Central Avenue Dance Ensemble
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History of Black Dance in America Events

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These are performances and other events featuring members of the History of Black Dance in America cast.

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

"Since I Fell For You" 2010-06-20

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Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration in Leimert Park, CA, June 20th, 2010. Chester Whitmore's Opus One Big Band plays.  Dian Wilson sings. Ron and Roz dance.

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Chester Whitmore and the Central Ave Dance Ensemble perform at Barbara Morrison's Juneteenth Show

Date: 
Sunday, June 20, 2010 - 5:00am
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Chester Whitmore and the Central Ave Dance Ensemble along with the Opus One Big Band perform at Barbara Morrison's Juneteenth Show:

Barbara Morrison & Friends will present 2 days of jazz, gospel and blues in Leimert Park from Noon to 5 pm on Saturday, June 19th, and Sunday, June 20th. The Father's Day - Juneteenth Celebration will include performances by the Phil Wright Trio featuring Jai Jai Burton, Sweet Baby Jai, the Clarence Webb Quartet featuring Phyllis Battle, Chester Whitmore and his Opus One Band and Barbara Morrison herself. Musicial guests will appear on 2 stages: In the Courtyard, 4305 Degnan Blvd, and at the Lucy Florence Cultural Center, 3351 W. 43rd Street. For tickets and information, visit http://www.barbaramorrison.com.

 

Father's Day/ Juneteenth CelebrationFather's Day/ Juneteenth Celeb

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Diversify Your Dance Workshop

Date: 
Saturday, January 15, 2011 - 3:00am
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 Diversify Your Dance IV

January 15, 2011

Come learn the fundamentals of new dances while having a great time doing it!

Session I: 11:00am - 12:15pm

  • Tap -- Chester Whitmore
  • African Line Dance - Nzingha Camara

Session II: 12:45pm - 2:00pm

  • Bop - Chester Whitmore
  • Afro-Cuban Salsa - Adunni

Session III: 2:30pm - 3:45pm

  • Vernacular Jazz Dance -- Chester Whitmore
  • Argentine Tango -- Ron Parker

Session IV: 4:15pm - 6:00pm

  • Hip Hop Soul -- Chester Whitmore
  • Pre-Teen Dance Class -- Adunni

Where:

Vermont Square United Methodist Church
4410 South Budlong (corner of Vernon and Budlong)
Los Angeles, CA 90037
323 293 8281 (Church phone)

Purchase your tickets online today!

Purchase:

Workshop Sessions

(You may take one class per session)

Session Options (You may take 1 Class each Session)


   
View Cart and Checkout

Important notes:

  • If you purchase your ticket(s) online, please print your receipt and bring it with you to the workshop / dance.
  • You can only take one class per session. 
  • You should plan to be at the workshop at least 30 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin in order to register.
  • The "Practice" classes are supervised by the instructors.

More:

Chester Whitmore is a national treasure, and no one interested in Tap, Swing or Vernacular Jazz Dance should miss an opportunity like this.  Thanks! 

Chester Whitmore is a world renown tap dancer.  I don't think some people believe me when I tell them that.  He has studied under both Fayard Nicholas and John Bubbles, two of the greatest innovators of Tap in the history of the dance.  This video was recorded October 15, 2010 at the Association of Black Women Physicians "Cotton Club Night" fundraiser.  You decide for yourself.  He is teaching beginning Tap, Swing and Vernacular Jazz Dance this Saturday at the Diversify Your Dance workshop: http://www.centralavedance.com/node/4873

This is a fundraiser for:

  • History of Black Dance in America Production

Donate to the History of Black Dance Project

Don't want to attend the workshop, but want to support the project?  Please donate whatever you can. 

 

 
Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
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Image icon HistoryOfBlackDanceInAmericaFlyer.jpg
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Diversify Your Dance Advertising

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Chester Whitmore is a national treasure, and no one interested in these dances should miss an opportunity like this.   

Chester Whitmore is a world renown tap dancer.  I don't think some people believe me when I tell them that.  He has studied under both Fayard Nicholas and John Bubbles, two of the greatest innovators of Tap in the history of the dance.  This video was recorded this past weekend at the Association of Black Women Physicians "Cotton Club Night" fundraiser.  You decide for yourself.  He is teaching beginning Tap, Swing and Vernacular Jazz Dance this Saturday at the Diversify Your Dance workshop: http://www.centralavedance.com/node/4873

Our group, the Central Avenue Dance Ensemble, is a non-profit dance group based out of the Vermont Square Methodist Church at 4410 S. Budlong, LA 90037. We have been working for the past year on a show titled "The History of Black Dance in America" http://www.HistoryOfBlackDance.org
 
As part of the fundraising effort to put on this performance, we have been doing a series of dance workshops in the community titled "Diversify Your Dance" http://www.DiversifyYourDance.org
 
The goal of these workshops is not only to raise funds, but to introduce the community to social dance styles that they otherwise would not have access to.
 
Chester Whitmore and The Central Ave Dance Ensemble present the "Diversify Your Dance II" Dance Workshop. This workshop is designed to introduce beginning dancers or dancers who currently only dance one or two styles to various other popular styles of dance such as:
 
Basic Lead and Follow (Partnering) , Tap , Line Dance I , Swing Dance, Waltz , Line Dance II , Night Club 2-Step, Vernacular Jazz Dance , Chicago Style Step , Argentine Tango , Hip Hop Soul
 
Come learn and enjoy multiple new styles of dancing to enhance your current repertoire. Just as we should diversify our stock portfolio, so we should also consider "diversifying our dance!"

