Central Ave Dance Ensemble

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: 

Type Title Post datesort ascending Updated/commented date
Video Embed What is Urban Ballroom Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - 2:56pm Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:39pm
Event Dance Fusion Fundraiser Dance Monday, August 8, 2016 - 5:47pm Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:54pm
Event Tribute to Chester Whitmore Tuesday, June 28, 2016 - 9:34am Tuesday, June 28, 2016 - 9:35am
Event The History of Black Dance in America Photo Exhibition and Fundraiser Wednesday, February 24, 2016 - 4:23pm Wednesday, August 17, 2016 - 3:24pm
Video Embed The History of Black Dance in America - Promo 2012 Thursday, February 18, 2016 - 6:40pm Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:38pm
Book page Daigo Koide Friday, February 5, 2016 - 5:39pm Friday, February 5, 2016 - 5:39pm
Book page Harry Bowens Thursday, February 4, 2016 - 8:44pm Thursday, February 4, 2016 - 8:44pm
Event The History of Black Dance in America Photo Exhibition and Fundraiser Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - 5:02pm Thursday, February 4, 2016 - 8:06pm
Book page Jade Jerry Monday, February 1, 2016 - 10:50pm Monday, February 1, 2016 - 10:52pm
Book page Nupeir Garrett Sunday, January 31, 2016 - 1:35pm Sunday, January 31, 2016 - 1:35pm

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