Kapahulu Center

The 2014 Obon season may be over but bon dance classes are starting!
I recommend the bon dance classes at the Kapahulu Center!
Classes just started and for the beginner and for those who have experience, attending the beginning class will set the foundation for proper footwork and basic choreography. The nice part is that the class allows the Sensei to break down choreography as well as teach the storyline and history of the dances.
Some tips to consider:
* be at the front of line to learn and don’t be afraid to ask questions to Joyce Sensei.
* bring water and towel.
* if can bring a dance towel, uchiwa, batchi sticks.
*where comfortable clothing and shoes.
*all levels welcome.
* enthusiasm and smile!
Here is the price:
Beginner Class: Saturday, September 27, 2014 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (w/​15 min break).
If you have any questions contact the Kapahulu Center!

I attended my first bon dance class last Saturday and definitely plan to continue when time permits!
Beginner bon dance class: Saturdays, 10:00 — 11:30 am
Positive perks:
–Plenty of street parking in the surrounding Kapahulu neighborhood.
–Large indoor practice space. Good rain or shine.
–Friendly, welcoming classmates. I met and chatted with 6 or so individuals in my first class!
–Supportive atmosphere to learn. It’s okay to ask questions if you’re unsure about footwork, hand motions, etc.
–Knowledgeable instructor who performs and attends bon dances.
–Dance practice set-​up allows for ease of learning. When learning new dances, students line up in rows to practice walking the length of the room. After practicing a few times, students will form a large circle with the instructor demonstrating the movements in the middle of the circle. (At bon dances, sometimes it’s difficult to follow along because it’s too crowded to see the experienced dancers.)
–Bön dance season in Hawaii is from June — September. This class begins every year in January and continues throughout.
Tip:
–When lining up to practice the dance, go to the front if possible. It will be easier to watch/​follow Sensei Joyce.
I attended bon dances as a child and always enjoyed eating the ono food! About 7 years ago, I started attending a couple of bon dances during bon dance season and fell in love with the dancing. This year, I attended one (or two) bon dances every weekend! I’ve been on the lookout for a bon dance class (besides joining a club) and this is the only I’ve found! I’d love to learn of others — if you know.
This bon dance class definitely satisfies my need to dance during non-​bon dance season. This class teaches the fundamentals of each dance! And I get to learn the names of the dances, tips to making each dance simpler, etc!