Save Our Studio: KTPS holds fundraiser to keep dance studio open

KAILUA-KONA — The Kona Theatre Preservation Society will offer dance workshops, live music and other fun during a fundraiser slated Saturday in Kealakekua.

KTPS’ S.O.S. (Save Our Studio) fundraiser runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the dance studio on Halekii Street, said Dance Instructor Marylei Drake. It is an effort to “resurrect” KTPS, which recently dissolved its nonprofit status to become a for-profit venture. The nonprofit formed in 2000 to preserve the still-shuttered Kona Theatre.

“We are now a for profit for nonprofits,” Drake said, adding that she’d like to work with nonprofits using the dance studio to throw fundraisers and other events. “Why not use this as a venue, it’s a perfect venue — it’s naked, it can be anything it needs to be.”

The S.O.S. event, which Drake is coordinating with Mike Sato, one of the founding members of Ride the Breaks, will feature free dance workshops for all ages and skills, as well as free classes in breakdance and hip hop. Ride the Breaks is a community celebration of hip hop culture. The group relies on the KTPS facility to host its workshops and events. Proceeds from RTB merchandise will support saving the KTPS studio.

Live music by Solomon Choo, among others, a craft and bake sale and a toy drive will round out the fun that day. Proceeds from the craft fair will benefit St. Jude Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

Info: Marylei Drake, 345-5803