Get ready to jump, jive and swing the night away as Philadelphia-based band Swing That Cat returns to The Rotunda for the seventh annual West Philly Swing Thing on Friday, Nov. 13.
The free event brings an evening of live music and dancing to University City, beginning with an hour of swing dance instruction before the nine-piece band takes the stage.
Attendees can learn the Lindy Hop and other swing dance steps starting at 7:30 p.m., followed by a live performance from Swing That Cat at 8:30 p.m. The band will perform selections from its latest album, 'LEAP,' released in July 2025, along with favorites from its earlier releases.
Known for its lively blend of jump blues, swing and jazz, Swing That Cat draws inspiration from the sounds of the 1930s, ’40s and ’50s, combining horns, flute, guitar, bass and drums with the vocals of frontwoman Michele Peraino.
“The most fun part of being in a nine-piece band is creating the best atmosphere for people to get out of their seats and onto the dance floor,” said guitarist and co-founder Chris Peraino.
The Philadelphia-born group has performed more than 400 shows at venues and festivals throughout the region and beyond, including the Philadelphia Folk Festival, Musikfest, Ardmore Music Hall and the National Liberty Museum.
For Swing That Cat, the annual event is about more than revisiting the sounds of another era. It's an opportunity to bring people together through music and dance.
“Jump Jive and Wail was popular during one of the lowest morale points in history because the feeling uplifted people, helped them shake off their troubles,” said Michele Peraino, the band's co-founder.
“Our music is not trapped in an era — it’s a call to action that makes you shimmy, shake, and wanna leap off your seat to dance your tail off.”
The evening's introductory dance lesson gives newcomers a chance to learn a few steps before putting them to use during the band's performance.
The seventh annual West Philly Swing Thing takes place Friday, Nov. 13, at The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St., on the University of Pennsylvania campus.
Doors open at 7 p.m., with swing dance instruction beginning at 7:30 p.m. Swing That Cat takes the stage at 8:30 p.m.
Admission is free with advance registration. For more information and to reserve a spot, register online.
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