Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea

For those in California seeking to connect with the rich, vibrant heritage of the Hawaiian Islands, Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea in Monterey Park offers an authentic and deeply welcoming experience. More than just a dance studio, this hālau (school) is a dedicated cultural center committed to the perpetuation of Native Hawaiian culture through the art of hula, language, music, and traditional crafts. It's a place where the spirit of Aloha truly thrives, creating a sense of family and belonging for all who enter its doors.

Founded by Kumu Hula Nani Aiu-Quezada, Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea carries a profound lineage and a heartfelt mission. Kumu Nani’s journey began at a young age, immersed in hula despite her Okinawan heritage, a choice made by her mother who deeply loved all things Hawaiian. Her rigorous training under respected Kumu Hula, including Uncle Kunewa Mook and Aunty Mae Kamāmalu Klein, instilled in her not only technical mastery but also the deep understanding of moʻolelo (history) and huna noʻeau (hidden wisdom) of traditional kahiko (ancient hula). This rich background ensures that students at Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea receive an education that is both authentic and profound, guided by principles of ha'ahaʻa (humility), hōʻihi (respect), manawaleʻa (generosity), kaulike (equality/justice), and pākiko (self-control).

The positive impact of Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea on its students and community is consistently highlighted by reviews. One grateful participant shared, "Visit this wonderful place to learn about Hawaiian culture, dance, music, and community. They keep the Hawaiian culture teachings alive. It has been such a positive experience joining the group and being welcomed in as family." This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of the hālau: a place of learning that extends beyond mere steps to embrace the entire cultural ecosystem of Hawaiʻi, fostering a strong sense of ohana (family) among its members.

Another review reinforces this, stating, "Hālau Hula Moani’a’ala Anuhea is an amazing hālau preserving Native Hawaiian culture through dance, language, music, and craft making. Whether you’re Kanaka or just have ties to and an appreciation for Hawai’i, this is a great community to join." This inclusivity is a cornerstone of the hālau's philosophy, welcoming both those of Hawaiian ancestry (Kanaka) and anyone with a genuine appreciation for the culture. This openness creates a diverse and harmonious learning environment where cultural exchange and understanding flourish.

Beyond the formal instruction, the hālau regularly participates in community events, bringing the beauty and spirit of Hawaiian culture to a wider audience across California. These performances offer students invaluable opportunities to share their learning and connect with others, reinforcing the hālau's role as a vital cultural ambassador. Whether it's a local festival, a community gathering, or a more formal presentation, the students of Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea embody the aloha spirit, captivating audiences with their grace and passion.

Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea is more than just a place to learn dance; it's a living, breathing connection to the heart of Hawaiʻi, right here in Southern California. It offers a unique opportunity for Californians to engage deeply with a rich indigenous culture, learn a beautiful art form, and become part of a supportive, extended family.

Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea is conveniently located at 1975 Potrero Grande Dr Unit C, Monterey Park, CA 91755, USA. This location in Monterey Park places it within the greater Los Angeles County area, making it highly accessible for residents across Southern California. Monterey Park is well-connected by major roadways, ensuring a straightforward commute for those traveling by car from neighboring cities and communities. While specific public transportation routes serving the immediate vicinity would require checking local schedules, Monterey Park generally offers a range of public transport options, contributing to the hālau's accessibility. Ample parking in the commercial complex or nearby is typically available, making attendance for classes and events convenient for students and their families. This central and accessible location allows Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea to serve as a vital cultural hub for the diverse Californian population.

• Instruction in both Kahiko (ancient hula) and ʻAuana (modern hula) styles.
• Keiki classes for young dancers (ages 3-7) focusing on beginning steps, games, songs, Hawaiian stories, crafts, and music.
• Kaikamāhine classes for young dancers (ages 8+) with beginning to intermediate knowledge, focusing on hula skill development and cultural knowledge.
• Nā ʻŌpio classes for intermediate to advanced dancers (ages 13+), advancing foundational hula skills, history, and mythos.
• Wāhine classes for advanced dancers (ages 13+), focusing on hula comprehension, refinement of skills, and understanding of kaʻao (myth) and moʻolelo (history).
• Mākua classes for intermediate learners of all ages, focusing on maintaining and expanding knowledge of Hawaiian culture, including dance, ʻōlelo (language), and kaʻao.
• Hula Lite, an introductory class for all levels and ages, focusing on basic steps, chant, and the enjoyment of learning Hawaiian culture.
• Tahitian dance classes, expanding Polynesian dance offerings.
• Teachings in Hawaiian language and chant (oli).
• Instruction in traditional Hawaiian music and craft making.
• Opportunities for students to participate in community performances and cultural events.

• Authentic perpetuation of Native Hawaiian culture through dance, language, music, and crafts.
• Led by Kumu Hula Nani Aiu-Quezada, who has a deep lineage and extensive training in traditional and modern hula.
• A profoundly welcoming atmosphere where students are "welcomed in as family" (ohana).
• Inclusivity that embraces both Kanaka (Native Hawaiian) individuals and those with an appreciation for Hawaiian culture.
• Focus on building poise, confidence, and self-esteem through artistic and cultural growth.
• Comprehensive curriculum covering a wide range of hula styles and cultural elements.
• Provides a "safe space" for learning and cultural immersion.
• Opportunities to perform in community events, showcasing learned skills and sharing culture.
• Emphasizes core Hawaiian virtues such as humility, respect, generosity, equality, and self-control.
• A living connection to Hawaiian traditions and values, right in Southern California.

Address: 1975 Potrero Grande Dr Unit C, Monterey Park, CA 91755, USA

Phone: (626) 288-3964

Mobile Phone: +1 626-288-3964

For inquiries about classes or to join the hālau, visiting their official website (hulamoani.com) and utilizing their contact or "Join us!" form for open enrollment information is highly recommended.

For residents across California, particularly those in the greater Los Angeles area, Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea is an exceptionally suitable and enriching cultural center. Its dedication to the authentic perpetuation of Native Hawaiian culture offers a unique educational and community experience that is hard to find on the mainland.

The strong sense of family and belonging, as described by satisfied community members who feel "welcomed in as family," is a powerful draw. This supportive environment is crucial for both newcomers exploring a new cultural art form and for those of Hawaiian descent seeking to connect with their heritage. The inclusivity, welcoming both Kanaka individuals and those who simply "have ties to and an appreciation for Hawai’i," ensures that the hālau is a diverse and harmonious space for cultural exchange.

Under the guidance of Kumu Hula Nani Aiu-Quezada, students receive not only dance instruction but also a deep immersion in Hawaiian language, music, crafts, history, and mythos. This comprehensive approach to cultural education goes far beyond typical dance lessons, providing a holistic understanding and appreciation for the Hawaiian way of life. The wide range of classes, from "Keiki" (children) to "Wāhine" (women) and "Mākua" (all ages), ensures that there is a place for every age and skill level to learn and grow.

Moreover, the hālau's active participation in community events allows students to share their learning and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of California. These performance opportunities foster confidence and provide invaluable experiences. In a diverse state like California, having a resource like Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea ensures that the beautiful traditions of Hawaiʻi are not only preserved but also shared and celebrated, making it an invaluable cultural gem for locals seeking to learn, connect, and thrive.

Hālau Hula Moaniʻaʻala Anuhea

1975 Potrero Grande Dr Unit C, Monterey Park, CA 91755, USA