Two enthusiastic audiences gave Swingmania standing ovations, October 23, when the Henry County Arts Council brought their Big Band sound to Christ United Methodist, Napoleon.

Typical of the comments were, “I couldn’t stop tapping my feet!”,  “Both vocalists were outstanding!”, “The buffet dinner was a perfect ending to our afternoon,” and “When are you bringing them back?”

Particularly popular was the original Les Brown arrangement of “Sentimental Journey,” chosen by northwest Ohio in an on-line vote as the favorite of the era.  The Henry County Chorale, under the direction of Janet Lyne, sang favorites in pre-concert sets for both shows.

The anticipated “Over 40” crowd was in fact sprinkled with younger listeners curious to know what had so excited their parents and grandparents about the sound of “Swing.”  “It didn’t take them long to find out,” remarked Council President Katie Meyers.  “They loved it, too.”

Based on the successful response to the initial program, the Council is planning to extend an invitation to Manager Jeff McDonald to bring his music makers back in 2012.