, feeding us excellent meals, and especially Patrick for going out of his way to help us make everything work. We feel so fortunate to have so many wonderful people in our lives.

Plans have already started for the next one. Beantown will run from June 28 to July 5, 2012. The format will be similar, although minds are already churning and ideas are formulating. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us for what is sure to be another amazing week of good times and good friends!

Just after camp is a great time for reflection and we are always looking for ways to make Beantown the best experience possible. We welcome feedback and appreciate hearing your thoughts and ideas. Thanks!

Sincerely,
Aurelie & Tony

P.S. Thanks to Beth Diener, Tom Hagar, Rich Moffitt, Brad Kellogg, Bruno Avard, Renata Shraybman, John Russo and everyone else who has posted so many awesome pictures!

Uptown Swing this Saturday; Week 2 of Summer Session

Summer is certainly here and we hope that everyone is getting out and enjoying the weather. This time of year we often get distracted with other activities, but there is still plenty of fun dancing to be had in the Boston area! Check out the regular venues which continue to run through the summer and the special outdoor concerts and events that may bring some different opportunities to get your groove on:-)

Uptown Swing This Saturday

Baby SodaSpeaking of getting out dancing, come on out to Uptown Swing this Saturday, July 16 at our beautiful venue, Brookline Tai Chi. This month we are excited to be welcoming back Baby Soda from NYC! The last time we got to dance to Baby Soda was at a Providence Swings dance in May. Everyone had a great time that night and now it is our turn at Uptown Swing! But there’s more! Not only do we get the fabulous Baby Soda, there will be a special performance from Joel Plys and Dominique which you won’t want to miss! BTC is conveniently located directly across from the Washington Square T stop on Beacon Street, has AC and one of Boston’s best floors for dancing, plus free street parking after 6:00pm. Beginners are very welcome and there is a lesson included at the beginning of the evening to get everyone started. You do not need to have a partner to attend. The music will be excellent for Lindy Hop, Swing, Balboa and even some Blues. Bring your friends and introduce them to a fun night of dancing! Uptown Swing Dance information.

Summer Class Session

Lindy Hop Swing Dance ClassOur new 6 week session of Lindy Hop classes started Monday, and as always, it is still possible to join in the 2nd week. Classes for this session include Beginner Swing/Intro to Lindy Hop Level 1 and Lindy Hop Level 2. They are offered on Monday evenings at the Ruggles Baptist Church near Fenway Park in Boston. Some leaders are needed! Please let us know if you are planning on joining any of the classes or submit an on-line registration. Thanks! Class information and registration. This will be our only summer class session. In September we’ll be back at Newton on Sundays and continuing in Boston on Mondays. Hope to see everyone out at Uptown Swing this Saturday:-)
Happy dancing,
Aurelie & Tony

New Class Session Starts; Uptown Swing

With summer in full force, some of the regular dance events are on hiatus, but outdoor events are around with opportunities for something a little different. Hop to the Beat continues through the summer months with classes in Boston and Uptown Swing dances in Brookline.

Summer Class Session

Lindy Hop Swing Dance ClassOur summer session starts this Monday, July 11 in Boston! The session meets for 6 weeks and includes Beginner Swing/Intro to Lindy Hop Level 1 and Lindy Hop Level 2. Each class is followed by a half hour practice time, a fun time to work with classmates on what you just learned:-) The location is the Ruggles Baptist Church on Beacon Street near Fenway Park (just at the Boston/Brookline border), close to several public transportation choices. Class information and registration. This will be our only session this summer. Sundays in Newton will resume in September.

Summer Dances

Baby SodaOur next monthly Uptown Swing dance is coming up on Saturday, July 16 with two special treats. First, we’ll be welcoming back Baby Soda from NYC. Second, a Balboa performance with Joel Plys (from CA) and Dominique (from Montréal). That sounds like a guaranteed fun night of dancing! Uptown Swing is held at our awesome venue, Brookline Tai Chi, located on Beacon Street in Brookline, right across from the Washington Square T. It has an excellent wood floor for dancing and AC:-) The atmosphere is fun and friendly and beginners are very welcome. You do not need to come with a partner. Uptown Swing Dance information. Happy dancing,
Aurelie & Tony

Summer Classes & Dances

We are back from Beantown Camp, although not quite caught up on sleep or sorting through the follow up. The entire week was beyond awesome and we’ll have more to say once we’ve got our thoughts together:-)

Summer Class Session

Lindy Hop Swing Dance ClassWe have one session of classes for the summer continuing in Boston at Ruggles Church near Fenway Park. (Sundays in Newton will resume in September.) The 6 week session starts on Monday, July 11 and includes Beginner Swing/Intro to Lindy Hop Level 1 and Lindy Hop Level 2. Each class is followed by a half hour practice time. Class information. If you are planning to attend any of these classes and have not already done so, it would be helpful if you would submit an on-line registration to speed up check-in. You can pay in advance by credit card through PayPal or at the class by cash or check. Thanks! Class Registration Form.

