Image by Jason Guy
Kimiko’s Dance Journey
Born and raised in Rupert, Idaho, Kimiko fell in love with dance at the age of five. Her formal training began at eight years old at Centre Stage Studios of Dance and Performing Arts in Burley, Idaho, where she honed her technique and developed her passion for movement. In high school, she was both a cheerleader and dance team member, balancing athleticism with artistry.
Kimiko’s dedication earned her featured roles in The Nutcracker, including Clara, The Snow Queen, Dew Drop Soloist, The Doll, Chocolates, and Coffee. She also performed in various solo roles, showcased her talent at NFL football games and Disneyland, and was part of a competitive dance team that secured multiple wins across the West Coast and beyond.
She went on to dance with the Boise State University Harvey Neef Mane Line Dancers for the 2001-2002 season before stepping away from dance in 2003. However, her passion for movement never faded. She reentered the world of fitness and dance through Zumba® and Strong Nation® certifications, later becoming a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach, as well as a certified R.A.D. Women’s Self-Defense instructor in 2018 and 2019 in Santa Rosa, CA.
After witnessing the devastating fires in Northern California and navigating the economic impacts of COVID-19, Kimiko returned to her Idaho roots, determined to share her passion for movement with the community. Since 2022, she has been teaching dance at Studio Move Boise, and in 2024, she proudly stepped into the role of Assistant Coach for the Boise High School Dance Team. Her choreography for the Studio Move Boise Minis team’s routine, "Do What I Do," earned Diamond Overall at the 2024 Spotlight Dance Cup in Nampa, Idaho, showcasing her ability to inspire and elevate young dancers. Currently, she is in her 4th season with Studio Move with two competitive teams and her 2nd season at Boise High.
As a mom to two kiddos one is a dancer and the other a Taekwondo Black Belt, Kimiko finds joy in supporting her children’s journey while continuing her own. In her free time, she can be found choreographing, skiing with her fiancé and his child, and making space for self-care—because she believes that honoring oneself is just as important as guiding others.
With a deep belief that movement is more than just steps—it’s connection, empowerment, and expression, Kimiko is committed to inspiring dancers of all levels to move with confidence and passion.