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
The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Friday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:26pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:43pm
Event
The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Saturday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:27pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:43pm
Event
The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Sunday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:28pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:42pm
Video Embed
Norma Miller and the Congeroos in Duke Ellington's Hot Chocolate
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Sunday, September 27, 2015 - 6:18pm
Video Embed
Chicago Style Step - Chester Whitmore Style
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Sunday, September 27, 2015 - 6:16pm
Video Embed
Ain't Nothin' Like The Real Thing
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Sunday, September 27, 2015 - 6:13pm
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Rock On!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Saturday, September 26, 2015 - 4:03pm
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Waltz: Anya and Danny
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Saturday, September 26, 2015 - 3:58pm
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The Kissing Bandit
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:31pm
Saturday, September 26, 2015 - 3:54pm
Event
Archive: The History of Black Dance in America (2011)
Tuesday, January 4, 2011 - 9:45am
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:32pm
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