Summer Dances

Baby SodaOur next monthly Uptown Swing dance is coming up on Saturday, July 16 with two special treats. First, we’ll be welcoming back Baby Soda from NYC! Second, a Balboa performance with Joel Plys (from CA) and Dominique (from Montréal)! The dance is held at our great venue, Brookline Tai Chi. BTC is located on Beacon Street in Brookline, right across from the Washington Square T. It has an excellent wood floor for dancing and AC:-) The atmosphere is fun and friendly and beginners are very welcome. You do not need to come with a partner. On Saturday, August 20 we’ll be welcoming back The Love Dogs, a local favorite and always a fun time! Uptown Swing Dance information. We wish you a wonderful holiday weekend full of fun, friends, food and fireworks!


Happy dancing,
Aurelie & Tony

Beantown Camp, Only 1 Week To Go; Summer Classes and Dances

Only one week to go!!! Beantown Camp opening day is almost here. We are still accepting registrations if you would like to join campers from 33 states and 8 countries.

Beantown Camp News: Only 1 Week To Go

Beantown CampNot sure what it’s about? Check out the schedule for amazing classes, dances and tons of fun:
Beantown Camp Schedule

Track balances are looking pretty good overall, although the Orange track (beginner/intermediate) could use a few leaders and the Blue track (intermediate/advanced) could use some as well.

Who wouldn’t want to spend a week with dancers from near and far, many of the world’s best instructors, 4 nights with 3 awesome bands (a double dose of the Campus Five!), great DJs, a beautiful location on the shore and many fun activities included. If this sounds like the vacation that you want to do, register today!

Beantown runs from June 23-30, back at the beautiful Endicott College campus in Beverly, MA. There are multiple packages and time periods to choose from for attending. You can find all of the details and latest information on the Beantown Camp web site:
www.BeantownCamp.com

Come share the Lindy love…you will be glad you did!

Beantown Open Dance Parties

If you can’t come to Beantown Camp, you can still join in for two dance parties at Endicott College. These dances are open to the public and both are going to be awesome, without a doubt! Discount door admission coupons are available on the camp website. (No pre-registration.)

Campus FiveBeantown Saturday Dance Party, June 25, 2011

  • Beantown Camp Shop
  • Evening Dance with Jonathan Stout and his Campus Five, featuring Hilary Alexander (Their Boston AND New England debut!)
  • Beantown Café & Game Room
  • Competitions
    • Strictly Lindy
    • Jack & Jill Finals
  • Not-to-be-missed Performances!
  • Cake-Break
  • Late Night dancing with Beantown DJs in Callahan
  • Late Night Alternate Room in the Chapel hosted by Boston Swing Central

Toni Lynn WashingtonBeantown Wednesday Dance Party, June 29, 2011

  • Beantown Camp Shop
  • Evening Dance with Boston Swing Express, featuring special guest Toni Lynn Washington (Another debut with this awesome combination!)
  • Beantown Café & Game Room
  • Class Performances!
  • Late Night Ice Cream Party
  • Late Night dancing with Beantown DJs

Dance information & discount coupons.

Summer Class Session

Registration is open for our next 6 week session of classes, held on Mondays in the summer. We’ll be at our Boston location at the Ruggles Baptist Church, located on Beacon Street near the Boston-Brookline border. It’s near BU and Fenway Park with lots of choices on public transportation.

Classes will be starting on Monday, July 11 and include Beginner Swing/Intro to Lindy Hop Level 1 and Lindy Hop Level 2. Don’t forget to plan on staying for practice time!

In September we will resume our full selection of Sunday classes at our usual Newton location as well as continuing Mondays at Ruggles.

Class information & registration.

Uptown Swing Dance

Baby SodaWe are continuing our monthly Saturday dances during the summer. Mark your calendar for July 16 with the return of Baby Soda from NYC and a local favorite, The Love Dogs, on August 20. Two guaranteed fun nights!

Uptown Swing Dance information.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at Beantown!

Happy dancing,
Aurelie & Tony

Beantown Camp: Only 2 weeks to go ; New Ferry Info

The countdown to Beantown Camp opening day continues! Only 2 weeks to go.

