What |
Tea dances are afternoon dances that were popular in the 20s, 30s, and 40s, when big bands were king. They were generally held in hotels and, of course, featured a live band. One key part of the concept is that, as implied by “tea”, refreshments served are non-alcoholic.
The well-known classic big band Standing Room Only (SRO) launched the popular tea dances in 2006. They give the band members a regular opportunity to perform the music they love to play in a period atmosphere, while allowing guests a chance to listen and dance to live big band music. Like the band itself, the tea dances have evolved and been refined into a class act, attracting ballroom and swing dancers from the Ottawa area and as far away as Brockville and Deep River. |
When |
After a three-year hiatus due to COVID, Standing Room Only is excited to once again be staging its Sunday afternoon Almonte tea dances. Following the success of the February 12th, 2023, tea dance, there will be a tea dance on Sunday April 30, 2023, from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm (doors open at 1:00 pm). The dates in the 2023/2024 season are October 15, 2023, January 28, 2024, March 3, 2024, and April 1, 2024.
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Where
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The tea dances are held in the historic Almonte Old Town Hall at 14 Bridge Street, Almonte, Ontario. The dances take place on the top floor of the building, a beautifully preserved venue with a clean and spacious wooden dance floor, natural lighting, and wonderful acoustics.
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Refreshments |
A refreshments table offers delicious treats and a range of (non-alcoholic) beverages at very reasonable prices, cash only.
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Admission |
$16 per person or $30 per couple, cash only, reservations are not required.
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Parking
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There is lots of free parking in the Almonte Old Town Hall parking lot and on nearby streets.
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Dress
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Casual – optional period dress (1920s-1940s) is encouraged.
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For more information on the tea dances, or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact
John Haysom at (613) 563-7044 or john.haysom@gmail.com.
Click here to be added to the distribution list for notification/reminder emails we send out about two weeks before each tea dance. If this link does not open, you can also subscribe by emailing srobigband@bell.net with Subscription in the message header.
John Haysom at (613) 563-7044 or john.haysom@gmail.com.
Click here to be added to the distribution list for notification/reminder emails we send out about two weeks before each tea dance. If this link does not open, you can also subscribe by emailing srobigband@bell.net with Subscription in the message header.
