Central Ave Dance Ensemble
Primary tabs
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 date
Updated/commented date
Video Embed
Leap Frog Promo Reel
Friday, December 25, 2009 - 11:44pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Video Embed
Central Avenue Dance Ensemble Video - Maxwell's in the Argyle Hotel, March 2004
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Video Embed
Baby It's Cold Outside
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:45pm
Video Embed
A Tribute to Norma Miller (Video)
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Video Embed
Basic Eight-Count Step
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 2:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Pages