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Arts, Local

Swinging time at WTA’s Gateway

Chris Graham

The ACME Swing Mfg. Co, an ecstatically fun band, will return to WTA’s Gateway with its unique version of  hot swing on Saturday, Jan. 18. Noted for their “jazz music that you can dance to!” ACME’s powerhouse lineup will provide the best hot jazz combo this side of The Cotton Club.

Acme Swing Band 4“The Acme is one of our most popular musical ensembles,” said Clair Myers, WTA’s Executive Director. “ We are so happy to have them back for an 8:00 pm performance.”

According to those who know, the best description of ACME Swing Mfg Co. is “the love child of Wile E. Coyote and Cab Calloway.”  The group has a wide repertoire of pre-war tunes to make an audience swing to a hot jazz standard, swoon over an old-time ballad, or get on down with the occasional gritty blues.  ACME is not ‘sit-on-your-can-and-listen-music.”  Their infectious beat and enthusiasm makes any crowd move! From acoustic background mood music to an all-out amped-up swingin’ experience, they satisfy.  “Once you hear them, man alive, you’ll swear someone’s spinning a ’78 record,” said one of their fans. WTA’s Gateway is the ideal space to enjoy ACME.  The intimate jazz club environment, excellent acoustics, and welcoming atmosphere will make the January 18th evening an experience to remember.

The Saturday, January 18th performance is sponsored by Gayle and Frank Mapstone.

Advanced tickets for ACME Swing Mfg. Co. are $10 and are available online at www.wtagateway.com or by calling the box office at 540-943-9999.  Remaining tickets will be at the box office on the night of performance for $12.  Seating is limited.

WTA’s Gateway is located at 329 West Main in downtown Waynesboro.  Opened in August of 2011, the space has earned awards for its ambiance and excellent acoustics as well as raves from the many performers who have graced it stage.  WTA’s Gateway will close in June when the Alliance prepares for the opening of the renovated Wayne Theatre as a performing arts/conference center in December 2014.

Chris Graham

Chris Graham

Chris Graham, the king of "fringe media," a zero-time Virginia Sportswriter of the Year, and a member of zero Halls of Fame, is the founder and editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1994 alum of the University of Virginia, Chris is the author and co-author of seven books, including Poverty of Imagination, a memoir published in 2019. For his commentaries on news, sports and politics, go to his YouTube page, or subscribe to his Street Knowledge podcast. Email Chris at [email protected].