About this project
Aloha! I am in the process of creating a dance camp on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaiian Paradise Dance Camp will give campers the opportunity to receive intensive dance training while enjoying the beauty and majesty of Hawaii.
Our dance curriculum includes instruction in ballet/pointe, jazz/musical theatre, contemporary, ballroom and a taste of hula. We will learn traditional choreography, as well as new works created by our staff. The campers will also have an opportunity to work on their own choreography. The two-week session will culminate in a public performance attended by a top New York agent.
While other dance camps stop here, we will also introduce our campers to the cultural and geological wonders of Hawaii. Through lunchtime presentations we will acquaint them with volcanology, astronomy, oceanography and botany, along with the history of the land and people of Hawaii. Participants will experience the thrills of watching lava flow from one of the world's most active volcanoes and star gazing on Mauna Kea, home of the world renowned Keck Telescope. They will visit beautiful black sand beaches and swim near basking sea turtles. They will enjoy a Polynesian luau, learn about the Paniolos (cowboys) of Hawaii, joining them in a real cattle drive, and much, much more.
Eventually, I plan to build the camp on my land on the Big Island, expand the length and number of sessions and to include adults as well. For now, I have found a beautiful space to rent, Kalani Honua, a well established oceanside yoga and dance retreat.
One of my priorities is giving back to my Hawaiian community. Many Hawaiian keiki (kids) do not have the opportunities available to their mainland counterparts, while many mainland kids are unfamiliar with the struggles of the indigenous people of Hawaii. Therefore, I want to bring them together and to provide scholarships for needy local students.
When I presented my ideas to Kalani they felt this fit in well with their vision, so we decided to collaborate. We are calling this part of the project Hawaii-NYC Kuka'i (exchange) Dance Camp. NYC is the cultural center of dance, and dance is central to the culture of Hawaii. I am very excited about this project and am looking forward to working with the talented people at Kalani.
I am now designing a magazine ad and creating my website. Initially I am looking for your assistance to help with advertising costs and scholarship funds. The rental should be covered by enrollment.
If all goes well this summer, construction on my land will then begin for next season. Your financial participation will be appreciated for that as well!
I am really excited about this venture. Early response has been overwhelmingly positive, and I eagerly await your contributions and feedback as I proceed with my project.
I hope you will join me in making my vision come true.
Mahalo,
Katya
FAQ
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35
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$4,175
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Funding Successful
This project successfully raised its funding goal on November 18, 2010.
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You will be listed on our Me'e wall at the camp, on our website and in our brochure. (Me'e is Hawaiian for hero)
Pledge $15 or more Pledge $15 or more
You will receive a signed mahalo (thank you) photo from us and our first group of campers.
Pledge $25 or more Pledge $25 or more
You will receive a DVD of the camp as our first campers experience it, including their first performance.
Pledge $125 or more Pledge $125 or more
If you live in the NY area, you will receive 2 hour long private dance lessons in either ballet, ballroom or tap.
Pledge $150 or more Pledge $150 or more
You will receive a tote bag, visor and sweat jacket hoody.
Pledge $2,500 or more Pledge $2,500 or more
One of our cabins for the campers will be named for you.
Project By
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I performed around the world as a ballet, jazz and ballroom dancer. Now it’s time for the next generation to do the dancing. I currently teach in NY and NJ.
Hawaii is an amazing place full of creative energy, and a wonderful place to learn about our planet. What better than to combine my two great loves and create my dance camp in Hawaii?
