2025 Freese Brothers Big Band Dance Contest & Concert

 

 

Get ready to swing and dance the night away at the New Hampshire Big Band Dance Contest & Concert featuring the renowned Freese Brothers Big Band! This exciting event will take place on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM at The Park Theatre, located at 19 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH. 

 

Dance Contest with a $250 Cash Grand Prize: Show off your best moves in our all-ages dance contest! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just love to groove, everyone is welcome to participate. No pre-registration required—just bring your energy and join the fun! Second and third place prizes as well!

 

Open Dance Floor: Not interested in competing? No problem! The dance floor is open to all attendees to swing, sway, and enjoy the music.

Tickets: $25 per person, available online at theparktheatre.org or at the box office (603-532-8888). 

 

All Ages Welcome: This family-friendly event invites music and dance lovers of all ages to join the celebration.

 

Bar Open: Refreshments will be available at the bar (ID required for alcohol purchases). Concessions open as well.

 

Formed in 1982 by brothers Jack, Bill, George, and Courtland Freese, the Freese Brothers Big Band has been a cornerstone of New Hampshire’s music scene for over four decades. Originating from Pittsfield, NH, the band carries forward a family musical tradition that began in the 1930s with the “Homespun Broadcasters.” This 20-piece ensemble, featuring a mix of volunteer musicians and talented high school students, specializes in swing and classic big band music, performing iconic tunes by legends like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Frank Sinatra, alongside contemporary hits arranged in the big band style.

 

The Freese Brothers Big Band is more than just a musical group—it’s a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering young talent. Through their Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1986, the band has awarded over $100,000 to support aspiring high school musicians across New Hampshire. Their performances, ranging from free monthly dances at the Henry J. Sweeney American Legion Post in Manchester to concerts at venues like The Park Theatre, embody a commitment to preserving the big band tradition while nurturing the next generation of musicians. As band vice-president David Tirrell-Wysocki aptly stated, “What makes us different is that we play good music for a good cause.”

 

What: New Hampshire Big Band Dance Contest & Concert

Who: Freese Brothers Big Band

When: Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Doors open at 6pm. Contestant registration desk opens at that time as well.

Where: The Park Theatre, 19 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH 03452

Tickets: $25, available at theparktheatre.org or by calling 603-532-8888

Grand Prize: $250 cash for the dance contest winner

Additional Info: All ages welcome; bar open (ID required); concessions also open.