Check here for the date of our next workshop and the dances being taught: www.DiversifyYourDance.org

WHEN: December 4, 2010
 
TIME: 11:00am to 6:00pm
 
WHERE:
Vermont Square United Methodist Church
4410 South Budlong (corner of Vernon and Budlong)
Los Angeles, CA 90037
323 293 8281 (church phone)
 
MORE INFORMATION:
Info@CentralAveDance.com
http://www.DiversifyYourDance.org
310-710-9520

Blog: 
Rons blog
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Diversify Your Dance Workshop Classes

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Basic Lead and Follow

All partner dances, no matter the style or origin, require an understanding of the basic concepts of lead and follow.  While dance styles vary widely, partnering techniques are pretty much the same, no matter the dance.  The more you understand how to lead and/or follow, the better your lead/follow will be as you progress across multiple dances.  In this class, you will learn partnering fundamentals: connection, compression, balance, the slot, line of dance, the correct way to lead and follow turns.

Night Club Two Step

NC2Step is an elegant, Ballroom-like dance created to dance to slower, romantic music. While it looks similar to Bolero and shares some movements found in Rumba, it is not particularly danced to a Latin rhythm.  But it is an absolutely perfect dance for medium to slow tempo Rhythm and Blues music.  In addition, the basic step is very simple to learn and lead.  It is the dance for everyone looking to do more than rock side to side on slow songs.

Argentine Tango

Argentine Tango, as danced in Milongas around the world, looks very little like what you see on "Dancing with the Stars", and a lot like what you remember dancing to slow records under the red light back in the day.

From the book "Tango: The Art History of Love" by Robert Farris Thomson: African and Afro-Argentine influences are continuous in the rise, development, and achievement of the Tango....Tango started Black, and milonga, the dance preceding it, even more so...

If this is true, then Argentine Tango shares the same cultural roots as Rhythm and Blues music.  Our class teaches Tango basics: Balance, connection, walking, and the basic 8-count step.  While there is no doubt that Argentine Tango is best danced to Argentine Tango music, we demonstrate how it can also be danced to slower R & B tempos.

See our Blog on the roots of Argentine Tango: http://www.centralavedance.com/node/1667

Also, Wikepedia entry on "Candombe": http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candombe

"The Blackness of Tango": http://www.indyweek.com/indyweek/the-blackness-of-tango/Content?oid=1197334

Cayengue:

A rhythm that is of African origin and is thought to have influenced the Milonga . During the early 90’s it was also a reference to the teepee structure of the man and women in Milonguero style. There are many references to this word all with different origins and slang meanings.

 

Tango Terms: http://www.tangosilhouette.com/dictionary_of_tango_terms.htm

 

Tap

The original American form of dance, that is audio as well as visual.  Learn the fundamentals of basic rhythm, coordination, balance and speed.  Now you too can be a Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers or Bill Robinson in your own home, and make all the noise you want!  Tap shoes are preferred, but if you don't already own a pair, then please wear hard leather sole shoes.

Swing

You've tried all the rest, now try the best.  Swing is the original Steppin, Bop, Hand Dance and Urban Ballroom.  And, unlike those other dances, it can be danced to diverse styles of music.  Learn synchopation movement and dancing steps in time.  Swing is danced worldwide and is another American original.

Line Dance

I will be teaching a beginners class for the first hour and an advance class the following hour. So all you beginners, if you think you can catch on to the advance line dance class, you are welcome to stay board!

Chicago Style Step

"Chicago Style" Steppin’ is rapidly gaining popularity in many major cities from Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta, New York, and California.  Steppin’ has been described as the "Jazz of Ballroom Dancing" because of its soulful style and smooth rhythmic grace. 

 

Come learn the basic movements, figures, lead & follow techniques, and concepts of Steppin’. The class is lots of fun and designed to jumpstart the non-dance from the chair straight to the dancefloor.


I guarentee the quality of my instruction and continued promotion of the culture and grace of "Steppin".  Bring your friends, and meet a few more.
 

Segment 1 - Learning the basic count & basic movements
Segment 2 - Learning the basic figures
Segment 3 - Learning how to lead& follow
Segment 4 – Learning a complete dance pattern

Salsa

Salsa a dance genre from Cuba rooted in European and African popular cultures. It later spread to Puerto Rico and the rest of the Caribbean islands. Salsa is essentially Cuban with deep Afro-Cuban beats, and additional musical influences from Son Guaguanco and Rumba.   

The name "salsa" is the Spanish word for sauce, it also suggests a "mixture" of ingredients, and though Salsa music and dance are essentially Cuban in stylistic origin, it also has styles mixed with pop, jazz, rock and R&B. 

I guarantee the quality of my instruction and continued promotion of the culture and grace of "R&B Salsa".  Bring your friends, and meet a few more.  

Segment 1 - Learning the basic count & basic movements
Segment 2 - Learning the basic figures
Segment 3 - Learning how to lead& follow
Segment 4 – Learning a complete dance pattern

Hip Hop Soul

Hip Hop Soul is a combination of all dance forms.  It incorporates African, Jazz, Modern and Hip Hop movements.  It's all about moving to the groove of the music.  Hip Hop Soul is the expression of the music to which it is danced to.  Hip Hop Soul is a state of mind.  Hip Hop Soul is fun, energetic and rhythmic.  No dance experience is necessary, just a sense of rhythm.  Class will have a warm up, across the floor excercises, combination and cool down.

