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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Footage of Adele Astaire
Friday, June 27, 2008 - 1:42am
Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 1:37am
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What is Lindy Hop?
Sunday, January 14, 2007 - 11:00pm
Monday, December 31, 2007 - 6:03pm
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History of the History of Black Dance
Sunday, September 25, 2011 - 11:37am
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Monday, October 18, 2010 - 12:17pm
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 12:17pm
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
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Friday, December 28, 2007 - 10:15pm
Friday, December 28, 2007 - 10:15pm
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Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:18pm
Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:18pm
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Monday, October 18, 2010 - 3:42pm
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 3:42pm
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Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:59pm
Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:59pm
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Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 8:05pm
Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 8:05pm
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