JOMDC is thrilled to announce the return of veteran dance educator, producer, and choreographer, Miya Hisaka. Miya returns to the DMV after a stint on the West Coast – she’s bi-coastal now, returning to continue her work with her dance company, DC Contemporary Dance Theatre/El Teatro de Danza Contemporanea, and their exciting upcoming season. She is also teaching at groundbreaking arts institutions and colleges on both coasts and is managing various creative projects in CA and DC. We sat down with Miya to catch up on all things dance and what is inspiring her the most these days.
Welcome back Miya! Did you miss us? YES, ABSOLUTELY! As great as the West Coast is and my students were, I missed my many JOMDC adult students and community – a lot. As one of JOMDC’s most senior faculty members, some 30 years of teaching here, JOMDC is my second home. I can’t wait to return to teaching and dance once again with all my inspirational students.
You’re teaching ballet for us beginning July 17 (and we can’t wait!). Is there anything we should know before we come back to your class? In CA I got my Pilates Certification as a personal trainer and so I hope to incorporate this knowledge into my DC classes. Starting Friday, July 17th, from 6:30-7:30 pm, I begin teaching a new Pilates/Floor Barre/Foam Roller Class. JOMDC just purchased new foam rollers too! I want students of all abilities to come and decompress from long work days. Give yourself an hour of somatic heaven!
You’ve been traveling a lot – tell us what you’re working on, or what has inspired your teachings lately?
In the Bay Area, I was fortunate to work as as one of the Directors of Dance at East Bay Center for the Performing Arts. I taught in the the heart of Richmond’s Iron Triangle, and Kaiser Permanente’s amazing 20 million dollar new facility. It was the closest thing to teaching at the National School of Dance in El Salvador and I felt right at home. I was inspired by truly talented students – mostly first generation Salvadorans and Africans within the most diverse community imaginable. I was honored to work with them and will always remain on the staff.
Are you looking for dancers? Will there be auditions soon? DCCDT/TDC just did auditions this past month and added some fabulous new members! However, if you’re a modern or ballet dancer interested in auditioning, please contact me directly at miyahisaka@gmail.com.
After all these years teaching ballet, what is your best advice for the new dancer?You do not have to take dance class for the sole purpose of becoming a professional dancer. Come to dance and to simply enjoy it! Integrate it into your life to add to your daily quality of life.
What is your best advice for the experienced dancer? What do you say to those who need some new motivation? Always maintain a clear vision of who you are, your aesthetic, a strong, disciplined work ethic, and a lot of humility. Dance for yourself and use dance for how it enhances your personal journey.
Misty Copeland is all over the news! What do you think of her recent groundbreaking position as a principal dancer for ABT? FABULOUS!! She is such a talented dancer and an inspiration to all. Clearly she is one who has been clear from day one regarding her goals in life. She truly achieved it!
MIYA’S NEW SUMMER SCHEDULE BEGINS July 17th:
Fridays, 6:30-7:30 pm at FH – Pilates/Floor Barre/Foam Roller Class
Fridays, 7:30-9 pm at FH – Intermediate Ballet
MIYA’S FALL SCHEDULE BEGINNING Sept 8th:
Wed. 6:30pm – 8:00pm – Adv. Beginner Ballet – Friendship Heights
Wed. 8:00pm – 9:30pm -Beg. Ballet – Friendship Heights
..and maybe more!
UPCOMING PERFORMANCES
DCCDT/TDC in the celebration of DC’s diverse and rich cultural heritage at DANCE PLACE, Jan. 8-10, 2016.
If you are interested in booking DCCDC/TDC please contact: miyahisaka@gmail.com
For company details visit www.teatrodedanza.org
