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:
Type
Title
Post date
Updated/commented date
Video Embed
The History of Black Dance in America - Promo 2012
Thursday, February 18, 2016 - 6:40pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:38pm
Event
The History of Black Dance in America Photo Exhibition and Fundraiser
Wednesday, February 24, 2016 - 4:23pm
Wednesday, August 17, 2016 - 3:24pm
Event
Tribute to Chester Whitmore
Tuesday, June 28, 2016 - 9:34am
Tuesday, June 28, 2016 - 9:35am
Event
Dance Fusion Fundraiser Dance
Monday, August 8, 2016 - 5:47pm
Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:54pm
Video Embed
What is Urban Ballroom
Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - 2:56pm
Tuesday, January 30, 2018 - 7:39pm
Event
Lord of the Swing - Ford Theater
Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:32pm
Thursday, December 27, 2018 - 6:35pm
Event
Birth of Swing
Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:41pm
Saturday, September 10, 2016 - 6:41pm
Video
Killing Myself
Wednesday, January 4, 2017 - 10:48pm
Thursday, January 11, 2018 - 12:56am
Book page
Five Star Center / Epworth Methodist Church Research
Thursday, January 5, 2017 - 12:25am
Friday, January 6, 2017 - 1:18am
Event
Tribute to Sam Cooke
Saturday, May 13, 2017 - 10:40pm
Monday, May 22, 2017 - 11:22pm
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