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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Parker Walk Fundamentals: Connection
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 5:03pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Ain't That Something to Shout About
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, January 31, 2018 - 1:24am
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Oh, Babe! (Chester Whitmore with Peter Loggins)
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
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Absolute Beginner's Guide to Swing: Volume III
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 7:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Come Get to This
Saturday, August 8, 2009 - 11:08pm
Friday, August 14, 2009 - 2:58pm
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The History of Black Dance in America - Promo 2012
Thursday, February 18, 2016 - 6:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:38pm
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HBDA 2012
Friday, April 20, 2012 - 1:57am
Thursday, August 4, 2016 - 6:59pm
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Kirk's Get Well Video
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, January 31, 2018 - 1:19am
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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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