Central Ave Dance Ensemble
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The Central Avenue Dance Ensemble
The Central Avenue Dance Ensemble is a multi-aged performance group led by Chester Whitmore. Our mission is to perpetuate and promote American Vernacular dances of the 20th Century. These dances include: American street dances such as Leonard Reed’s Shim Sham Shimmy, the Shorty George, the Charleston (1920s) and the Lindy Hop (1920s - 40s). These are in addition to dances derived from them like the Chicago Bop (1960s) which begat Steppin’ (1990s). We aim to show the connections between dance forms from generation to generation and their connection to music and cabaret; to show how American vernacular dances were influenced by African dance and were shaped by spirituality and slavery (liturgical dance) as well as were molded by rhythm and music (tap dance and Salsa). We aim to express the infectious healing qualities of dance, to educate audiences and to spread the joy of dance.
Recent Content:
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Title
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Event
Argentine Tango Fundamentals | Candombe Milonga Classes
Sunday, November 30, 2025 - 12:45pm
Sunday, November 30, 2025 - 12:46pm
Book page
Argentine Tango | Candombe Milonga
Thursday, November 27, 2025 - 9:13pm
Sunday, November 30, 2025 - 12:56pm
Event
The History of Black Dance in America - Part 2
Tuesday, January 25, 2022 - 9:08pm
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 - 11:30am
Event
The Los Angeles Public Library presents: "The History of Black Dance in America"
Saturday, August 21, 2021 - 4:18pm
Saturday, August 21, 2021 - 4:18pm
Event
A Night at Club Alabam
Friday, May 14, 2021 - 3:19pm
Friday, June 18, 2021 - 2:03pm
Video Embed
HBDA Tangovino Bottle Lights
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 - 5:25pm
Friday, November 21, 2025 - 6:48pm
Event
Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:09pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:09pm
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Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:08pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:08pm
Event
Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:08pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:08pm
Event
Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:07pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:07pm
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