1986-2026
In 1986, a small group of passionate young dancers stepped up with a vision to cultivate dance excellence through the devotion to nurture discipline, character, and community. Honolulu Dance Studio (HDS) inspires strong technique, artistic expression, and high academic standards—the foundations that continue to shape generations of dancers. Under Cathy Watson-Izumi’s direction, the original youth performing team, Honolulu Gurlz Dance Co., trained at Dance Works Hawaii studio (founded by Simeon Den and Marie Takazawa). In 1990, Honolulu Gurlz relocated to Waterfront Athletic Club and officially became Honolulu Dance Studio. By 2008, HDS established its current home at 1030 Queen Street where it continues as a cornerstone with dance communities in Hawai’i.
In 2010, Cathy Izumi expanded training with all-styles of hip-hop in partnership with Jared Ake of Boogie Down Hawaii (BDH) and the Studio diversified its artistry. The unified performance companies share artistic excellence through the HDS training in classical, refined technique and BDH developing dynamic, competitive hip-hop styles. Together, they provide elite training for dancers ranging from age 3 through adult, supporting early instruction to professional-level performance in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop. Over the years, HDSxBDH have competed and performed nationally and internationally to earn an abundance of top honors. The studio remains active locally and internationally through competitions, productions, and charitable events and continues to uphold its core mission—maintaining exceptional performance quality, healthy studio relationships, and a balance between artistic commitment and academic success. HDSxBDH takes pride in developing technical and versatile dancers and in shaping industry leaders, choreographers, and professionals.