Family Program: A Swinging Good Time: The Story of the Savoy with Lana Turner
A family programme celebrating art, history, and dance is planned, featuring a quilt commemorating the life and work of Frankie Manning. Guest speaker Lana Turner, a prominent figure in the modern Lindy Hop and swing dance scene, will share the story behind the quilt.
Celebrating a Legacy of Dance
The event will center around a quilt that honours Frankie Manning, described as a legendary Lindy Hop dancer and choreographer who significantly shaped American dance. Families will have the opportunity to explore the quilt’s symbolism with a museum educator.
Interactive Experience
Participants will also hear directly from Lana Turner about the cultural impact of the Savoy Ballroom and how Frankie Manning’s spirit continues to inspire. A question-and-answer session with Ms. Turner will allow attendees to practice historical thinking skills.
Did You Know? Lana Turner credits her father, a patron of The Savoy Ballroom, with introducing her to the art of swing dancing and the Lindy Hop.
Hands-On Creativity
Following the discussion, families will participate in a mini quilting workshop. Participants will design individual fabric squares inspired by themes of movement, music, and community, which will then be combined into a collaborative quilt.
About Lana Turner
Lana Turner, a New York City native, is a reader, writer, thinker, and researcher with a focus on art and style in Black culture. She works as a real estate professional and archivist, and produces chamber music salons and literary events. She is also the co-founder and chair of The Literary Society, established in 1982.
Ms. Turner’s work has been featured in publications including Animan (FR), Casa da Abitare (IT), Elle, Essence, Fast Company, Interview, The New York Daily News, New York Magazine, The New York Times, The Roo: Red Rooster Newsletter, Swing (DE), Time Out, Town & Country, The Wall Street Journal, and The Zoe Report. In 2024, she was honored by the New York Lindy Exchange for her contributions to jazz, dance, and culture.
Expert Insight: The event highlights the enduring influence of the Lindy Hop and the Savoy Ballroom, demonstrating how cultural movements can continue to inspire creativity and community engagement across generations.
The programme is designed for families with children ages 6 and up. Admission is $5 per person. Advance registration is encouraged, and all sales are final.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Frankie Manning?
Frankie Manning was a legendary Lindy Hop dancer and choreographer whose artistry helped shape American dance.
What is the Lindy Hop?
The Lindy Hop is a style of swing dance, and Lana Turner credits her father with introducing her to it.
What will families do at the event?
Families will explore a quilt, hear from Lana Turner, ask questions, and participate in a mini quilting workshop.
What aspects of this event resonate most with your own family’s experiences with art, history, and dance?