Time to pack your picnic basket and hop on the ferry! Sunny days are here, and our yearly al fresco tradition continues on enchanting Governors Island.
Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra invites you join us on this hidden gem just off the southeastern tip of Manhattan, nestled in the heart of majestic New York Harbor. Due to the past successes of our Jazz Age Lawn Party, our event will expand to a two-day-long festival this summer.
Under a shady grove of centuries-old trees, caressed by fresh sea air, a sprawling green surrounded by historic officers' quarters and 18th century naval ramparts becomes the setting for a true Gatsby affair. Widely anticipated by flappers, sporting gents and tiny tots alike...
In addition to Michael Arenella's 11-piece Dreamland Orchestra which plays both days, Gypsy-Jazz virtuoso Stephane Wrembel and band will join us on Sunday the 8th; his guitar-driven band serves up “Le Jazz Hot" like no other.
A wide array of music, activities, games and contests are open for all ages to enjoy:
Charleston and Peabody Dance lessons with legends Roddy Caravella and Paul Grecki of Sandra Cameron Dance Center. Vintage '78 records spun on a gorgeous 1920s Victor Credenza phonograph machine by Matthew Hinson (wait 'til you see the horn on this thing!). 1920s Motorcar Exhibition - lucky game winners will get a spin around the island in a genuine rumbleseat; hold on to your hat! Vintage clothing dealers and boutique milliners including Ellen Christine, Cassie McGregor and Leigh Magar of Magar Hatworks. They will all be peddling wares, so be sure to tuck some cash into your garter.
Croquet games hosted by The New York Croquet Club Horseshoe Toss Tug O' War Bathing Beauties and Gents Vintage Swimsuit Parade! (Sunday Only)...(a parade of hats may be include in the weekend as well...)
Pie Recipe Contest (Saturday Only)* - Categories: “Mom's Best", “Most Original", and “Hobo's Choice". Special Prizes and coveted gift certificates to be awarded. *Pre-registration required. To register, please email Sarah Liston: [email protected]
Schedule of activities:
Saturday, June 7th
Note: You must take the 11 am ferry to catch the very first act; ferries depart for the island every hour, and each ferry ride takes 15 minutes.
(All games, vendors and exhibitions run throughout the day)
11:30 - 12:00 Matthew Hinson spins his vintage Victrola Credenza while you stake out your picnic spot!
12:00 - 12:45 Beginners' Charleston lesson with Roddy Caravella
(You must take the 11 am ferry at the latest to make this lesson!)
12:45 - 1:45 Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra - Set I
1:45 - 2:30 Advanced Charleston Lesson with Roddy Caravella
2:30 - 3:30 Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra - Set II
3:30 - 4:00 Pie-Recipe Contest
4:00 - 5:00 Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra - Set III
Sunday, June 8th
Note: You must take the 11 am ferry to catch the first act.
(All games, vendors and exhibitions run throughout the day)
11:30 - 12:00 Matthew Hinson spins his vintage Victrola Credenza while you stake out your picnic spot!
12:00 - 1:00 Stephane Wremble, Gypsy-Jazz a la Django
(Take the 11 am ferry at the latest to catch this act; you don't want to miss him!)
1:00 - 1:45 Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra - Set I
1:45 - 2:30 Beginners' Peabody lesson with Paul Grecki
2:45 - 3:30 Bathing Beauties and Gents Vintage Swimsuit Parade!
(3:15) Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra - Set II
3:30 - 4:15 Advanced Peabody lesson with Paul Grecki
4:15 - 5:00 Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra - Set III
For more information contact All About Jazz.
