About the group
The Boise Traditional Chinese Dance Group was started in 2004 as a cultural enrichment after-school program for the Boise Modern Chinese School. Over the years, the program has grown from one dance class to four dance classes and a performance group including both adult and children dancers, while still under the Boise Modern Chinese School. The two missions of the group are
- To serve the Chinese American community by maintaining its cultural heritage, and
- To introduce Chinese culture to American society through dance performances.
About the founder
Hua Yan is the founder and head instructor of the Boise Traditional Chinese Dance Group. She received the Traditional Arts Apprenticeship from the Idaho Commission on the Arts in 2005, 2007 and 2009. Besides teaching dancing, Hua has also taught the Chinese language in the Chinese school for 10 years. She was named a “Rotary distinguished Educator” in recognition of exceptional teaching and inspirational guidance of the students of Boise, Idaho by the Rotary Club of Boise in 2013.
Dancer by night, Scientist by day
In addition to her dance work, Hua works full-time as a molecular scientist in plant science for J. R. Simplot Company. She received her BS, MS and PhD degrees in plant biology at Wuhan University, China, where she won multiple national awards for her research. Hua did post-doctoral research in the Ohio State University, where she became a permanent U.S. resident through the outstanding scientist category.
In Hua's own words
“Giving back to my community means a lot to me.
During my dance activities, I am involved in teaching, dancing, choreography, costume design, and performance. I have improved my leadership and management skills. I can then bring my newfound skills and knowledge back to the community, to help in a more effective way. It is a good opportunity to make new friends and show appreciation to the community and the people who helped me.”
