The Frankie Trifecta is a celebration of the centennial of dance legend Frankie Manning, the most celebrated Lindy Hop dancer in history. Thanks to some of New York’s long-time swing producers, dancers from around the world have new reasons to come to Frankie’s hometown, New York City, and participate in his 100th birthday celebration.
Swing dancer extraordinaire Frankie Manning was a leading dancer at Harlem’s legendary Savoy Ballroom where, in the 1930s, he revolutionized the course of the Lindy Hop with his Lindy air step. As a featured dancer and chief choreographer for the spectacular Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers, Manning created the timeless synchronized ensemble Lindy routine that has been used as the ultimate inspiration for Lindy Hoppers of today. He performed in numerous films (including Hellzapoppin‘), and entertained on stages around the world with jazz greats Ethel Waters, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Cab Calloway.
As the music of the Swing era gave way to new sounds and differing trends, Frankie took a job in the Post Office, where he worked for thirty years until being rediscovered by a new generation of young enthusiastic dancers. He was in constant demand and motion, teaching, choreographing, and performing globally. He won a 1989 Tony Award for his choreography in Black and Blue, and trained Denzel Washington for the dancing scenes in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X. Frankie’s works were chronicled in hundreds of articles and news programs (including a stunning interview on ABC’s 20/20); and, as the world’s leading authority on the Lindy, Manning is highlighted in Ken Burns’ acclaimed documentary, Jazz.
Friday, May 23 – 8:00pm to 2:30am
Frankie’s Centennial Savoy Ball
Edison Ballroom – 240 West 47th Street, Manhattan
Saturday, May 24 – 9:00pm to 2:00am
Stomp for Frankie, a Swingin’ Jubilee
The JCC – 334 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan
Sunday, May 25 – 7:00pm – Midnight
Celebrating Frankie
Saint Jean’s – 184 East 76th Street, Manhattan
Trifecta (All Three Nights) – $150
Savoy Ball – $110 in Advance by May 8th / $120 after May 8th / $145 at Door
Stomp for Frankie – $30 for Dancing / $50 Specialty Dance Workshop + Dance
Celebrating Frankie – $18 at Door
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