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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Video Embed
Absolute Beginner's Guide to Swing: Volume V
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 6:15pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Parker Walk Fundamentals: Connection
Wednesday, August 19, 2009 - 5:03pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Absolute Beginner's Guide to Swing: Volume III
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 7:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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Absolute Beginner's Guide to Swing: Volume I
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 6:00pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
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A Brief History of the Black Roots of Argentine Tango
Saturday, March 5, 2011 - 8:16am
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Video Embed
Beginning Argentine Tango
Wednesday, August 26, 2009 - 11:12am
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Video Embed
From Swing To Steppin: Beginning Chicago Style Step Dance Course
Sunday, August 23, 2009 - 12:11pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 5:30pm
Event
2005-01-02 - Kwanzaa Festival
Wednesday, December 29, 2004 - 12:00am
Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 11:36pm
Event
2004-06-04 - L.A. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority 75th Anniversary Gala
Friday, June 4, 2004 - 12:00am
Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 11:31pm
Link
Vintage Videos
Friday, July 13, 2007 - 12:30pm
Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 11:16pm
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