Hop along to Auckland’s Own Art Deco Day

March 14

MEDIA RELEASE

Hop along to Auckland’s Own Art Deco Day

Calling all gadabouts, flappers, swells and spivs…

Highwic is hosting the Art Deco Day Out on April 7, featuring live jazz, spot prizes, dancing, special exhibitions and vintage cars recalling the golden days of the 1920s and 30s – the height of the Art Deco movement. Refreshments will also be available for sale on-site.

Jazz artists performing on the day will include the Leprechauns and the St Stephen’s College Jazz Band who featured in last year’s Art Deco Day.

“This year we’ll also be joined by Swing Out Central who’ll demonstrate some dances from the 1920s and 30s and provide the opportunity for other keen dancers to ‘cut a rug’,” says the Manager of Highwic, Cheryl Laurie.

The success of Swing Out Central – Auckland’s largest Swing Dance school – is a direct reflection of the growing popularity of recreational dancing according to Director Natasya Yusoff.

“We’re really looking forward to the Art Deco Day Out, which will give us an opportunity to demonstrate some of the dances that are associated with that time including – of course – the Charleston,” she says.

Synonymous with flappers and other such flibbertigibbets, the Charleston was seen as daring and provocative, giving young women in the 1920s a feeling of freedom and empowerment.

“Dancing the Charleston was their way of rebelling against prohibition, and mocking ‘dries’ – those who supported the banning of liquor,” she says.

“Eventually over time the music changed from hot jazz to swing jazz, and the dance evolved in turn from the Charleston into the Lindy hop. We’ll be demonstrating both these classic dances that epitomised the jazz and swing eras, and more.”

Art Deco fans are encouraged to dress up in 1920s-style dress (if they wish), pack a picnic and head down to Highwic for the Westfield-sponsored Art Deco Day Out.

A large marquee – courtesy of Castles Marquee Hire – will provide shelter or shade as required, making the show an all-weather event.

“Last year’s show was a great success, and we’re sure this year’s will be even bigger and better,” says Cheryl.

Don’t miss Auckland’s Own Art Deco Day Out, April 7, 1-6pm – entry to the grounds free; $7 per adult to explore Highwic. People wanting to display their classic cars should ring ahead to book a space – Ph 09-524-5729.

ENDS

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