SWINGTIME CANTEEN
The Star-Spangled Musical Hit!
June 19 thru July 5, 2026
Right in time for the Fourth of July, get ready to swing into the 1940s with an all-female cast of powerhouse performers who sing, dance, act—and they play the instruments too!
Swingtime Canteen is a high-energy musical salute to a team of women who lifted soldiers’ spirits during World War II, featuring beloved 1940s hits like “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree,” “I’ll Be Seeing You,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” and more. Bursting with heart, humor, and harmony, this joyful celebration reminds us that even in uncertain times, music and unity can light the way.
Set in 1944, the show follows Hollywood star Marian Ames and her all-girl musical troupe as they travel overseas to entertain the American troops. Through classic wartime tunes, backstage antics, and touching moments of camaraderie, these five women deliver a spirited USO-style performance that captures courage, connection, and the power of music to bring people together.
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Created and Written by Linda Thorsen Bond, William Repicci & Charles Busch
Featuring the Hit Songs of the 1940s!
Orchestrations and Vocal Arrangements by Bob McDowell
Additional Material by Dick Gallagher
Directed by Carl Andress
Choreographed by Krystyna Resavy
Music Direction by Eric Thomas Johnson
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RUN TIME: 2 hours including one 15-minute intermission.
AGE RECOMMENDATION: Recommended for ages 10 and up. A joyful and uplifting WWII–era musical filled with popular hit songs from the 1940’s, infectious energy, and heartfelt moments. Appropriate for families – a feel-good experience that audiences of all ages can enjoy together!
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Inspired by real WWII canteens: The show is set in a London underground canteen modeled after the real-life entertainment hubs that boosted morale for Allied troops during World War II.
A jukebox of the 1940s: Featuring swing-era favorites made famous by the Andrews Sisters, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and more—music audiences will instantly recognize and love.
Women on the front lines: The show spotlights strong, funny, and fearless women who kept spirits high while the world was at war.
An American story abroad: Though set in London, the show celebrates American performers and soldiers bringing joy, hope, and music overseas.
Big heart, small cast: With just a handful of performers playing multiple musical instruments, Swingtime Canteen delivers enormous energy and charm. If you enjoyed our production of Million Dollar Quartet, you’ll love Swingtime Canteen!
Swingtime Canteen premiered Off-Broadway at The Blue Angel Theatre in New York City on February 24, 1995. Starring two-time TONY Award nominee, Alison Fraser and Emily Loesser, daughter of the legendary Broadway and Hollywood composer, Frank Loesser (Guys & Dolls, How to Succeed in Business) and the show features several of his classic songs!
Maxene Andrews, of the great Andrews Sisters, appeared as a special guest star for several weeks of the original production’s run!The original cast was featured in a starry lineup in the Times Square celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the ending of WWII in 1995.
“Featuring 30-odd songs, including an Andrews Sisters medley, a rendition of "I'll Be Seeing You" that could tear your heart out, and a "Sing, Sing, Sing" that had the place jumping!” — The New York Times
