Dance Collective showcases UH-Hilo, community dancers

The University of Hawaii at Hilo presents the 2019 Dance Collective at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, in the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center.

Now in its fourth year, this dance concert features new and experienced choreographers and dancers from Island Dance Academy, Center Stage Dance Alliance, Paradise Performing Arts Center, N2 Dance and the UH-Hilo dance department.

“It is honestly really humbling to bear witness to the amount of talent and heart that is present in this show,” said Dori Yamada, the producer for Dance Collective. “It never ceases to amaze me how, with each production, everyone brings their A-game and really embraces the message of this show: to build bridges and share resources, ideas and space with one another in a cooperative manner.”

The program includes pieces ranging in style from hip hop to jazz to contemporary, some of which have serious messages to impart while other dances are done for the pure joy of the art form.

“We’re very grateful for the unique freedom the Dance Collective has given us to share a dance that addresses a very heavy subject,” said first-time contributor and co-choreographer Leah Wilson. “The Dance Collective allows us to create without boundaries, to execute our vision to the fullest extent without fear.”

“To us, the Dance Collective is so much more than just being part of an amazing production,” added co-choreographer Muriel Assi. “It is about using our gifts to reach those who may feel unreachable. We are humbled to have been given this opportunity to bring hope and healing through dance.”

Tickets are open seating and priced at $20 general, $10 UH-Hilo/Hawaii Community College students (with a valid student ID) and children up to age 17. Tickets are available by calling the UH-Hilo box office at 932-7490 or ordering online at artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu.

Proceeds go toward providing dance opportunities for the community and perpetuating Dance Collective.