Bootleg Swing at Norwich Arts Centre, 19th September 2014. With The Moonshine Swing Seven, Natalya Umanska, Earl Harlem
Bootleg Swing at Norwich Arts Centre was a lovely event with some fantastic dancing, helped along of course by some dance lessons from the brilliant Earl Harlem and Stef. There was a prohibition theme to the event but of course drinks, cocktails were all available in the bar, which had some superb stencil artworks around really helping to heighten the 1920s mood.
The live music was provided by The Moonshine Swing Seven, a big band fronted by a singer with a beautiful voice. They had some well chosen numbers in the set, which included a song or two from Jungle Book and Bugsy Malone. They are certainly a decent band but could perhaps be a little stronger visually. I did seem to spend most of the time watching the dancing on the floor rather than the band on the stage but of course there was some terrific dancing going on which would not have been easy to ignore! Someone mentioned it would make all the difference if the bassist had been playing an upright bass and I think this is a good point.
During their break we were entertained by the wonderful Natalya Umanska with her excellent burlesque cabaret show. Whilst music continued in the bar after the live performances had concluded. I’m glad I attended this evening, there was a really relaxed and friendly vibe and it’s an event with good potential as it finds its niche and establishes itself within the strong swing dance scene in Norwich.
Natalya Umanska
Many thanks to Norwich Arts Centre, Bootleg Swing, Earl Harlem, Natalya Umanska, Moonshine Swing Seven
Words and photos (c) all rights reserved Richard Shashamane 2014. Photos not to be used without permission
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Norwich: Music City, UK 