Central Ave Dance Ensemble

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: 

Typesort ascending Title Post date Updated/commented date
Event Motor City Jam Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:14pm Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 5:14pm
Event The Best of The History of Black Dance in America Monday, February 8, 2021 - 8:05pm Wednesday, March 3, 2021 - 11:01am
Event A Tribute to Norma Miller Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm
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 Vernacular Jazz Workshop Monday, April 30, 2018 - 8:13pm Monday, April 30, 2018 - 8:13pm
Event 2005-03-18 - Swinging In The Hood Sunday, February 20, 2005 - 12:00am Sunday, January 21, 2007 - 3:46pm
Event Dunham Tradition Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:09pm Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:09pm
Event 10th American Lindy Hop Championships (Stamford, CT) Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 4:58pm Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 4:58pm
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 Chester Teaches Lindy Hop at Dance Dimensions Studios Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 8:08pm

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