 

Return to Diversity Your Dance Back to Diversify Your Dance page.

 

Blog: 
Rons blog
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Argentine Tango and R & B Music

I got a call from Adunni today.
 
Adunni: "Hi, Ron.  I was looking at your flyer and thinking about taking the Argentine Tango class.  But, I noticed that you will be teaching it to R & B music.  Can you tell me what you mean by that?"
 
Me: "IIt is an introductory class, and I wanted to demonstrate that Tango can be danced to R & B music."
 
Adunni: "Why?"
 
Me: "Because it will be easier to get people interested in learning a new dance if they can dance it to music they are already familiar with."
 
Adunni: "I understand, but Argentine Tango should be danced to Argentine Tango music."
 
Me: "I absolutely agree.  Most of the class will be focused on the basic techniques of the dance: connection, balance, walking.  I doubt that there will be very little music played at all.  But, I know that the dance can be danced to a variety of music styles, and if we can get someone interested in 'diversifying' their dance as a result of seeing Tango danced to a style of music they know and love, then we have taken a big step towards meeting one of the goals of this workshop."
 
Last night, I went to the Tango room, an Argentine Tango Milonga in Van Nuys, California.  I met a partner there, and danced with a couple other people, and generally had a pretty good time.  However, on my drive back home, I could not help but remark how intensely unfriendly the crowed was.  Most of the people there don't look at you with contempt (unless you bump into them); they just ignore you completely.  Many of them dance with these grim expressions of self-importance on their faces all night long.  I can assure you that it is only the love of of what I consider the most remarkable dance on this planet that keeps me in a room like that.
 
As an experienced dancer, I am used to this type of environment and make the best of it.  However, for a beginning dancer, this environment can be deadly. It not only kills the spirit, but the desire to learn, or even be around the dance.
 
Switch reels:  One of the major goals of the "Diversify Your Dance" Workshop is to introduce people who dance only one or two dances to new dances they might be interested in learning.  I go to a variety of dance venues, and it is clear to me that, generally speaking (yes, there are exceptions), Steppers just Step, Urban Ballroomers just Urban Ballroom, Salsa dancers just Salsa, West Coast Swing dancers just West Coast and Lindy Hoppers just Lindy Hop.  All night long.  How do you get them interested in other dances?  Most of them will fly around the country to attend dance events in their style, but they won't drive across town to learn a new dance style.
 
So, if you can't bring Moses to the Mountain, you bring the Mountain to Moses. 
 
Lindy Hoppers and Urban Ballroomers in particular are a visibly happy, fun-loving bunch.  They walk around smiling.  They smile when they dance.  They look you in the eyes and say "Hello."   What do you think will happen when you try to get people from these environments to go to a grim place like the Tango Room to learn Argentine Tango?  Exactly.
 
So, my motive in even mentioning R & B Music in association with Argentine Tango is to show people that they can do this where they dance now.  If you like what I show you, go take lessons and get better at it.   Perhaps one day, if enough of us get good at it, we'll go the the Tango Room and show them it is possible to do Argentine Tango AND behave like normal, personable and friendly human beings.
 
Now, that will be true Diversity!
 
p.s. 
 
For the record, not all Tango venues are like the Tango Room. In fact, few are that bad. I only mention the Tango Room because I just happened to go there last night, and two years ago I experienced there one of the very few overt acts of discrimination I have ever experienced in my entire life.  So, OK, I have it in for them.
 
The Tango Room has a long tradition and large following in the Valley, and I'm sure the people who go there think of themselves and personable and friendly.  My point is that they aren't very friendly to people they don't know or haven't seen before, and that's the exact opposite of what is needed to attract and welcome new dancers from other styles.
 

Blog: 
Rons blog
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Diversify Your Dance Workshop Notes

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Front Desk Process and Forms

Registration

The Registration Desk will have three primary stations:

  1. Ticket Sales

    Students who do not already have a ticket will purchase it here. They can purchase by cash or credit card.  Follow "Credit Card purchases" procedure below for card purchases.

    All ticket sales must be entered into the Ticket Distribution and Sales Sheet.
     

  2. Wristband Distribution

    Students present their ticket to this station to receive wristband for class access.  Student receives the appropriate wristband and his/her ticket is punched.  Student retains punched ticket.

    1 - 3 Sessions - Green Wristband
    4 Sessions - Yellow Wristband

    A colored star is placed on Green wristband for each session a student has purchased.

    A mark is placed by Students name on the Ticket Distribution and Sales Sheet to indicate the student has presented the ticket and received the wristband.

     

  3. T-Shirts / DVD

    Students who purchased 4 Class + TShirt ($35) will receive their T-Shirt from this station.  Staff here will mark "T" on punched ticket and give student T-Shirt in requested size (M|L|XL).

    All T-Shirts picked up or sold are marked in the T-Shirt Sales Sheet.
     

Wristbands

When a student brings a ticket to the wristband station, the staff person will:

  • Check to see if the ticket distribution lists to see that the ticket was in fact sold.
  • If the ticket number is located on the correct sheet, place a mark next to it to indicate that the student has presented the ticket and received the wristband.
  • Punch a hole in the ticket, indicating that it has been submitted, and give it back to the student.
  • Give the student the appropriate wristband:
    • If a student has purchased 4 sessions, then the student will be given a Yellow wristband indicating that the student can attend any class in any session.  Otherwise:
    • If the student has purchased 1 to 3 sessions then the student is given a Green wristband and a colored star is attached for each session that the student is allowed and able to attend:
      • Green Star for Session I
      • Blue Star for Session II
      • Silver Star for Session III
      • Gold Star for Session IV
    • For example, if the student has purchased 2 sessions, and wishes to take one class in Session I and the second in Session III, then he/she is given a Green wristband with a Green Star and a Silver Star affixed to it.  

