KAMUELA, HI – Prince Dance Institute (PDI) is back this Fall with a full slate of performing arts classes. The performing arts school offers over twenty-five in-person classes at two locations in Waimea during its Fall Semester. PDI’s fall locations include its new PDI Headquarters and the Kahilu Theatre.

In its 17th year of serving the Hawai‘i Island community, the school offers dance, musical theatre, glee, aerial arts, and acrobatics classes. There is something available for all ages (2 and up) and all skill levels. There will be performance opportunities available for any interested students.

“If you are looking to make amazing friends, fuel your creativity, energize your body and mind while laughing and playing, then come experience a class at Prince Dance Institute,” stated PDI artistic director Angel Prince. “I know people are ready to get back out into the world to express themselves, connect, and create, and I can’t wait to see what this year brings for the Big Island and the arts.”

New spaces equal new opportunities. PDI recently secured a location in Waimea that will serve as its headquarters going forward. For years the school has utilized the Kahilu Theatre as its home base as a rental—PDI still has classes at that location this year—but now it has its own home that will allow for expanded hours and additional classes.

“This year, we are very excited to be in our new headquarters in Waimea, where most classes will be held,” Prince stated. “We have a few great new classes in the schedule and a couple of new teachers that we can’t wait to share with our community.

“These classes aren’t just for kids; we have plenty of offerings for adults as well,” she added. “We love meeting new people and sharing the joy of the performing arts with everyone who wants to experience the fun we are having!”

In addition to its new location, PDI is welcoming two new members to its teaching roster this Fall.

Mandy Abernathy is a professional dancer that has danced, performed, and competed in ballet for over a decade in California. Her primary focus as a dance teacher is to create a unique and supportive environment that fosters the love of dance. She believes this environment helps build confidence in her students, helping them be their best version on and off the stage.

Also joining the staff is Chase Hartle, PDI’s new Hip Hop instructor. Mr. Hartle is a hip hop, pop, footwork, and illusionist choreographer. He has performed at many showcases around Arizona, including a Phoenix Suns halftime show. His aim with his students is to encourage freedom of expression and individuality.

The Fall Semester begins on Monday, September 12, 2022, and runs weekly (Monday–Saturday) through Saturday, December 17, 2022.

Health and safety are paramount at PDI, and the school has safety protocols based on local and federal guidelines. Class sizes are limited and socially distanced. Everyone is required to wear a mask at the Kahilu Theatre location.

Fall Semester Instructors: Aleks Holmes, Angel Prince, Aria Wiley, Chase Hartle, Kat Ruess, Mandy Abernathy, Noelani Anderson, Sage Nicholson, and Shawna Gordon.

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PDI Headquarters is located at 64-974 Mamalahoa HWY, Kamuela, HI 96743 (next to Underground Pizza). Classes at PDI HQ are held Monday through Friday, between 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm, and on Saturdays, between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm.

Kahilu Theatre is located at 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, HI 96743. Classes at Kahilu Theatre are conducted on the Main Stage and in the Mike Luce Studio and are held Monday through Thursday, between 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm. The entry is through the loading dock door at the back of the theatre.

Fall Classes

Aerial Silks, Acrobatics, Ballet and Pointe, Contemporary Dance, Pre-Glee and Glee, Hip Hop, Jazz, Keiki Dance, Musical Theatre, Pilates, Trapeze, and more!

Enrollment Information

Registration is now open for Fall. For class schedules, registration, and fees, call Alina Jones, PDI managing director, at (808) 207-7754 or visit princedanceinstitute.com.