The Denny Ilett Orchestra presents The Big Band Swing Dance | Henley

Sat 26 Sep 2026 | The Henley Jazz Festival | The Denny Ilett Orchestra presents The Big Band Swing Dance | Henley Town Hall Ballroom, Henley-on-Thames | Doors 7pm | Tickets £25 plus booking fee from herehere

The Denny Ilett Orchestra brings a 17-piece big band with an all-star line-up to The Henley Jazz Festival. Specialising in classic swing repertoire, the orchestra evokes the sound and dance-floor feel of the 1930s-40s, with arrangements influenced by legends such as Harry James and Duke Ellington. The stunning Henley Town Hall Ballroom provides the perfect setting for a night of dancing.

Led by Denny Ilett, the orchestra features Simon Gardner, Tom Gardner, Stuart Henderson and Enrico Tomasso on trumpets; Ian Bateman, Winston Rollins, Pat Hartley and Mark Frost on trombones; Karen Sharp, Lisa Grahame, Richard Exall, Ollie Weston and Duncan Lamont on saxophones; Colin Goode on piano, Andy Crowdy on bass and Sebastiaan de Krom on drums.

Make a night of it with 1930s-40s dress encouraged and a prize for the best outfit, though dressing up is entirely optional. Swingland will offer a free swing dance taster before the orchestra strikes up, giving newcomers a few steps to try. With a licensed bar and a dance floor ready for action, it’s a rare chance to dance the night away to an all-star jazz

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