T-Shirts

  • T-Shirt sale price is $13. Every sales must be entered into the T-Shirt Sales Sheet.
  • We only have Medium, Large and X-Tra Large sizes.
  • Students who purchased $35Ticket (4 Class + TShirt Special) must show their ticket to the T-Shirt sales personnel.  If there is no "T" marked on the ticket, the sales personnel is to write a "T" on the ticket using a marker and give the student a T-Shirt in the size requested.  The sales personnel must then note that the student has received the T-Shirt in the T-Shirt Sales Sheet.

CentralAveDance will receive $3 on each T-Shirt sold at the event.

CentralAveDance must compensate Ron Parker $10 for each T-Shirt sold or given with the 4 Class + TShirt Special.

DVD

  • Each DVD is to be sold for $35. 
  • Every DVD sale must be entered into the DVD Sales Sheet.
  • CentralAveDance will receive $15 on each DVD sold at the event.

Credit Card Purchases

  • Write the item description and total amount due on the Credit Card Information Form.
  • Give the form to the student to fill out the billing information.
  • Give the form along with the student's credit card to the input operator.
  • The operator will process the transaction and print a receipt.
  • When the transaction is processed, give the student the following:
    • the form
    • the credit card
    • the receipt
    • the item(s) the student has purchased
  •  

Snacks / Water

  • Bottled water will be sold for $1.
  • Snacks will consist of the following: Chips, crackers, cookies, banannas and apples. And, perhaps slices of chocolate cake.  They will be sold at the rate of 2 items for $1.

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Public Attachments: 
PDF icon CreditCardInputOnSite.pdf
PDF icon T-Shirt.pdf
PDF icon SignIn.pdf
PDF icon DVDSales.pdf
PDF icon DiversifyYourDanceTicketSales.pdf
PDF icon InformationHandOut101023.pdf

I Can't Do All That!

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"I can't do all that!"  Rene has said often that guys tell her this.  Roz recently told me that several people have said this to her in response to the picture on one of our "Diversify Your Dance" flyers.  But, no one had ever said this to me until last night at the OG ("Older Gentleman", Wow, I like that name!) Party at Hollywood Casino.  I had a good time there.  Saw and danced with lots of folks I hadn't seen in a while.  

Asked this one lady, who I had seen dancing with Mac and a couple others, and she said "Oh no, I've seen you dance.  I don't want to look silly out there!"  I tried mightily to convince her otherwise, but she stuck to her guns.  She went on to tell me that she only dances with people she "trains" with.  Oh, brother!  

Let me say for the record, that dance to me is about movement, not moves.  I dance with the person I'm dancing with.  I try to have the best time possible, each and every time. I was "trained" to recognize that the man is the frame, and the woman the picture. My job is to make her look good, not the other way around.  Consequently, a woman is not going to have a good time or look good unless she is comfortable, doing what she believes she can do.  I'm actually glad I went to this event, which was quite unlike most events I normally attend, because it reminded me of what's really important in dance: connecting and having a good time.  So, let's relax and dance and have a good time with each other.

Blog: 
Rons blog
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Ensemble Group Photo at Barbara Morrison Juneteenth

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Carlton, Roz, Zan, Attiya, Mike, Ron, Gwen.

Album: 
Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Ensemble and others onlook at Barbara Morrison Juneteenth

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Album: 
Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Past Events

Past events.

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Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Cotton Club Night - Association of Black Women Physicians

Date: 
Saturday, October 16, 2010 - 12:00pm
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Chester Whitmore and his Opus One Big Band along with CADE performs at the Association of Black Women Physicians 29th Annual Charity and Scholarship Benefit themed "Cotton Club Night".

Details on their web site: http://www.blackwomenphysicians.org/events.php

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Chester Taps at Black Women Physicians Fundraiser 2010-10-16

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Chester does tap routine at Black Women Physicians "Cotton Club" fundraiser.  October 16, 2010.

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Ron and Xia dance to "Temptation" at Black Women Physicians fundraiser 1010-10-16

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Xia and Ron perform a rumba to "Temptation" at Black Women Physicians "Cotton Club" fundraiser.  October 16, 2010.

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Shim Sham performed at Black Women Physicians Fundraiser 2010-10-16

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Chester Whitmore and CADE performs Shim Sham Shimmy at Black Women Physicians "Cotton Club" fundraiser.  October 16, 2010.

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

"HEALING THROUGH MUSIC" STRAIGHT JAZZ WITH A SPLASH OF BLUES

Date: 
Tuesday, July 20, 2010 - 12:00pm
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Dian Wilson invited the Central Avenue Dance Ensemble to perform with her on Tuesday evening, July 20th 2010. Ron and Roz will reprise their "Since I Fell For You" Tango routine. The ensemble will perform the Jackie Wilson "Work Out" routine.

