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
Harlem Nights Steppers Ball
Monday, August 16, 2010 - 4:20pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 4:46pm
Event
Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:06pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:06pm
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Chester Teaches Lindy Hop at Dance Dimensions Studios
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
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Introducing Jessie Mae Robinson
Thursday, October 18, 2018 - 4:09pm
Thursday, October 18, 2018 - 4:09pm
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Archive: The History of Black Dance in America (2012)
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 3:37pm
Tuesday, July 21, 2015 - 2:36pm
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2005-02-20 - New Creation Christian Faith Center
Sunday, February 20, 2005 - 12:00am
Sunday, January 21, 2007 - 3:46pm
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CADE Performs at USA Dance LA Halloween Ball
Saturday, November 19, 2011 - 1:58pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:26pm
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LAUSD Ballroom Instruction Fundraiser
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 1:12pm
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Tribute to Chester Whitmore
Tuesday, June 28, 2016 - 9:34am
Tuesday, June 28, 2016 - 9:35am
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Tap Basics | Chester's 8 wk SERIES!
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:05pm
Monday, March 8, 2021 - 1:05pm
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