Interview with Malia Connor

Meet Malia Connor!

Malia Connor, creator of Malia Movement Company and all around incredible Queen Mermaid! This is one of those people that if you have the benefit of meeting her, you will never forget her even if you never speak again. Her aloha is strong! I'm thankful she's given me some of her time.

Who is Malia Connor? Malia Connor is a dancer, choreographer, spoken word artist, photographer, single mother and half mermaid 

Why did you decide to create a dance company? I began Malia Movement Company 20yrs in response to being told (at 25) that I should start looking into other fields since I was getting too old to dance professionally. The focus of my group is to heal Women of Color with movement.

What is the significance of movement? For me, Dunham dance has saved my life. quite literally. Movement is like the ocean for me... serious 'church'.

What is your kinship to mermaids? As far as mermaids, I come from a long line of mermaids on my Kanaka Maoli side. it's in my blood... divers, fishermen, surfers, salty ocean lovas

How has having a community of women, a sisterhood, helped you? Sisterhood, like all of my important relationships is mandatory for my health. We live in a white dominated patriarchal system so any connection I can make with another Woman becomes crucial for my survival.

Name a woman that has inspired you and why. Currently the one Woman that inspires me daily is my 14year old daughter Oni. She is the reason why I continue to create.

Last thoughts or words of encouragement to share? Kiki.. thank you for being you. Your light is beautiful and I enjoy bathing in it. Here's to all of us Queens taking night swims in each other's beauty. XOXOXO

THANK YOU MALIA! I share the same love to her as a Queen moving along on this earth. She has encouraged me with her sisterhood and I'm thrilled to highlight such a beautiful spirit during this Women's History Month. 

Peace, 

Kiki Poe