Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula Introduce
Are you looking to connect with the rich, vibrant cultures of Polynesia right here in Arizona? Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula in Chandler offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic traditions of Hawaiian hula and other Polynesian dances. More than just a dance studio, this esteemed hālau (school) is a dedicated non-profit organization (operating under Hālau Kalikopuakalehua) committed to perpetuating the living cultures of Hawai'i, Tahiti, Sāmoa, Tonga, and Aotearoa (New Zealand) through their traditional arts, music, dance, language, and cultural practices. It's a place where you don't just learn steps; you become part of an 'ohana (family) and delve deep into the heart of Polynesian heritage.
Under the direction of Kumu Hula Nālani Kahoʻonei, Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula is recognized for its dedication to professionalism, kindness, and maintaining high expectations, resulting in "quality beyond compare." Students not only master traditional dance forms but also learn the associated language, cultural protocols, and even costume making, providing a truly comprehensive cultural education. The positive feedback from current members consistently highlights the incredible family atmosphere and the depth of learning offered, making it a true home for Polynesian culture enthusiasts in the Grand Canyon State. Whether you are a curious beginner or seeking to deepen your cultural understanding, Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula invites you to step into a world of rhythm, storytelling, and community.
Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula is conveniently located at 1929 E Ray Rd Ste 1, Chandler, AZ 85225, USA. This accessible Chandler address positions the hālau ideally for residents across the East Valley, including those in Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, and other surrounding communities. East Ray Road is a significant east-west arterial street, ensuring straightforward navigation to the studio. Its location within a commercial complex typically offers ample parking, providing convenience for attendees. The hālau's presence in Chandler, a thriving and family-friendly city, adds to its appeal, offering a pleasant and safe area for students to attend classes and events. This strategic accessibility underscores Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula's suitability as a prime destination for authentic Polynesian dance and cultural education in Arizona.
- Authentic Polynesian Dance Instruction: Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula specializes in teaching traditional Polynesian dance forms, including Hawaiian Hula (both Hula Kahiko - ancient and Hula 'Auana - modern), Tahitian 'Ori Tahiti, Samoan dance, Tongan dance, and Maori dance from Aotearoa (New Zealand).
- Language and Cultural Education: Beyond dance movements, students are immersed in the associated Polynesian languages (like Hawaiian language), cultural protocols, history, and the deep meanings behind the dances and chants.
- Costume Making: As part of the holistic cultural experience, students also learn the art of costume making, understanding the significance and traditional methods of creating authentic attire for their performances.
- Classes for All Ages and Skill Levels: The hālau welcomes students of all ages and abilities, from young keiki (children) and 'ōpio (youth) to makua (adults), catering to both beginners starting their journey and experienced dancers seeking to deepen their understanding.
- Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities to perform in a variety of settings, including community events, cultural festivals (such as the Arizona Aloha Festival), and showcases, allowing them to share their talents and perpetuate Polynesian culture.
- 'Ohana (Family) Environment: The hālau actively fosters a strong sense of family and community among its students and their families, creating a supportive and nurturing atmosphere.
- Technical and Disciplinary Training: Instructors maintain high expectations for students, ensuring they develop proper technique, discipline, and responsibility, leading to high-quality performances.
- Multi-Award-Winning Groups: The hālau includes multi-award-winning groups like Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula and Hālau Hula ʻO Kalikopuakalehua, showcasing their excellence in competitive and performance settings.
- Non-Profit Cultural Preservation: Operating as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the organization is dedicated to the preservation and sharing of Polynesian cultural arts, with all efforts and funds reinvested into their mission.
- Authenticity and Tradition: Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula is highly praised for teaching "true traditional Polynesian dance," ensuring that students learn the authentic forms, history, and cultural significance, not just the steps.
- Comprehensive Cultural Education: Beyond dance, the curriculum includes Hawaiian language, cultural practices, and costume making, providing a holistic and immersive learning experience that deepens students' connection to the heritage.
- Strong 'Ohana (Family) Environment: A recurring highlight from reviews is the incredible family atmosphere. Students and parents feel welcomed and become part of a supportive community, describing it as a "home" where everyone is treated like family.
