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.
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
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Percy, Ron and Eroc clowning around in the Old Church, circa March 2005
Saturday, December 29, 2007 - 12:59pm
Saturday, December 29, 2007 - 1:18pm
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Friday, December 28, 2007 - 10:15pm
Friday, December 28, 2007 - 10:15pm
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Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:19pm
Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:19pm
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:39pm
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Video thumbnail for The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 10:04pm
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 10:04pm
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Friday, December 28, 2007 - 10:16pm
Friday, December 28, 2007 - 10:16pm
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Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:56pm
Thursday, December 27, 2007 - 9:56pm
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Monday, October 18, 2010 - 3:02pm
Monday, October 18, 2010 - 3:02pm
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - 2:38pm
Thursday, March 10, 2016 - 6:24pm
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