As the sole project of Nova Arts Foundation, IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre is dedicated to the creation and performance of innovative dance/theatre works that provide transformational imagery and messages. IONA's vision is to effect a positive change in the community while providing opportunities for artists to evolve. The Company aspires to create high quality work that inspires social, personal, and spiritual growth, bridges cultural experiences, and provides a greater understanding of how the arts affect all of our lives.

Since 1990, under the guidance of Founder and Artistic Director Cheryl Flaharty, IONA has been a leader in the Hawaii dance community. Recognized for mounting unique works in top local theatres as well as diverse non-traditional locales and now on the Internet with ‘E-Seasons’ of virtual shows, IONA’s presentations always blaze a trail of creativity. IONA annually reaches as many as 25,000 individuals statewide and has toured to the western U. S. and Shanghai, China.