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Cheryl Flaharty

Artistic Director at IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre

Cheryl Flaharty is the founder and Artistic Director of IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre, a premier dance ensemble based in Hawai'i.2 She established the company in 1990 and has been choreographing all of its performances since then.1 Flaharty is known for her visionary approach to dance, blending Eastern, Western, and indigenous influences to create unique, viewer-attuned performances.2

Raised in Hawaii, Flaharty received a B.A. in Dance and began her career as a dancer in New York City in the late 1980s.13 She attended Radford High School in Honolulu.4 Her interest in mythology, particularly Hawaiian myths and legends, began at a young age and has significantly influenced her work.1

Flaharty is renowned for creating intricate costume designs, which she only learned to draw a few years ago.1 Her productions often feature elaborate costumes, staging, and a mix of dance, music, and visual elements to create immersive theatrical experiences.2 With over 34 years of experience, she has created more than 300 costumes and choreographed numerous performances.5

Under Flaharty's leadership, IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre has gained recognition, being voted "Hawaii's Best Dance Company" by the Honolulu Weekly.2 The company performs for an annual statewide audience of 25,000 and has toured nationally and internationally.2

Related Questions

What inspired Cheryl Flaharty to start IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre?
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What are some unique elements in the costumes designed by Cheryl Flaharty for "Oh My Goddess!"?
How does Cheryl Flaharty's background influence her dance theatre's productions?
What challenges did Cheryl Flaharty face while creating the costumes for "Oh My Goddess!"?
Cheryl Flaharty
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Location

Kailua, Hawaii, United States