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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Love Letter (Chester Whitmore)
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
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Absolute Beginner's Guide to Swing: Volume I
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 6:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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La Cumparsita
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:24pm
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A Brief History of the Black Roots of Argentine Tango
Saturday, March 5, 2011 - 8:16am
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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The Kissing Bandit
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:31pm
Saturday, September 26, 2015 - 3:54pm
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Why is Stepping Called 'Stepping'?
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
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Beginning Argentine Tango
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 11:12am
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Jitterbug History featuring White's Lindy hoppers
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:22pm
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From Swing To Steppin: Beginning Chicago Style Step Dance Course
Sunday, August 23, 2009 - 12:11pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Norma Miller Performs with Chazz Young at Masters of Tap and Swing
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
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