About Our Hālau

Our hālau is comprised of both men and women, young and old, ranging from 4 to 72 years of age. Our primary focus is on hula kahiko (ancient style), hula ʻauana (modern style), oli (chant), and nā mea hula (arts, crafts, implements). These traditions are shared through classes, workshops, retreats, performances, and events.

 

We produce performance events including Ashland Aloha Festival, held in and around Ashland. Our hālau also dances in Ashland's 4th of July parade (1st place awards in 2015, 2013, 2010 and 2009; 2nd place award in 2011 and 2018) and other City of Ashland events including Island Night: An Aloha State of Mind, Ashland World Music Festival, and the Festival of Lights; Interfaith Thanksgiving Services; and at other community or private events by invitation.

We have been honored to perform in Hawai'i at several esteemed events including E Mau Ana Ka Hula (The Hula is Perpetuated): A Tribute to King David Kalakaua in Keauhou, Na Mea Hawai’i Hula Kahiko program in Volcanoes National Park, at our own Ho'ike at Makaeo in Kona, as well as at the annual Cultural Festival at Pu'uhonua O Honaunau. In 2016, our hālau took the Overall Winner award at the Kupuna Hula Festival and Competition in Keauhou, along with First Place awards in the Solo Kane, Group Kane, and Mixed Kane/Wahine Divisions. In 2018, we attended the 5th Ka 'Aha Hula 'O Hālauaola (World Hula Conference), a 10-day gathering of Hula and Oli masters, practitioners, and enthusiasts. Our kumu and haumana also participated in the Opening Ceremony, along with hālau from the islands and around the world.

We have danced with many well-known and award-winning or nominated Hawaiian recording artists and bands, including Weldon Kekauoha, Walt Keale, Stephen Inglis, Da Ukulele Boyz, Hapa, Jeff Peterson, Nathan Aweau, the late Bill Tapia, Jerry Santos, and Mihana Souza.