Dance friends are forever friends

We all know that dance is great for the body, but what impact can it have on young minds? “Dance is about more than just physical movement,” says MADHU KASHYAP, founder of Hong Kong dance studio, Island Dance. “It’s about making friends, overcoming fears, and finding a way to express our feelings and share creative ideas in a supportive environment. And, for some young kids, dance changes lives. It’s everything!”

Island Dance has been bringing young dancers together for over 25 years. It’s now established as one of the city’s most sought-after studios, holding amateur performances at public events including Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, AIA Central Harbourfront Carnival, and even in Hong Kong’s famous Cathay Pacific Chinese New Year Night Parade.

These performance opportunities are life-changing – just ask senior Island Dance student CHRISTY CHEUNG. Christy says having the chance to perform in the CNY Night Parade was an extraordinary event. “It was such an eye-opening, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she says. “It taught us to be humble and grateful for such an incredible experience.”

These opportunities to perform at Hong Kong’s prestigious events are only one element in Christy’s love affair with the Island Dance community. “The friendships I’ve formed are incredible. We always have each other’s backs and I’m proud to say that my dance friends are the most supportive, sweetest and most genuine individuals I’ve ever met.”

For a final word, she adds: “As Ms Tia once said when she first taught our elite team, ‘Some friends are whatever, but dance friends are forever.’”