Harlem Roots + Rhythm Urban Dance Festival

Harlem, synonymous with the pulse of jazz and the sway of rhythm, has been a cradle of cultural innovation for decades. Central to this legacy is the Harlem Swing Dance Society (HSDS), an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the spirit of Lindy Hop Culture. At the heart of this society’s calendar is the ‘Harlem Roots and Rhythm Urban Dance Festival, an event that pays tribute to the ageless art of Lindy Hop (Harlem’s famed jazz dance) with Harlem’s Jazz — and its profound impact on the community.

Celebrating and Keeping

Harlem’s Jazz & Lindy Hop Legacy Alive!   6pm – 11pm

​6PM — Film: The Savoy King (60m)  Jazz Master Chick Webb’s Legacy includes the beginnings of Harlem’s famed Savoy Ballroom!  See Harlem in its heyday and what made it HOT

​7PM — Panel Discussion: Keeping Harlem’s Jazz and Lindy Hop Culture in its Harlem Home  (also Vintage Harlem Lindy Hop clips!)

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Featured Panelists:

​ Voza Rivers — The Arts & Culture Leader of Harlem tells of his experience with the Making of the Savoy King

Honoring Sonny Allen — The Savoy Ballroom and The Harvest Moon Ball – and beyond!  Living History of the 1950s Savoy Style of Lindy Hop

​Ralph Hopkins — Historian & Preservationist with The Savoy Manor, The Harvest Moon Ball, The Mama Lu Parks Legacy and more!   The 1960’s/70s

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8PM ––  FREE Dance Lesson!  Learn a little Swinging Lindy Hop

8PM — Social Dance with the Jazzy Sounds of the Savoy Ballroom Legacy! (Billie, Cab, Chick, Count, Duke, Ella and more!)

with the band  The Savoy 3 featuring Patience Higgins

Includes rare vintage dance videos!

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