From Dian:

Here is the link of the event invite. Also I have cut and pasted the text below.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/event.php?eid=118648844844525
 
 
Start Time:
Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:00pm
End Time:
Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 1:00pm
Location:
Aqua Lounge
Street:
424 N. Beverly Drive
City/Town:
Beverly Hills, CA
 
View Map

Description

KIERRAH EVENTS PRESENTS:
"HEALING THROUGH MUSIC"
STRAIGHT JAZZ WITH A SPLASH OF BLUES

Healing Through Music is a Drop In Jam Session.
Jazz, has a great history of jam sessions. Traditionally, the language of jazz has been developed and passed down through generations of musicians throughout the years. Jam sessions provide a chance for new and emerging players to test their skills in front of an audience, while allowing them to listen, play and network with other professional and fantastic musicians.

FEATURING:

MAESTRO DELBERT TAYLOR
Our Music Director - World Renowned Conductor/Composer/Pianist
The Maestro has recorded with such notables as Natalie Cole, Gil Scott-Heron, Fred Wesley, Slave, The Friends of Distinction and many other artists. He has also produced and performed for such major record labels as Capitol, Atlantic, Atlantic Cotillion, Elektra Asylum, A&M, and CBS Sony Records to name a few.

KENNY ELLIOT
World Renowned Drummer
Kenny has recorded with artist such as Syreeta Wright, Rance Allen, High Energy, Ren Woods, Bobby"Blue"Bland, Carl Anderson, Staple Singers, The Ink Spots, Martha Reeves, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Mighty Clouds of Joy, Carl Anderson, Pockets, Paradise Express, Vicki Wynans, David T. Walker, Tavares to name a few.

BRENDA LEE EAGER
Legendary Singer/Songwriter, Musician/Composer
Brenda Lee Eager has worked with great artists such as Diana Ross, Roberta Flack, Smokey Robinson, Teena Marie, Donny Hathaway, Graham Nash, Ray Charles, Mavis Staples, Stevie Wonder, among many others. As a songwriter Brenda has written songs for Bobby Womack, Mavis Staples and the Staples Singers, Pop Staples, Cliff Richard, The Manhattans, Gladys Night, Peaches and Herb, and recently a Platinum single with the artist formally known as Prince. Shirley Brown of "Woman to Woman" fame has recorded three of Brenda's tunes. Aretha Franklin and so many others continue to request her material.

LES JULY
Musician/Singer/Recording Artist/Producer
Les July is an extremely unique self-contained recording artist / producer who sings, writes and plays several instruments. He has been described in the press as "Seal meets Sting in Strawberry Fields". Les has worked with top artists in every vein of contemporary music from Slash to k.d. Lang to Dr.Dre to Herbie Hancock. With recognition in all genres of contemporary music, Les has managed to escape categorization as an artist, producer and musician.

DIAN WILSON
Singer/Songwriter/Producer
Dián began singing at the tender age of three. A child prodigy in jazz she has recorded with jazz greats Stanley Clarke, Michael Hoppé, worked with Dizzy Gillespie and performed with the Louis Taylor Quartet. Dián has written 6 cd's and 12 singles in jazz, rock n roll, blues, and produces r&b/dance music under the alias Sky Henry. Dián is also featured in the recent edition of BRE Magazine.

MILES JOSEPH
Guitarist/Background Vocalist
The Co-writer and guitarist for Beyonce?s ?Sugar Mama? on her ?B?Day? CD, Miles has worked many of the greats. He has shared the stage with Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Carolyn Franklin, Billy Preston, Ivan Neville, Joe Sample with Steve Gadd & The Soul Committee, Edgar Winter, Steve Ferrone, AWB, Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, Bruce Willis & the Accelerators, Albert King, Jake Wade & the Soul Searchers, The Jones Boys and Rickie Byars Beckwith, just to name a few. Miles has performed on number recording sessions & television commercials.

ANITA DIANE HUTCHINSON
Vocalist / Songwriter
Anita is a seasoned, accomplished songstress, recording artist and songwriter with a unique sound which has allowed her to sing background for various artist such as Celine Dion, Helen Baylor, R Kelly, Greg Clarke to name a few. Anita has also performed in various groups singing background as well as lead vocals, opening for Chapter 8 (this group included Anita Baker as the featured vocalist), The Dramatics, P-Funk (Parliament/ Funkadelics), Hamilton Bohannon. Anita Baker as the featured vocalist), The Dramatics, P-Funk (Parliament/ Funkadelics), Hamilton Bohannon.

JAY JACKSON
Singer/Musician
Jay Jackson is a nationally recognized artist who has appeared on "The Oprah Winfrey Show". Known locally as an Emmy winning reporter for CBS2/KCAL9 Los Angeles. Jay is an accomplished jazz vocalist as well as pianist. He has produced and recorded on 6 albums, ranging from straight ahead jazz to Gosep/Christian rap.
Jay is one of the most sought after vocalists in the region. He has shared bills with giants such as Nancy Wilson (Vino Jazz Festival), Azar Lawrence (Jazz For Lovers) and Rose Gails (The World Stage).

ERIC SEATS
Drummer to the Stars
Eric has worked with such artists as: Playa, 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, Tony Yayo, DJ Whoo Kid, Travis Barker, T.I., DJ Drama, Young Dro, Jay-Z, Tweet, Nelly, Murphy Lee, DMX, Ashanti, Ja Rule, DJ Reflex, DJ Dense, Yung Joc, Diddy, Pharell, Busta Rhymes, Chingy, Fabolous, Tank, Keyshia Cole, Kanye West, Bubba Sparxxx, Nelly Furtado, Rich Boy, Soulja Boy, Lil? Mo, D4L, En Vogue, Karen Clark-Sheard, The Soul Seekers, Mary Mary, Chante Moore, Kenny Latimore, Dave Hollister, Lalah Hathaway, Kelly Price, Patti LaBelle and Stevie Wonder, just to name a few.

