Arts
Maui Prep Dance
K–12 Dance Curriculum
Movement, Musicality and Storytelling
Dance at Maui Prep is closely integrated with the broader Performing Arts program. Students collaborate with the drama, theatre and music departments on school productions, where choreography enhances storytelling and students experience the collaborative nature of the performing arts.
Each level builds upon previously learned skills, allowing students to grow technically while developing their own artistic voice.
The Dance Pathway
From First Steps to the Main Stage
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Kindergarten–5th Grade
Lower School
Every student takes a weekly 45-minute class exploring rhythm, spatial awareness and expressive movement, plus Hula instruction for six months of the year.
- Weekly: 45-minute dance class
- Six months: Hula instruction
- Performs at: Halloween Dance Assembly, Lower School Musical, May Day and Arts Night
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Grades 6–8 · Elective
Middle School
About two hours a week, with a curriculum that changes through the year. Students also take Hula in the second semester.
- Quarters 1–2: Musical Theatre Dance
- Quarter 3: Contemporary Dance & Choreography
- Quarter 4: Commercial Dance Performance
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Grades 9–12 · Advanced Elective
Upper School
About three hours a week, deepening technical ability and artistic expression while gaining real performance experience.
- Semester 1: Musical Theatre Dance
- Semester 2: Commercial Dance & Conditioning
Styles of Dance
A Diverse Range of Styles
Students are introduced to a diverse range of dance styles throughout the program. Each level builds upon previously learned skills.
- Jazz
- Hip Hop
- Musical Theatre
- Contemporary
- Creative Movement
- Hula
What Students Gain
Skills Beyond the Studio
- Confidence and stage presence
- Physical strength, flexibility and coordination
- Discipline and perseverance
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Creativity and artistic expression
- Performance and presentation skills
These experiences help students grow as both performers and individuals.
Performance Opportunities
Sharing Their Work All Year
Performance is an essential element of the Maui Prep dance experience. May Day is a signature cultural event that celebrates Hawaiian traditions through music, dance and community, and dance students play a significant role in this cherished annual celebration.
- Lower School Halloween Dance Assembly
- Holiday Highlights
- Middle and Upper School Musical Theater Production
- Lower School Musical Theater Production
- May Day Celebration
- Arts Night
Where We Dance
Learning Spaces
List of 4 items.
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Music Room
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Rehearsal Studio
The rehearsal studio, located on the main Maui Prep campus, is a multipurpose room devoted to the drama and dance. -
Chin Studio at the Bozich Center
The Chin Studio is a multi-purpose room primarily used as a dance studio in the Bozich Center. The room features wall-to-wall mirrors, portable ballet barres, and a luxury sprung dance floor. -
Graham Theater at the Bozich Center
The Graham Theater, part of the Bozich Center, is the main stage for Maui Prep productions
Program Leadership
Nathalie Smith
Director of Performing Arts
Nathalie holds a Bachelor's degree in Performance Theory and Practice (Dance Studies) from the University of Western Sydney and a Postgraduate Bachelor's Degree in Teaching (Secondary Education). Her graduating choreography was selected for a statewide showcase at the Sydney Opera House, and she spent seven years as a lead choreographer and educator with the National Youth Dance Theatre.
She developed the inaugural dance curriculum at Westall Secondary College in Melbourne and has taught in several Sydney schools. She is passionate about helping students develop confidence through strong foundational skills while creating meaningful opportunities to perform, collaborate and grow as artists.
Find your stage at Maui Prep
Come see our studios, rehearsal spaces and the Graham Theater in person.
About
Maui Preparatory Academy is a preschool through 12th grade private school located in West Maui.
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