Dance tours are more than just a vacation. They are a chance to inspire your dancers, perform in exciting new places, strengthen team bonding and make memories that last long after the trip ends. Dance Informa caught up with Emilee Anderson from 42nd Street Tours, industry leader in performance travel, to take readers somewhere unexpected: Hawaii.
Far from the bright lights of Broadway, a dance tour to Hawaii offers studios a completely different kind of magic with stunning performance destinations, meaningful cultural activities and the chance to experience dance in one of the world’s most beautiful settings.
When asked why a studio would choose Hawaii as a destination instead of a theater-focused place like New York City, Anderson says, “Many studios want to give families a balance of performance, learning and relaxation. It feels like a reward or celebration — especially after a big competition season or milestone.” Studios can utilize this big trip as “a motivational experience and something exciting to work toward. It can attract more students to join performance teams or stay committed through the season.”
A trip to Hawaii can also be as much of a family trip as a dance studio excursion. “Parents and dancers often travel together,” Anderson adds. “Hawaii trips are more family-inclusive, making it easier to make memories. A New York trip might be more dancer-intensive, but a Hawaii trip is more of a shared adventure.”
Studio owners should keep in mind that it takes advance planning with a trip to Hawaii compared to stateside destinations. Anderson suggests, “Aim for summer or fall when families have more down time and flights can be cheaper. Twelve to 18 months is not an uncommon timeframe to plan for Hawaii.”
Hawaii will provide studios with a perfect combination of culture and excitement. Dancers can expect “traditional luaus and island adventures to one-of-a-kind dance workshops and plenty of time to unwind in paradise.” Performance opportunities consist of “groups taking the stage at the vibrant Ala Moana Center, while solos, duets and trios shine in a stunning cultural setting at the Polynesian Cultural Center — offering dancers unforgettable performance experiences in paradise.”
We spoke with Molly from Dance Express Company, who took her studio to Hawaii with 42nd Street Tours not once but twice, about 10 years apart. She adds, “My dancers loved the idea of going to Hawaii and dancing! Getting to travel somewhere families may not get to on their own and getting to travel/be in Hawaii with your friends was very cool to them!” Some of the highlights for their studio included “group dinners, group activities, hiking Diamond Head as a group, and a group luau. Families had plenty of time to do things on their own (or with small groups) and plenty of dance time/moments as well. Once-in-a-lifetime trip for sure.”
If you’re considering a dance tour with your studio, Hawaii is a top choice. “Hawaii appeals to studio owners and dancers because it combines performance, education, culture and adventure in one unforgettable experience. Dancers can showcase their skills at stunning venues, participate in unique workshops, and immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture through luaus and local activities. With plenty of island adventures and family-friendly opportunities, Hawaii trips offer a perfect balance of artistic growth, fun and lasting memories.”
To learn more about Hawaii tours and other dance tour destinations, visit www.42ndstreettours.com.
By Abby DeReamer of Dance Informa.
