About Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua'eokalani
Welcome to our esteemed traditional Halau Hula program! We are delighted to offer you the opportunity to delve into the rich heritage of Hula and experience a profound journey of cultural transmission. It's important to note that this program is not for everyone; it calls for dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to put in the effort to truly embrace the art of Hula.
Our Kumu Hula, who has undergone formal training, plays a vital role in passing down the knowledge acquired throughout generations. Their expertise is rooted in a specific Hula tradition and hula genealogy, where the teachings have been passed on through an unbroken line extending back to ancient times. In this time-honored tradition, the Kumu Hula becomes the living embodiment of knowledge for their students, ensuring that the wisdom is faithfully transmitted to the next generation in a structured and ancient manner.
If you choose to embark on this journey with us, you'll be immersed in a specific body of material that each haumana (student) is expected to master at every level of study. Our training method perpetuates the ancient ways of learning, where repetition is key. You'll be encouraged to dance the movements until they are imprinted in your body's memory, forming the foundation of traditional learning.
While this path may require effort and commitment, it is through this dedication that the true beauty and significance of Hula are revealed. We warmly welcome those who are eager to embrace the traditional art of Hula and carry it forward with authenticity and respect. If you're ready to sweat, grow, and connect with the profound essence of Hula, we invite you to join us on this remarkable journey of cultural preservation and self-discovery.
Policies
Hula Student Guidelines - What We Teach
Welcome to Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua’eokalani, where our mission is to preserve and perpetuate the cherished tradition of hula passed down through generations of kumu hula. As a beginner, you will be introduced to the basic hula steps and terminology. For intermediate and advanced students, you will have the opportunity to learn hula choreography accompanied by Hawaiian mele, or songs. While knowledge of the Hawaiian language is not mandatory, you will gradually learn to sing or chant (kahea) the words to many of the songs during your studies.
Please note that progression to the next level is solely at the discretion of the Kumu, and there is no guaranteed advancement for hula students.
Class Representatives:
Each class is facilitated by at least one representative who will keep you informed about upcoming events and classwork. Make sure to introduce yourself to your class rep and provide them with your contact information (email and telephone) so that you can stay updated on class and event information. Regularly check your email or visit the Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua’eokalani website (http://maikikaliko.com) for any updates.
Guidelines for Behavior:
Hula's origins date back to a distant past, and its teaching methods have evolved over the years. Despite these changes, there are still rules of behavior that govern how we conduct ourselves within the halau, during classes, and in our interactions with the kumu hula and their assistants.
Formal Policies and Procedures:
Non-Discrimination Policy: Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua’eokalani welcomes students of all races, colors, nationalities, and ethnic backgrounds. We do not discriminate in any aspect of our educational policies, admissions, scholarships, employment, or other halau programs.
Personal Behavior Policies:
Maintain personal hygiene and groom appropriately. Ensure that all garments are clean and pressed.
The halau uniform for both male and female students consists of black or grey t-shirts or tank tops.
Kane dancers are recommended to wear loose-fitting shorts.
Wahine dancers must wear hula pa‘u with shorts or bloomers underneath, with specific variations based on their level.
Long hair for both kane and wahine should be neatly secured in a bun, pulled back, or braided.
Notify your class representative if you are running late, unable to attend class, or are unwell. Timely communication is essential.
If you know in advance that you will miss a class, it is your responsibility to catch up on the material covered.
Questions are welcome, but please ask at appropriate moments and avoid disrupting the class.
Visitors interested in joining our programs are invited to observe or participate in one class. Subsequent visits will require a $25.00 walk-in session fee.
Parents are welcome to observe from the designated area, and if young siblings accompany them, they should remain quiet and not disrupt the class.
Traditional Hawaiian Healing Arts Protocol:
Always show respect to your instructors and assistants. Address the kumu as "Kumu" and kokua as "Uncle" or "Auntie" (e.g., "Loea" for Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett). At the beginning and end of class, help maintain the cleanliness and order of the classroom by assisting with cleaning tasks. During instruction, maintain attentiveness and refrain from disrupting the class. Learn through observation and thoughtful questioning. Respect sacred items such as hula pa‘u, kihei, and implements; handle them with care and reverence. The phrase "ai ha‘a" signifies both physical bending and humility. Embrace humility and show respect for those with more experience in the program. When visiting another class, be considerate as a guest and remain at the back of the room. Students will be placed in appropriate classes based on skill level as determined by the Kumu. Regular attendance is crucial for successful progress as choreography is taught progressively.
Final Points to Remember:
The classroom is a place of learning, not a playground. Discourage children from running, yelling, or engaging in disruptive behavior. Practice is essential for improvement. Record classes (audio and video) or take notes to support your practice at home. If you decide that Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua’eokalani is not the right fit for you, show respect by informing the Kumu of your decision and your future plans.
Thank you for choosing Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua’eokalani as your hula school. We look forward to embarking on this hula journey with you and preserving this beautiful tradition together.
Kumu Hula
Na Kumu Hula
Michael Kalikolaua'eokalani Ko is the esteemed Kumu Hula (Hula Teacher) of Pa Hula Maikikalikolaua'eokalani, carrying on the rich tradition of hula. He has dedicated himself to the art since 2000 under the guidance of the revered Loea (Master) Frank Kawaikapuokalani K. Hewett. In May 2012, Michael underwent the sacred tradition of 'uniki, marking a significant milestone in his hula journey.
In his teachings, Michael upholds the authentic ways of hula, ensuring his students first learn the foundational steps and ancient hula before delving into the more modern hula 'auana style. This approach sets him apart and is a testament to his commitment to preserving the true essence of hula, which is considered remarkable in today's context.
Beyond California, Michael's influence extends throughout the continental United States as he conducts workshops, sharing the beauty and significance of hula with passionate enthusiasts nationwide. His dedication and passion for traditional hula have touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving a lasting impact on the perpetuation of this cherished cultural art form.
Regenerate response
The Foundation of our Halau
Kawaikapuokalani K. Hewett
Pa Hula Maikikalolaua'eokalani proudly upholds the esteemed tradition passed down by our revered Loea, Frank Kawaikapuokalani K. Hewett, and the esteemed Kuhai Halau O Kawaikapuokalani Pa Olapa Kahiko. Hailing from Kane'ohe, Hawaii, Loea comes from a long line of hula and healing arts practitioners, carrying forward a rich legacy.
Loea's journey in hula began in 1972 when he became a devoted student of Kahuna Emma deFries. His dedication culminated in the sacred tradition of 'uniki, which he underwent in November 1980, a profound milestone in his hula path.
Throughout his illustrious career, Loea has had the honor of performing with and being mentored by numerous hula and healing masters. These luminaries include Genoa Keawe, Iolani Luahine, Mae Loebenstein, Lani Kalama, Edith Kanaka‘ole, Kaui Zuttermeister, George Naope, among many other esteemed figures. Such incredible mentorship has shaped Loea into an exceptional hula practitioner and healer, infusing his teachings at Pa Hula Maikikalolaua'eokalani with the wisdom and spirit of those who came before him.
With profound respect for tradition and a commitment to preserving the essence of hula, Loea continues to inspire and nurture the hula community, ensuring that the legacy of this treasured art form thrives for generations to come.
