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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The History of Black Dance in America - Black History Month 2016
Monday, December 28, 2015 - 10:34pm
Tuesday, March 8, 2016 - 8:24pm
Event
The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Sunday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:28pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:42pm
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The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Saturday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:27pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:43pm
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The History of Black Dance in America (2015) - Friday
Monday, April 27, 2015 - 4:26pm
Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 2:43pm
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The Guys
Friday, October 1, 2010 - 5:48pm
Friday, October 1, 2010 - 5:48pm
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The Great Black Way: L.A.'s Central Avenue in the 1940s and the Lost African-American Renaissance
Wednesday, July 18, 2007 - 2:08pm
Monday, December 31, 2007 - 5:38pm
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The Ensemble Waltzes at Toys for Tots
Wednesday, June 9, 2010 - 12:26pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Video Embed
The Central Ave Cotillion Dance Ensemble
Sunday, December 6, 2009 - 3:31pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Video Embed
The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady (Charles Mingus)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 10:04pm
Thursday, April 23, 2015 - 11:29pm
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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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