The Dance Extravaganza is set to make a vibrant return on October 26, 2023, at the UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center. This much-anticipated event will showcase over 80 dancers from various studios across the Big Island, celebrating the diverse tapestry of dance styles and storytelling. Starting at 5 p.m., the performance will take the audience through a spectrum of emotions, including joy, sadness, and inspiration, all as part of the Big Island Dance Council’s (BIDC) 50th anniversary celebrations.
The roots of the Dance Extravaganza stretch back to 1976, the year following the council’s establishment. Initially, it featured multi-genre performances, including jazz, ballet, modern dance, and tap, becoming an eagerly awaited annual event for 14 years. Following a transition to the Spring Fling event, which ran from 1991 to 2001, the Dance Extravaganza has now returned after a 24-year hiatus. The revival is spearheaded by Trina Nahm-Mijo, a founding member of BIDC and professor emerita at Hawaii Community College.
Dynamic Performances and Notable Choreographers
This year’s event, dubbed Dance Extravaganza 2.0, will feature contributions from eight local dance studios, including the Kona Dance and Performing Arts Center, Prince Dance Institute, and Island Dance Academy. The opening performance will be provided by Halau Hula Kauluola, setting an energetic tone for the evening.
Two distinguished guest choreographers will also take the stage. Peter Rockford-Espirit and his Tau Dance Theater from Oahu will perform a traditional Samoan dance called “Kava” alongside an original Hawaiian-influenced ballet set to Amy Hanaiali‘i Gilliom’s piece “Palehua.” Additionally, Kea Kapahua, a UH-Hilo instructor, will present her work titled “Hali‘a Aloha No Kaimu,” a tribute to her family roots that has been selected for the 2025 American College Dance Association Festival in Washington, D.C.
The concert will also pay homage to the late Earnest Morgan, founder of BIDC. Two of his signature pieces will be performed: “For All We Know” by Meera DeCourt and “Ku‘u Home O Kahalu‘u” by Kapahua.
Exhibitions and Workshops Enhance the Experience
In addition to the evening’s performances, a historical exhibit highlighting past Dance Extravaganzas from 1976 to 1991 will be on display at the Mo‘okini Library’s Kaho‘olawe Gallery until the day of the concert. This exhibit will provide attendees with a rich context of the event’s legacy in the Big Island’s dance culture.
The weekend will also include a workshop titled “Moving Stories,” led by Rockford-Espirit on October 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the UH-Hilo Old Gym. This session will delve into his journey towards Pohuli, a unique movement modality influenced by Hawaii and Pacific island cultures, as well as the significant contributions of Morgan to contemporary dance.
Tickets for the Dance Extravaganza are priced at $25 for adults and $20 for BIDC members. Children aged 12 and under can attend for $20, or $15 for BIDC members. For more information regarding ticket purchases and event details, interested parties can contact Nahm-Mijo at [email protected].
The Dance Extravaganza promises an unforgettable evening, celebrating the vibrant dance community of the Big Island while honoring its rich history and future.
