The Japanese dance group was originally led by Barbara Oshimo, who was the dance instructor from 1990 to 2010. She taught three groups – Seniors (Chidori Dancers), Intermediate (Fuji Dancers), and a children’s group. Barbara taught both children and adults traditional Japanese dances. After her retirement, Sets Oda took over the Seniors group, while Geraldine Vignuda led the Intermediate group. A children’s group was established in 2025.
The groups have performed at a variety of community events, including the LJCA Annual General Meeting, LJCA Summer Matsuri Festival, West Thunder Community Centre’s 20th Anniversary, Corn Roast, and Canada Day, Folklore Festival, St. Stephen’s Anglican Church Roast Beef Dinner, Jasper Place with the Sassy Seniors Group, and Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence. The group has also attended Japanese dance workshops in Calgary, Winnipeg, and Edmonton, and in 2023 was invited by the Aurora Dance Group in Winnipeg to attend the Silk & Sake Fundraiser celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Join Us
The Fuji Dancers practice on Mondays from 6:30–8:00 p.m., while the children’s group practices on Sundays from 2:30–3:30 p.m. If you are interested in joining our group, please call or text Geraldine Vignuda at (807) 627-5127 or email gvignuda@hotmail.com.