CHRIS WOODS
Violinist/Composer/Arranger
Chris is concertmaster of the Southeast Symphony and Center Stage Opera, and has performed on such shows as American Idol, America's Got Talent, the Grammys, the American Music Awards, as well as shows on MTV, VHI, and worked as a music consultant for the television shows ER and The Big Bang Theory. He has worked with some of the top artists in the world, including Justin Timberlake, Jessica Simpson, Clay Aiken, Faith Evans, Outkast, Rickie Byers-Beckwith, Black Eyed Peas, and Dr. Dre . He also is a composer,arranger,and producer, and has written music for his group Sonication, his quartet Quartetto Fantastico, and MASS Ensemble, with whom he has toured the world.

JASON POWELL
Singer/Recording Artist
From Gospel, R&B, to Funk and Doo-Wop Groups(most notably the Acapella sensation "Renaissance"), Jason has performed and shared the stage with artists such as: Boys II Men, Chaka Khan, Will I AM, John Legend, Kool and the Gang, Chuck Berry, Gloria Gaynor, Rudy Ray Moore, and Andre Williams. He has appeared in the film, Phone Booth(2001) (as the featured "Doo-Wop" singer), the PBS TV show, Madison Heights(funeral singer), and lent his voice to an episode of the popular animated TV show, "South Park", where he garnered critical acclaim for his comedic/satirical portrayal of South Central Crips and Blood Gang characters.

Celebrity Guest Include: The Original Bad Comedy Luenell
R&B/Soul/Hip Hop Singer Trueful
International Film Star/Celebrity Fitness Trainer Xango Henry

Red Carpet at 7:00 p.m.
Showtime at 8:00 p.m.

If you are a Jazz or a Blues Musician or Performer and you would like to come jam with us, we would be honored to add your name to our show lineup.

Don?t miss this uniqueut i opportunity to network with other musicians, play some music, and listen to Live Jazz and Blues.

For Details on how you can participate in the fun and exciting event,
please contact Brandy Sanders at brandy@kierrahevents.org or
drop a message in Brandy's inbox.

For Media Inquiries and Celebrity Guests Submissions,
please contact our Publicist
Betrice Coleman-Sweet
562-556-9161
sweetrayolight@live.com

THE CREW
BRANDY SANDERS - PRODUCER
BATTINA COOPER - ASSOCIATE PRODUCER
BETRICE COLEMAN-SWEET - PUBLICIST
PARRIS HARRIS - TALENT COORDINATOR
REVINA THOMAS - SPONSORSHIP COORDINATOR
DONALD CARRAWAY - LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER
EXIE BOOKER - GRAPHIC ARTIST

ADVANCED VIP TICKETS - $25.00 (DISCOUNT EXPIRES 07/14/10
at www.kierrahevents.org
VIP Tickets Include:
Red Carpet Arrival, Reserved Seating,
Photo and Press Opportunities
Meet and Greet Celebrity Guests
and Featured Artists
VIP TICKETS ARE $40.00 AFTER THE EXPIRATION DATE!!
VIP TICKETS ARE LIMITED! GET YOURS TODAY!!
NO VIP TICKETS SOLD AT THE DOOR (NO EXCEPTIONS)
VALET PARKING ONLY $6.00

A portion of the proceeds will benefit our Annual Back to School Party. Each year, we provide backpacks, school supplies, uniforms and shoes to the children of The Kierrah Foundation.

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION: In 2004, Brandy and Stan Sanders founded The Kierrah Foundation to assist young women who have age out of the foster care system without family or friends. For more information, please visit our website at www.kierrahfoundation.org.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

CADE Performs at USA Dance LA Halloween Ball

Date: 
Sunday, October 30, 2011 - 1:00pm
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October 30, 2011, we will perform at the USA Dance Halloween Ball.  We will perform:

  • Walking the Dog
  • Shim Sham

http://usadancela.org/halloween-ball/

Address:

SUNDAY, Culver City Veterans' Memorial Auditorium 4117 Overland Ave. CC 90230 (At the corner of Overland and Culver)

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

CADE performs at 2nd Annual Tango On The Streets

Date: 
Saturday, April 30, 2011 - 8:00am
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Tango On The Street- 2nd Annual

On Saturday, April 30, under the auspices of the Argentine Consulate, and in association with Bayside District, Tango Smith presents the second annual “Tango on the Street” event (T.O.T.S).  Third Street Promenade will be home to a unique cultural event which includes FREE tango lessons, live music, dance exhibitions, and food & artisan vendors.  The day ends with an outdoor milonga brought to you by Oxygen Outdoors. Bring your friends and family! 

Location:              Third Street Promenade , corner of Wilshire Blvd

Time:                     Noon to 9:00pm

Stage Hours (Scheduled):       1st Stage 3-4pm, 2nd Stage 5-6pm

See these links:

  • http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/eve/2284559394.html
  • http://www.facebook.com/TheSMITH.TangoFestival
Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Central Ave Cotillion Dance Ensemble performs at Toys for Tots

The Central Ave Cotillion Dance Ensemble performed a slow waltz to Nat King Cole's "Unbelievable" at Sandra Gile's annual Toys for Tots benefit held in Marina del Rey, CA, December 20, 2009.

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Central Ave Dance Ensemble at Tango On The Streets 2010-05-02, Santa Monica, CA

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Tango performance at "Tango on the Streets" in Santa Monica, May 2, 2010.

