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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Event
Lord of the Swing - Ford Theater
Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:32pm
Thursday, December 27, 2018 - 6:35pm
Event
2005-02-20 - New Creation Christian Faith Center
Sunday, February 20, 2005 - 12:00am
Sunday, January 21, 2007 - 3:46pm
Event
Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:07pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:07pm
Event
The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Saturday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:27pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:43pm
Event
LAUSD Ballroom Instruction Fundraiser
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 1:12pm
Event
History of Central Avenue, Session II
Sunday, November 18, 2018 - 11:17am
Friday, June 7, 2019 - 10:11am
Event
L.A. Trade Tech Dance Ensemble Reunion '06
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:10pm
Event
Harlem Nights Steppers Ball
Monday, August 16, 2010 - 4:20pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 4:46pm
Event
CADE Performs at USA Dance LA Halloween Ball
Saturday, November 19, 2011 - 1:58pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:26pm
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Dance Fusion Fundraiser Dance
Monday, August 8, 2016 - 5:47pm
Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:54pm
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