Beantown Camp News: Only 2 Weeks To Go

For everyone planning to attend who has not yet completed a registration, it would be a huge help if you get your registration and full payment in ASAP! There are packets to assemble and the college has rooms to prepare. We want your complete camp experience to be smooth sailing from the moment you arrive and the more we can do in advance, the easier for us to make that happen:-) The weekend includes competitions for all levels and it is still possible to sign up. The competitions are always a blast and come with a wonderful, supportive audience. Got soul? Why not sign up for the new Soul division? That does sound like fun! Also new for this year, we have sponsors providing prizes for each division and they are all awesome!

  • International Lindy Hop Championships
  • Lindy Focus
  • Boston Tea Party
  • Canadian Swing Championships
  • Aris Allen

Join us for our 15th year - it’s going to be phenomenal! (Really, seriously, it is!) Camp runs from June 23 to June 30 with multiple registration options. If you’ve never done the full week, this will be the year to do it. There is so much that you will not want to miss! The schedule continues to be updated as the class descriptions are filled in. Be sure to check out the camp forum for ride sharing and other information. This is a great way to communicate with other campers and maybe organize a door-to-door airport shuttle or request a ride from a local. For our local campers, we would really appreciate if you check the forum to see if there are any visiting campers you can help out. It is wonderful when we all work together to make this an amazing experience for everyone:-) Beantown Camp information.

Salem Ferry to Beantown Camp

Traveling to camp from Boston? Take the Salem Ferry! What a great way to start off your camp adventure. The ferry terminal is only two stops on the Blue Line Subway from Logan Airport and easy to reach from any other Boston location. The regular fee with all charges added is $11.50 one way and $3 off with an Endicott College discount. Here are the details provided by the Event and Conference Services:

The Event And Conference Services Department is pleased to announce a partnership with the Salem Ferry (part of Boston Best Cruises), in offering a discounted rate for all residential groups who stay at Endicott. The Salem Ferry operates daily between Salem and Boston Harbor, and is an ideal way to arrive to the North Shore, or to go to the city and explore Boston in a casual and fun way. In 45 minutes, the narrated tour will even give you a historical overview of the areas you’re passing by, such as Salem Sound, Marblehead and the Boston Harbor. There even is a bar on board where you can purchase beverages or small snacks. From the Salem dock, it is only a 2.5 mile ride to Endicott College. To receive our special rate, please use code 3911 when booking the tickets online. This code does not work when buying tickets at the ferry terminal!

Salem Ferry Schedule. Happy dancing, Aurelie & Tony

Summer Classes

The countdown to Beantown Camp opening day continues! Only 2 weeks to go. Check separate blog post for an update.

Summer Class Session

After Beantown, we will have one session of classes for the summer. Information and registration is now up on the website. As usual for the summer, there will be no Sunday classes. Mondays will be continuing in Boston at Ruggles Church near Fenway Park. Sundays in Newton will resume in September.

The summer classes will be starting on Monday, July 11 and include Beginner Swing/Intro to Lindy Hop Level 1 and Lindy Hop Level 2.

Class information.

BSDN Dance

The monthly Boston Swing Dance Network dance is this Saturday, June 11. This month features The Love Dogs! These Dogs just get better and always bring a fun and lively evening of Swing!

BSDN dance information.

Happy dancing,
Aurelie & Tony

Uptown Swing this Saturday!

Uptown Swing Dance This Saturday

This Saturday, June 4 is our monthly Uptown Swing dance! We are early this month as Beantown Camp will be keeping us occupied throughout June. Join us at our wonderful venue, Brookline Tai Chi, located directly across from the Washington Square T stop on Beacon Street. BTC has AC and one of the best dance floors around.

This month we are welcoming back the Mike DiBari Swingtet who always bring us a fabulous night of dancing! Beginners are very welcome and you do not need to have a partner. The music will be excellent for Lindy Hop, Swing, Balboa and even some Blues. Bring your friends and introduce them to a fun night of dancing!

Where: Brookline Tai Chi, 1615 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA 02446
When: Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 8:15pm-12:00am
Admission: $15 ($10 with Student ID)
Swing Lesson: 8:15-9:00pm
Band: Mike DiBari Swingtet
Beginners welcome, no partner needed

Uptown Swing Dance information.

Summer Class Session

Information and registration for our summer session of Lindy Hop classes is now up on the website. As usual for the summer, we will not be holding Sunday classes. Mondays will be continuing in Boston at Ruggles Church near Fenway Park. Sundays in Newton will resume in September.

For the summer, we’ll have classes starting on Monday, July 11 including Beginner Swing/Intro to Lindy Hop Level 1 and Lindy Hop Level 2.

Class information.

Hope to see everyone out at Uptown Swing this Saturday:-)

Happy dancing,
Aurelie & Tony

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