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Central Ave Dance Ensemble performs at Maxwell DeMille's Cicada Club in LA

Date: 
Sunday, May 9, 2010 - 12:00pm
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Chester Whitmore and his Opus One Big Band performs with an appearance by the Central Avenue Dance Ensemble at Maxwell DeMille's beautiful Cicada Club on May 9th, 2010.

Maxwell DeMille's Cicada Club

617 S. Olive Street

Los Angeles, CA

Dinner Reservations: 213 488 9488
Info: 877 463 7773

http://www.ClubCicada.com

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Central Ave Dance Ensemble performs at Santa Monica Tango Festival

Date: 
Sunday, May 2, 2010 - 9:00am
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“Tango on the Street”
Sunday, May 2, 2010
11:00am - 6:00pm

Third Street Promenade, between Wilshire and Arizona
Santa Monica, CA

Join us for the first annual “Tango on the Street” fair.
Free tango lessons, live music, dance exhibitions, and food & artisan vendors.
Tango dancing all day!

“Tango on the Street” is a FREE event open to all!

11 am - 12 pm Social Dancing with DJ Miguel Cardoso
12 pm - 1 pm Musical Performance by Haberdashery Ensemble
1 pm - 1:30 pm FREE Tango Class with Ilona Glinarsky
1:30 pm - 2 pm Social Dancing with DJ Miguel Cardoso
2 pm - 2:30 pm FREE Tango Class with Ilona Glinarsky
2:30 pm - 3 pm Social Dancing with DJ Miguel Cardoso
3 pm - 3:30 pm FREE Tango Class with Ilona Glinarsky
3:30 pm - 4 pm Social Dancing with DJ Miguel Cardoso
4 pm - 5 pm Musical Performance by Abraham Celaya
Dance Performance by Central Ave Dance Ensemble
Tango Performances by
Embrace Project with Brenda & Jeremiah
Max Cubillos & Mary Fu
Michael Kuka & Natalia Lind
German Rossi & Gina Benamo
Angel Echeverria & Julie Friedgen
5 pm - 6 pm DJ Social Dancing

http://santamonicatangofestival.com/tangoonthestreet.htm

 

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Central Ave Dance Ensemble performs at TV Land Awards after party

Date: 
Wednesday, April 28, 2010 - 1:00pm
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The Central Ave Dance Ensemble with Chester Whitmore will do a special performance on the Tv Land Awards after party for Breast Cancer Awareness on April 28th 2010. The event will be red carpet andDitch will perform live in concert for the A List crowd. The event will be located at 6311 Wilshire Blvd at Life nightclub. The Red Carpet will beginat 8:00pm sharp and there is no cover charge to attend. Event is 21 and over.For media consideration please email Ditchofmayhem@yahoo.com

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Condombe Milonga Performance at "Tango on the Streets", 2011-04-30

Candombe Milonga performed by the Central Ave Dance Ensemble at the Santa Monica "Tango on the Streets" Festival, April 30, 2011. We attempt to show the Candombe roots of the Milonga. Choreography by Nzinga Camara and Ron Parker.

 
 

 

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Dance Fusion: Central Ave Dance Ensemble perform Tango Routine at Dance Fusion in Inglewood

Date: 
Saturday, July 3, 2010 - 1:00pm
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Renee and Mac have invited us to perform our "Tango" routine at their "Red White and Blue" dance (Dance Fusion program) Saturday night, July 3, 2010.  This will be at their dance studio: The Gallery, 122 N. Market Street, Inglewood, CA 9030

 Their Facebook page is here:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=136327813044626

 

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Dance Fusion Tango 2010-07-03

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Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Harlem Nights Steppers Ball

Date: 
Friday, October 29, 2010 - 1:00pm
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See that beautiful picture below?  You would think that the Central Avenue Dance Ensemble would be welcomed here, but read the comment below to see just how we were treated .

Oh, and just for the record, the couple below are doing the Swing Walk.  This iwas a form of closed position progressive dancing which is very, very similar to the Argentine Tango Milonga -- only jazzier.  We're teaching Tango at our next Workshop.

Original Post:

The Central Ave Dance Ensemble will perform at the Third Annual Harlem Nights Steppers Ball on October 29th, 2010 in Pomona, CA.

Event details here: http://www.astepaheadentertainment.com/

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Parkinson's: Ron performs at the Parkinson's Resource Organization Fundraiser

Date: 
Sunday, July 18, 2010 - 1:00pm
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Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Ron and Lynn perform Argentine Tango at Parkinsons Fundraiser 2010-07-18

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Ron and Lynn perform Argentine Tango routine to "Capricho Otanal"  at the Parkinson's Resource Organization Benefit at the Automobile Driving Museum in El Segundo, CA.  July 18, 2010.

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Ron and Xia perform Slow Waltz at Parkinson's Fundraiser 2010-07-18

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Ron and Xia perform Bronze Syllabus Standard Waltz to Nat King Cole's "Fascination" at the Parkinson's Resource Organization Benefit at the Automobile Driving Museum in El Segundo, CA.  July 18, 2010.

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Pico-Fairfax Street Fair

Date: 
Saturday, October 9, 2010 - 4:00am
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CADE will perform two numbers at the Pico-Fairfax Street Fair.  See their web site for more event information: http://www.picfairvillage.com

 

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Ron and Gwen perform "Work Out" at PicFair Village Block Party 2010-10-09

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Performed at the Pico Fairfax Block Party today. No one from the group could come except Gwen. She had always rehearsed this routine in group formation. But, today, she had to perform it solo for the first time ever. I think she did a great job.

