From the classic costuming to the complicated harmonies, the SwingTime Dolls take their audiences back in time with the swing and big band hits that kept a country's spirits up during one of the worst wars of the past century.
Founder and manager Jillian Rossi took inspiration from her grandmother, a singer during World War II, when she decided to form SwingTime Dolls in 2016. She and the Dolls are all veteran Valley performers who love to lose themselves in the wartime era onstage. “We specialize in intricate vocal harmony,” Rossi says, “and that's what keeps us on our toes and keeps performing as a group fresh.”
To replicate the style of the era for an immersive show, the Dolls have studied the substantial effort that '40s women put into their presentation, from the victory roll, the pin curl and the bold, tidy makeup to choreography scoured from Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers films.
While the Dolls always take special pride in performing for elders and veterans, their sound is popular all over the Valley at summer concerts, theaters, restaurants and clubs. Featured nationally on NBC during the Phillies Alumni ceremony last year, they're in high demand around Memorial Day and will be performing in Times Square for Fleet Week.
“The most rewarding moments for us are when we encounter a World War II veteran at our shows,” Rossi says. “It's so emotional and heartwarming to see them reminisce over the songs and stand at attention when we honor our military.” The Dolls' talent opens a window for every generation to appreciate and reflect on this monumental era in our history.
Find the SwingTime Dolls online for upcoming shows all summer long.
