Dance conveys the spirit and soul of the Okinawan culture. The time and dedication it takes for each student to prepare for a recital is immeasurable, and sometimes it can be a struggle. My goal is to be the best that I can be. For me, dance is a type of meditation from my everyday routine.
Chikako, Yuushuu Sho - July 1992
Okinawan dance has been a way for me to clear my mind and concentrate. When I am practicing, I forget all of my problems, and become one with the dance. I hope to attain enough dance proficiency so that audiences will be able to understand the song's meaning by just watching my movements. And, that I will do justice to the dance as well as the art. My dream is that a group of us 'will perform in a country that has never seen Okinawa dance before, and to spread the art of Okinawan dance all over the world.
Anna, Yuushuu Sho - October 1998
Ever since I was little, there was Okinawan music around me. My great grandfather used to play his sanshin with friends and relatives. They had fun drinking and dancing. I guess it made me enjoy listening and dancing to Okinawan songs. When I hear Okinawan music, I get a rush, a feeling of happiness, and I want to dance and cheer. When I am performing I feel like I'm in the air. For each recital there is a satisfaction of trying to master a dance - a dance that will last forever.
Alison, Shinjin Sho - April 1999
Learning a new dance has always been a memorable moment for me. At first I struggle to memorize the movements but in the end, I always feel that it was worth it. My love for dance comes from being able to express what the dance is about as it tells a story to the audience. Dance is a universal language that people from all walks of life can relate to and it is a form of expression of how life in Okinawa was like before. To me, dance means that I am helping to visually preserve the Okinawan culture.
Mina, Shinjin Sho - 1999
I love to dance because it is an aesthetic and pleasurable sight to see. I have always enjoyed watching Okinawan performances, and now I want to be part of what brings enjoyment to the audience. The greatest struggle for me was to overcome my stage fright and make sure I could dance even if my mind went blank. To do that I have to practice until I remember the dance steps one hundred percent. Dance is a way to keep me involved with my culture. It also helps me learn about teamwork and to build my confidence. Also, dance is very fun!!
Melissa - 1999
As a student, one practices for month after month to learn a dance and what it means, so we know it by heart. One of the greatest moments in dance for me is to have the opportunity to perform in front of people I know and love, and to hear their clapping in appreciation. Dance takes my mind off of everyday life and makes me go to a place where no one else can touch or find.
