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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A Tribute to Norma Miller (Video)
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
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From Swing To Steppin: Partnering: Basic Lead and Follow
Saturday, August 22, 2009 - 10:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Flamingo
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:43pm
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Walking Down The Line of Dance
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 2:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Norma Miller and the Congeroos in Duke Ellington's Hot Chocolate
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Sunday, September 27, 2015 - 6:18pm
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Savoy Ballroom Foxtrot
Wednesday, February 10, 2010 - 12:37am
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Groovie Movie
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:42pm
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Essence of Swing I: Footwork: Steppin in Time
Tuesday, August 25, 2009 - 10:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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HBDA Tangovino Bottle Lights
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 - 5:25pm
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 - 5:40pm
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Chester Does Tap, Ballet, Soft Shoe, and Conducts the Band at the Same Time
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 - 4:40pm
Monday, April 30, 2018 - 3:57pm
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