For all Lindy hoppers around the world, see the letter below to find out how you can celebrate the birthday of a legend.

Lindy hop legend Frankie Manning will be turning 95 years old next May! To celebrate we are organizing the biggest and most spectacular birthday for him.

From May 21st -May 25th, 2009 (Memorial Day Weekend) lindy hoppers, jazz musicians, tap dancers, friends and supporters from all over the world will descend upon New York City for five days of dancing, live music, workshops, discussions, tours, competitions, performances, and much more. This will undoubtedly be the largest and most significant Lindy gathering of our time and an event you will not want to miss!

Live music is the cornerstone for activities throughout the weekend, and the lineup will include over 12 bands of all styles and sizes. The Sat night extravaganza will take place in the beautiful 12,000 sq ft Hammerstein Ballroom in midtown Manhattan and will include a battle of *three* of the most swingin’ full big bands in the world: The Harlem Renaissance Orchestra, George Gee and his Make Believe Ballroom Orchestra, and Frank Foster’s Loud Minority Band.

Lindy hop teachers, performers and legends from all over the will also be there to celebrate Frankie’s birthday. The initial line up includes Norma Miller, Chazz Young, Dawn Hampton, Steven Mitchell and Virginie Jensen, Ryan and Jenny Francois, Sylvia Sykes, Sing Lim, the Harlem Hotshots, Ninjammerz, and the Silver Shadows, just to name a few. And don’t forget the triumphant New York City return of the Hellzapoppin’ dance competition.

The most important aspect of the event, however, is not the bands, the venues, the workshops or the competitions; the most important aspect of this birthday celebration is you, Frankie’s living legacy. Frankie Manning has been joyously and tirelessly spreading his love of Lindy Hop and his unique expertise for over 80 years. For his 95th Birthday, let’s show him how much he has given us by coming to him and the birthplace of lindy hop from wherever we are to wish him a very ‘Happy Birthday’ and to thank him for all he has given us. This is a once in a generation event, and we hope you’ll join us.

Early-bird discount registration is now open at www.frankie95.com. We do anticipate selling out, so don’t delay! We already have people from 24 countries registered! Also, please join the Facebook Event page at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/event.php?eid=47706832118

More details will be announced over the coming weeks and months at www.frankie95.com, but in the meantime, mark your calendars, register early, start spreading the word, and stay tuned.

See You in New York,
The Frankie 95th Birthday Festival Team

PS: If you would like to receive periodic updates, please join our mailing list at http://www.frankie95.com/newsletter.php