For over 20 years, the main goal of our hālau has been to teach the hula of our ancestors. As you engage in the practices of hula, our hope is that you cultivate a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian cultural traditions and find inspiration in your everyday life through applying what you learn.
Hālau Ho'oulu I Ke Kapa means “School of Inspiration in the Pā'ū Design,” and Leimomi weaves this mission into each of her teachings that she passes on to her haumāna, or students. Upon joining the halau, members are given their own cream colored pā'ū skirt which they don at every practice and sometimes performances. At first it starts off bare, but after attending and completing a hālau cultural activity, they are given an 'ohe kapala or bamboo stamp to imprint a native Hawaiian kapa design onto their skirt. The many stamps and patterns accumulated over time is unique to each member, and shares the narrative and history of that individual dancer every time they wear their skirt.
Our hālau was founded and is led by Kumu Hula Leimomi Kiyono, who is a graduate of Kumu Hula Puluelo Park.
She has performed as a dancer
throughout the state of Hawai'i, as well as Japan, and the experiences gained has led Leimomi to take her education and knowledge to another level: teaching.
Whether you're a beginner or seasoned dancer, we build upon your current hula level to develop a strong foundation in dance and chant.
While lessons are held for each age group / class type, students are more than welcome to join in on as many lessons as they'd like or are interested in!
Hālau members are given access to our Hula in the Park classes! These are held in 6 week session increments. Attend one or all, the choice is yours!
From creating your own hula implements, to identifying native plants and animals on hiking excursions, we believe in immersing our students in Hawaiian cultural traditions and practices.
Cultural connections are made and learned outside of the classroom, and so we actively engage with our community through classes, workshops, retreats, performances, and events.
When you join our hālau, you immediately gain an 'ohana for life. Many of our haumāna have been with us for over 15 years, and we wouldn't be who we are today without their love and support.
Please note: Recurring students are provided with a discount, which can be applied once you have been a member of the halau for one year. Current student pricing is shown first, followed by new students (ex: $25 (current) / $40 (new).
(ages 3-6)
Liko is the bud of a flower or leaf. At this age the students will begin to "grow" as they learn simple hula steps and stories of old.
(ages 7-12)
The Lehua is a beautiful flower prominent in hula folklore. In this class, students will blossom with the love of the hula and hula steps become a little more difficult.
(ages 13-17)
The Māmane is a beautiful, yellow flowering plant known for its fragile flowers yet resilient wood. In this class, students will learn the importance of Hawaiian culture through song, chant, and dance, and take on more responsibility in the hālau.
(ages 18+)
The Mamo class highlights the yellow flower of the ‘ōhi‘a lehua which is endemic to Hawai‘i and refers to both the tree and its flower. Ōhiʻa is one of the first plants to grow when new land is formed, helping to create livable habitats for other species to flourish. So in this class, whether new or seasoned, all aspects of the hula will be touched upon.
(seniors / kupuna)
Papa Kukui refers to the kupuna or senior members of the Halau. The kukui nut tree is a symbol of enlightenment, protection, guidance and peace in Hawaiian culture, and so this class level is perfect for our kupuna who are looking for a little exercise and and a whole lot of fun.
Payments can be made on a monthly, half-yearly and yearly schedule. However discounts are provided if you opt for the latter two options. Please reach out to us for any questions or more information.
If you're curious to learn more about what it means to be a student
at Hālau Ho'oulu I Ke Kapa, feel free to reach out to us below!
We'd love to chat and share more!
A Hui Hou! Mahalo for stopping by!
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