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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Event
Chester Whitmore "Lord of the Swing" Teaches Weekly Swing Class in February
Sunday, February 2, 2020 - 3:30am
Sunday, February 2, 2020 - 3:46pm
Event
Central Ave Dance Ensemble performs at Santa Monica Tango Festival
Tuesday, April 27, 2010 - 1:08am
Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:20pm
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Salsa I and II Lessons at Dance Dimensions
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
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2005-04-09 - A Tribute To The Motown Sound
Sunday, March 20, 2005 - 12:00am
Sunday, January 21, 2007 - 3:46pm
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The History of Black Dance in America Photo Exhibition and Fundraiser
Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - 5:02pm
Thursday, February 4, 2016 - 8:06pm
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2004-06-04 - L.A. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority 75th Anniversary Gala
Friday, June 4, 2004 - 12:00am
Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 11:31pm
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Norma Miller Honored at 30th Annual IABD Conference
Monday, November 27, 2017 - 12:07pm
Monday, February 26, 2018 - 11:49am
Book page
Nupeir Garrett
Sunday, January 31, 2016 - 1:35pm
Sunday, January 31, 2016 - 1:35pm
Book page
Brian Yip
Friday, June 19, 2015 - 1:01pm
Saturday, January 30, 2016 - 11:07am
Book page
Atiya El Amin
Tuesday, January 25, 2011 - 12:39am
Tuesday, February 2, 2016 - 4:01pm
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