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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Title
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Event
Archive: The Origins of Black Dance (2014)
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 3:33pm
Tuesday, July 21, 2015 - 2:39pm
Event
Dunham Tradition
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:09pm
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:09pm
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CADE performs at 2nd Annual Tango On The Streets
Saturday, November 19, 2011 - 2:02pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:25pm
Event
Vernacular Jazz Workshop
Monday, April 30, 2018 - 8:15pm
Monday, April 30, 2018 - 8:15pm
Event
Chester Whitmore Dancing in the Hood with the Opus One Big Band
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
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The History of Black Dance in America Photo Exhibition and Fundraiser
Wednesday, February 24, 2016 - 4:23pm
Wednesday, August 17, 2016 - 3:24pm
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2005-02-20 - Pan-African American Film and Arts Festival
Sunday, February 20, 2005 - 12:00am
Sunday, January 21, 2007 - 3:46pm
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The Best of The History of Black Dance in America
Monday, February 8, 2021 - 8:05pm
Wednesday, March 3, 2021 - 11:01am
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LACC Dance Concert
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:09pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:14pm
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Sandra Giles: CADE Performs at Sandra Giles Birthday Party
Tuesday, July 6, 2010 - 7:23pm
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:23pm
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