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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ShimSham 104
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 3:41pm
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 3:41pm
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RonAndXia 16
Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 8:05pm
Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 8:05pm
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RonAndXia 83
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 12:17pm
Thursday, March 10, 2016 - 6:56pm
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Video thumbnail for Unbelievable Waltz
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 8:23pm
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 8:23pm
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
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Saturday, December 29, 2007 - 12:58pm
Saturday, December 29, 2007 - 12:58pm
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Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:57pm
Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:57pm
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:38pm
Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:38pm
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Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 11:33pm
Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 11:33pm
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RonAndXia 100
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 12:16pm
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 12:16pm
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