“A Night in the ‘40s” will feature a World War II musical show and a big band orchestra, playing sounds of the era to dancing men and women dressed in the period—all in the shadow of the B-17 Flying Fortress Sentimental Journey.
The Commemorative Air Force Aircraft Museum invites you to take a sentimental journey back to 1943 with “A Night in the ’40s.” The glamorous event on March 17 will feature a World War II musical show and a big band orchestra, playing sounds of the era to dancing men and women dressed in the period—all in the shadow of the vintage WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber Sentimental Journey.
Besides being a nostalgic journey back in time, “A Night in the ’40s” benefits a worthwhile cause. The 20th anniversary hangar dance is a fundraiser for the CAF Aircraft Museum, located at Mesa’s Falcon Field. The organization is dedicated to keeping aviation history alive for current and future generations.
Doors will open at 4:15 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to come dressed in the style of the 1940s. Danny Davis from AM 1230 KOY will be the master of ceremonies. A pre-show at 4:45 p.m. will feature Forever Dance, performing a series of dances from the 1940s. Entertainment will begin at 5:30 p.m., with the Kathy Donald Quartet, a forties musical show with singers and a professional trio of piano, bass and drums, featuring Kathy Donald, formerly of Art Royer’s USO Show.
At 7:30 p.m., swing time kicks in, featuring the Sun Lakes Big Band Orchestra, playing favorite big band music from the war years. Contests for swing dancing and best dressed 1940s costume will take place.
Those in attendance may purchase food and refreshments tickets, including a barbeque plate provided by Taylor Rays. Tickets are $30 per person, if purchased in advance, and $35 the day of the dance.
“This is a great opportunity to recapture one of the most important and nostalgic times in our history,” said Rick Senffner, publicity director for the CAF Arizona Wing. “Events like these pay special tribute to all those who fought for freedom during WWII and allow us to look back on that piece of our past. The generous support from our sponsors demonstrates that they take an interest in the efforts of community events like this dance, and helping volunteer organizations like the Arizona Wing preserve our history for future generations. We greatly appreciate the help.”
Event sponsors include Comerica Bank, Hensley and Company, Taylor Rays, AM 1230 KOY and Alpha Creations Awards.
The CAF Aircraft Museum is an all volunteer, nonprofit organization supported only by membership dues, private donations and fundraising events such as “A Night in the ’40s.” No government funding or support is provided.
Tickets for the event can be purchased at the Arizona Wing hangar facility, 2017 N. Greenfield Rd. or at the event website. All admission fees and donations are fully tax deductible as the Commemorative Air Force Aircraft Museum is approved under IRS code 501 C3.
For more information, call 480-924-1940 or visit [http://www.bigbanddance.com]. For more information on the CAF Aircraft Museum, visit [http://www.arizonawingcaf.com] or contact Rick Senffner at ext. 210, or pio@arizonawingcaf.com.