"I’ve always been interested in dancing. After dancing hula for 22 plus years, it was time to learn my own heritage dancing. I enjoy taking lessons from Sensei Nakachi because she speaks English & Japanese. It makes is easier to understand. Watching Sensei’s dancing encouraged me to take Okinawan dance. She is a great teacher, which makes the class even better."
"To master Kajiyadefu and one day dance in Okinawa."
Sharon - January 2003
"I love the beauty, strength, peace, and passion of the Okinawan spirit exemplified in Okinawan dance."
"I would like to be a bridge between cultures & languages and work for a peaceful world."
Gerald - 2000
My goal is to fully give from my heart, my self, and my spirit to my family and to our dojo that gave me the confidence to perform. For me, Okinawan dance and music is from the heart.
Skye - 1999
I have always had a great appreciation for Okinawan dance. When I met Frances Sensei, I had just returned from three years in Okinawa. When I saw how beautifully she danced, it made me want to learn how to also dance too. My goal is to my best in this recital and to keep learning about our rich Okinawan culture.
Toshiko - 1999
"I am Okinawan, but I didn’t know anything about Okinawa, so I decided to study about it through the dances."
"Someday, I wish to do a wonderful performance in public."
Florence - September 2000
When I learned my first Okinawan dance, the moment when I knew when to start, and to walk on stage to be in position before the singing starts was a defining moment for me. Learning a dance, and performing a dance gives one a sense of accomplishment. My goal is to learn the dances so well that it becomes a pleasure to perform. Dance to me, is to have my senses become in tune with my body.