- Professional and Nurturing Instruction: Kumu Hula Nālani Kahoʻonei is consistently described as a professional, kind, and great teacher who maintains high expectations, leading to exceptional quality in student performance and personal growth.
- High-Quality Performances: The result of the rigorous training and dedication is seen in the high quality of their performances, which are often described as "beyond compare" and professional on stage.
- Inclusivity: The hālau is described as a "welcoming and inclusive" space for students of all ages and skill levels, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals interested in Polynesian culture.
- Emphasis on Life Skills: Beyond dance, the program helps students develop essential life skills such as discipline, confidence, and resilience, which extend to everyday challenges.
- Community Engagement: The hālau actively participates in and contributes to the local community by sharing Polynesian culture through performances at various events and festivals.
- Non-Profit Dedication: Their 501(c)(3) non-profit status underscores their mission to preserve and share Polynesian cultural arts, ensuring that their focus remains on cultural perpetuation and accessibility.
Address: 1929 E Ray Rd Ste 1, Chandler, AZ 85225, USA
Phone: (808) 222-8281
Mobile Phone: +1 808-222-8281
For residents across Chandler and the greater Arizona community, Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula offers a truly unique and enriching cultural experience. Its convenient location on East Ray Road makes it easily accessible for families throughout the East Valley, ensuring a practical and convenient option for those seeking authentic Polynesian arts. What truly sets this hālau apart and makes it exceptionally suitable for locals is its profound commitment to cultural preservation, holistic education, and fostering a deep sense of 'ohana.
In a state as diverse as Arizona, having a dedicated space to learn and celebrate Polynesian cultures is invaluable. Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula provides not just dance lessons but an immersive journey into Hawaiian language, traditions, and costume making, enriching the lives of its students far beyond the dance floor. The supportive and family-like environment, praised by many, ensures that students feel a strong sense of belonging, fostering confidence and discipline that extends into their daily lives. Under the expert guidance of Kumu Hula Nālani Kahoʻonei, students receive top-tier instruction, preparing them for high-quality performances and instilling a lifelong appreciation for these beautiful art forms.
Whether you are a child eager to explore new cultures, a teenager seeking a unique artistic outlet, or an adult looking to connect with Polynesian heritage, Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula is an ideal local destination. It’s a place where tradition, community, and artistic passion converge, offering an authentic piece of Polynesia right here in Chandler, Arizona.
Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula Photos
Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula Location
Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula
1929 E Ray Rd Ste 1, Chandler, AZ 85225, USA
Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula Reviews
We have been so impressed with Hālau Ho'okahi I Ka Hula! If you are looking to learn true traditional Polynesian dance, this is the place to go. You will become part of an incredible family when you join! They teach not only traditional dance, but you also learn the language, culture and costume making. The instructor is professional and kind but maintains high expectations for her students, which results in quality beyond compare. We have learned so much and we love this hālau!
Apr 15, 2018 · Melesa StewartI'm going into my 3rd year with this halau. Nalani is such a great teacher. I've learned more than hula, she teaches the Hawaiian language and creates a ohana environment. This group is professional on stage and everyone is treated like family.
Apr 18, 2018 · Jonnie BrundageOur family has been a part of this group for 5 years. My daughter and son are both learning traditional Hula and Tahitian dance under the instruction of Nalani Francisco. She believes in teaching the traditional ways, exactly how she learned from her Kumu. Our kids are not only learning dance but they are also learning how to chat and sing in Hawaiian, in addition to weaving/making their own costumes in order to take pride in this beautiful culture. This Halau is all about unity and truly capturing what it means to represent Island dance here in arizona. This is what sets her and the group apart from other Halau’s. We are so grateful to have found Nalani and this Hula Ohana of ours!
Apr 14, 2018 · Jackie TavennerI danced years ago but went on a looooong hiatus. I had been watching this halau for years until I was finally able to get in gear and join. So unbelievably grateful I did. Everyone is so amazing and generous with support and kindness. Nalani radiates with so much aloha and it lights us all up.
Apr 16, 2018 · Tamara HightAuthentic, patient, knowledgable, kind: Nālani Francisco teaches the true aloha of hula. She generously shares her expertise of the Hawaiian culture, traditional and modern hula, language and costume making. This is the real deal, a bit of the Island here in Arizona.
Apr 14, 2018 · Gina Soares
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