First time I've performed it solo since I did it with Felicia in 2007.  Yikes!

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Xia and Ron perform to "Scent of a Woman" at Pico Fairfax Village Block Party 2010-10-09

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Because of a perfect storm of events, none but one of my dancers was able to show up at this scheduled event to perform today.  Called Xia after midnight last night and she came to the rescue.

I've been dancing with her a couple months now, but just today, when I was capturing stills from this video, have I really appreciated what beautiful lines she has.  Thanks, Xia!

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Sandra Giles: CADE Performs at Sandra Giles Birthday Party

Date: 
Saturday, July 24, 2010 - 12:00pm
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The Central Ave Dance Ensemble will perform Shim Sham / Lindy and Bolero numbers at Sandra Giles Birthday Bash at the Marina City Club.

Sandra Giles Birthday Bash

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

The Central Ave Cotillion Dance Ensemble

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The Rev. Dr. Della Reese Lett and the Willing Workers presented a Holiday Party last night, December 5, 2009, at the First Lutheran Church in Inglewood, CA.

Sterling and Taylor danced the Obama Inaugural dance to Etta James "At Last".  I only worked with Sterling for a short time, but he adapted the choreography I gave him to the music, trained his partner, Taylor, and they both did a fabulous job.

The History of Black Dance in America crew performed a Waltz to Nat King Cole's "Unbelievable".  Rosalind, Antoinette, Atiya, Ace and Carleton learned this routine in two weeks.  None of them had danced the Waltz before.  I am quite proud of their performance.  I hereby officially name them: "The Central Ave Cotillion Dance Ensemble".

Folks were ballroom dancing to Fred Astaire music last night -- in Inglewood!  My God, a change is coming.

Many thanks to the Beverly Hills Cotillion Dance Ensemble for their assistance in helping me to help make this happen.

 

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Ace, Sallie and Carlton

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Album: 
Toys for Tots Christmas Party
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

The Ensemble Waltzes at Toys for Tots

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Album: 
Toys for Tots Christmas Party
Groups audience: 
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

The Ensemble Waltzes at Toys for Tots

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From left: Rosalind, Carlton, Andi, Ron, Atiya, Skip

Album: 
Toys for Tots Christmas Party
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

The Joint is Jumping Weekend Dance Workshop

Date: 
Sunday, November 27, 2011 - 3:00am
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What: The Joint is Jumping Holiday Weekend Dance Workshop
          Tap - Chester Whitmore
           Lindy Hop - Paulette Brockington
           Vernacular Jazz Dance - Chester Whitmore
           Swing Walk - Deborah Perez
           Blues Dance - Paulette Brockington

These are all American Vernacular dances, and Swing Walk is the version of Foxtrot danced for most of the 20th Century.  In fact, Swing Walk is the *other* dance people danced to Lindy music back in the day.  Paulette Brockington, who runs the American Lindy Hop Championships,  is our special guest instructor.

Where: By Your Side Dance Studio
            12613 West Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90066           
When: Sunday, November 27, 2011
           11:00am to 5:00pm

Register: www.ByYourSideProductions.com

Contact: 310 391 0400
              bysdance@gmail.com

See the special video here.

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

The Joint is Jumping Weekend Dance Workshop Video

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On November 27, 2011, The Central Avenue Dance Ensemble along with By Your Side Dance Studio will present a dance workshop of Vernacular styles:

  • Tap
  • Lindy Hop
  • Jazz Dance
  • Swing Walk
  • Blues Dance

These classes will be taught by Paulette Brockington of the American Lindy Hop Championships, Deborah Perez of By Your Side Studios, and the great Chester Whitmore.

Where: By Your Side Dance Studio
            12613 West Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90066           
When: Sunday, November 27, 2011
           11:00am to 5:00pm
Register: www.ByYourSideProductions.com
Contact: 310 391 0400
              bysdance@gmail.com

Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Thixotix Runway Dance Fusion

Date: 
Sunday, September 26, 2010 - 12:00pm
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Central Avenue Dance Ensemble performs at the Thixotix Runway Dance Fusion Event at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Torrance, CA.

See web site for details: http://www.Thixotix.com

 

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America
Central Ave Dance Ensemble

Ron and Roz at Barbara Morrison Juneteenth

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Ron and Roz dance to "Since I Fell for You" played by Chester Whitmore's Opus One Big Band at Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration.  Beautifully sung by Ms. Dian Wilson.

 

Album: 
Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Swing Baby Swing at the Apollo Theatre

Date: 
Sunday, August 29, 2010 - 9:00am
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In 2007 Chester and Ron presented the very first "Tribute to Normal Miller" at the Nate Holden Theatre in Los Angeles.

They have been invited to participate in Norma Miller's "Swing Baby Swing" show at Harlem's Famous Apollo Theatre on August 29th. 

For tickets go to: ApolloTheatre.com

Norma Miller Queen of Swing

Events: 
CentralAveDance
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

The Ensemble Shim-Shams at Barbara Morrison Juneteenth

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The Ensemble Shim-Shams.

Album: 
Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

The Ensemble Shim-Shams at Barbara Morrison Juneteenth

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Chester Whitmore and Central Ave Dance Ensemble performing Shim Sham Shimmey to "Wednesday Night Hop".  Opus One Big Band playing.

Album: 
Barbara Morrison Juneteenth Celebration
Groups audience: 
History of Black Dance in America

Source URL: http://aws.centralavedance.com/node/4466