Chester Whitmore spring 2026 Zürich classes & events presented by Muetze Swings and Chester Whitmore

About Chester

A dynamic force in the realm of American vernacular dance, Chester Whitmore built upon a rich foundation, notably his formative work alongside the seminal Leonard Reed. Reed, the legendary founder of the globally recognized Shim Sham and a prolific producer of groundbreaking African American dance revues, particularly those showcasing dazzling chorus girls who served as vital keepers and transmitters of intricate steps and traditions, profoundly influenced Chester’s artistic trajectory. 

Emerging from this significant mentorship, Chester established himself as a mesmerizing performer, his feet articulating complex rhythms in a dazzling display of tap artistry, while his embodiment of the buoyant energy of Lindy Hop and SoloJazz captivated audiences. As a choreographer, Chester distinguished himself by meticulously reconstructing historical dance forms, breathing new life into the authentic styles and infusing them with his own innovative spirit. His dedication extended beyond performance; he became a passionate educator, generously imparting his deep knowledge through workshops and residencies, ensuring the legacy of these vital dances continued to flourish. 

Chester’s commitment to historical accuracy, coupled with his dynamic teaching style, positioned him as a pivotal figure in dance preservation. He not only reconstructed steps but also illuminated the cultural narratives embedded within these forms, inspiring dancers to connect with the historical roots of American vernacular dance while encouraging their own creative exploration. His work stands as a testament to the enduring power and cultural significance of these dance traditions, ensuring their vibrancy for generations to come.



About Chester in general



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Dancer and Choreographer: Chester Whitmore has been dancing since 1974 and was a protégé of Fayard Nicholas of the Nicholas Brothers. He’s a renowned dancer, teacher, performer, choreographer, director, stuntman, and entertainer.
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Versatile Choreographer: His choreography credits include music videos for artists like Michel Jackson, Paula Abdul & Janet Jackson, Boys II Men, Sugar Ray, and Teena Marie. He has also worked with notable artists such as Savion Glover, MC Hammer, and Prince. He bring al kind of dance styles together in the 80’s music videos!

• Musician and Band Leader: Besides his dance career, Chester Whitmore is a highly regarded drummer and bandleader, he have his own BigBand Opus One. He has performed with prestigious orchestras like the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Count Basie Orchestra, and even with the legendary Miles Davis.

• Founder of Black Ballet Jazz: He founded his own dance company, Black Ballet Jazz and toured 27 time the world.
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Hollywood Work: Chester Whitmore has choreographed fight scenes for many Hollywood movie and has worked as a stuntman in films, including those with Chuck Norris. He is involved in the movies as a choreographer and dancer like A Jazzmans Blues, LaLaLand, Tuxedo and many more and has become “Hollywoods Go-To Choreographer”.

• Tap Dance Master: He is a high-speed tap dancer, having learned from one of the Nicholas Brothers.
Music Video Choreography: His choreography credits extend to iconic music videos such as Madonna’s “Vogue” and Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal”. He is one of the six choreographers of Thriller. A good example for his work is Janet Jackson Alright.

• Instructor and Cultural Historian: Chester Whitmore is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of African-American dance. He conducts as a professor, at workshops and lectures, for perfoming arts, teaching about the roots of jazz, tap, swing, and movie work.
Global Ambassador of Dance: He is considered a global ambassador for American dance traditions, known for his dynamic and charismatic style. He is two time awarded by the City of L.A.
Collaborations: He has collaborated with stars like Usher and Sammy Davis Jr.

Chester will be paired for Partnerdance classes with Beatrice Neagu

Beatrice is a Brussels-based dancer, teacher & performer — ballet-schooled contemporary/ballet/comedy -toured across Europe, trained/mentored closely by legends Norma Miller and Chester Whitmore plus Dawn Hampton & HDC sessions. Founder of performance collectives in Brussels, her hometown.


Her vibe: sophisticated, musical, technical and empowering — perfect for brand-new dancers and seasoned movers alike. Above all, she’s a free social dancer who teaches with rhythm, presence, and pure joy.

Beatrice Neagu — performer, choreographer, anthropologist & storyteller.
Brussels founder. Ballet (Bucharest) Contemporary & acting (EU tours).
Mentored by Norma Miller & Chester Whitmore.


Style: big soul+clean technique . Social dancer first, always.


Interest & Passionate about Choreography & Performances/Gigs of the Vaudeville&BroadwayStyle