A vibrant array of dance styles—including Tongan, Afro-Cuban, contemporary, and hip-hop—will take center stage as graduating Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) students showcase their original choreography.
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Department of Theatre and Dance and Kennedy Theatre present MFA/BFA Dance Concert: Introspection, running from January 29 to February 2, at the Earle Ernst Lab Theatre.
Directed by UH Mānoa dance instructor Sami L.A. Akuna, this dynamic showcase highlights the creative journeys of its choreographers, reflecting their diverse perspectives and cultural influences.
Showcase spotlight
Hannah Archer’s “Painted People,” infused with tap and jazz elements examines self-identity and the passage of time. Archer invites audiences to find reflections of themselves in her work.
“I want the audience to see a bit of themselves in my piece and feel entertained and inspired by the entire show,” Archer said.
Nani Marcos’ “-apo” delves into ancestral respect and cultural identity, drawing on her Filipino-American heritage. Through storytelling, movement and sound, Marcos explores the significance of batok (traditional Filipino tattoos) as a medium for passing down traditions.
“This piece is about reconnecting with my culture and respecting our ancestors,” Marcos explains.
Stephen Isileli Kolokihakaufisi’s “Ritual” celebrates traditional Tongan dance with hip-hop and West African influences as a means of preserving cultural knowledge and community connection.
The concert also features Isabella Andrade’s “Mi Viejos,” Camille Dias’ “Limelight,” “Beige: An Afro Ballet” by Jonathan Clarke Sypert, “The Rite of the Heel” by Anneliese Wirsching, and Anu Shaw’s “Take One Take.”
Ticket information
Tickets are available for $8–$18. Performances will run Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:00 p.m., with a post-show Q&A on January 31. More on tickets at the Kennedy Theatre website or contact the box office at ktbox@hawaii.edu or (808) 956-7655.
