Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a

Aloha and welcome to Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a, a truly special cultural hub nestled right here in Beaverton, Oregon! If you’ve ever felt drawn to the grace of hula, the vibrant energy of Polynesian dance, or simply longed for a deeper connection to Hawaiian culture and a welcoming community, this is the place for you. More than just a dance school, Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a, whose name beautifully translates to "school of hula where everyone is family," embodies the spirit of 'ohana (family) in every class, performance, and interaction. Founded on a deep passion for Hawaiian traditions, this hālau (school) offers an authentic and enriching experience, inviting individuals of all ages and skill levels to learn, grow, and embrace the aloha spirit.

Under the dedicated guidance of Kumu Lisa Chang, Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a has flourished since its informal beginnings in 1998 with just five students in her Portland home. Today, it boasts over 100 students ranging from 3 to over 90 years old, attending 13 classes weekly, a testament to the strong community and exceptional instruction provided. Kumu Lisa, with over 30 years of study and instruction, has created a truly wonderful and safe place to learn and be challenged. Students consistently rave about the supportive and encouraging environment, often referring to their fellow dancers as "hula sisters" and emphasizing the genuine love and support shared within the community. Whether it's the professional and elegant performances that "take your event to the next level" or the heartwarming camaraderie experienced in weekly classes, Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a clearly delivers on its promise of an authentic and fulfilling cultural experience, deeply rooted in the preservation of Hawaiian language, song, and dance.

Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a is conveniently located at 12570 SW Farmington Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005, USA. This accessible address in Beaverton makes it a central and easy-to-reach destination for individuals and families across the Portland metropolitan area and surrounding communities in Oregon. Farmington Road is a well-trafficked thoroughfare, ensuring straightforward navigation whether you are driving from Tigard, Hillsboro, Portland, or other nearby towns. For those utilizing public transportation, the studio is situated within a reasonable distance of TriMet bus stops, offering practical options for commuting without a personal vehicle. Ample parking facilities are available, ensuring that attending classes or events is a stress-free experience for all visitors. This strategic location reinforces the hālau's mission to be an inclusive and accessible hub for Hawaiian culture and dance for the diverse population of Oregon.

Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a offers a comprehensive array of services that extend beyond traditional dance instruction, embracing the full spectrum of Hawaiian and Polynesian cultural experiences. Their programs are designed for all ages and skill levels, ensuring that everyone can find their place within the 'ohana.

Services Offered:

• Hula Dance Instruction (Ancient & Modern): Classes in both Hula Kahiko (ancient hula, accompanied by chant and traditional instruments) and Hula 'Auana (modern hula, accompanied by song and musical instruments like 'ukulele and guitar).
• Tahitian Dance Instruction: Energetic classes focusing on rapid hip movements and drumming, providing a great workout and cultural insight.
• Tahitian Drumming Ensemble: Opportunities to learn traditional Tahitian drumming, adding another layer to the Polynesian cultural experience.
• Keiki (Children's) Hula Classes: Specialized classes for young dancers starting at age 3, fostering an early love for Hawaiian culture and movement.
• Adult Hula Classes: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced classes for adults of all experience levels, allowing for continuous growth and skill refinement.
• Kupuna (Seniors 55+) Hula Classes: Tailored programs for older adults, promoting gentle movement, social connection, and cultural engagement.
• Private Lessons: Personalized one-on-one instruction for specific learning goals, wedding dances, or accelerated progress. Available both in-person and online.
• Polynesian Entertainment for Events: Professional and elegant dancers available for various events, including lu`aus, weddings, birthdays, corporate functions, school functions, and community gatherings. Packages can be customized from a single dancer to groups of 50 or more, complete with authentic costuming and traditional music.
• Audience Participation: Entertainment packages often include basic hula or Tahitian dance instruction for guests, enhancing the interactive experience.
• Lei Greeters: Option to provide lei greeters for Hawaiian-themed events, adding an authentic touch.
• Live Musical Accompaniment: Available upon request for performances, providing an even richer cultural experience.
• Hulagrams: A short and sweet way to send aloha, perfect for special occasions or just to brighten someone's day.
• Cultural Workshops & Educational Programs: Engaging and interactive programs about Hawaiian language, songs, hand motions, and cultural elements, suitable for schools, libraries, and community groups.
• Online Classes: Many classes are available online, extending the reach of the hālau to students across the U.S. and globally, ensuring that the aloha spirit can be shared regardless of location.

What truly sets Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a apart and makes it a cherished local institution in Oregon are its unique features and the profound impact it has on its students and community. These highlights resonate deeply with those seeking an authentic and nurturing cultural experience.

Features / Highlights:

• Authentic Hawaiian Cultural Immersion: The hālau goes beyond just teaching dance steps; it provides a comprehensive cultural experience, including Hawaiian language, songs, chants, history, and the deep meaning behind each movement.
• Strong Sense of 'Ohana (Family): Living up to its name, the studio cultivates an incredibly welcoming, supportive, and close-knit community where students genuinely embrace and uplift one another, creating lasting friendships and a true sense of belonging.
• Expert and Passionate Kumu (Teacher): Kumu Lisa Chang is highly respected for her extensive knowledge, passion, and patient teaching style. Her over 30 years of experience and dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture shine through in every class.
• Inclusive for All Ages and Levels: From children as young as three to kūpuna (seniors) over 90, and from absolute beginners to advanced dancers, everyone is welcomed and challenged at their appropriate level.
• Diverse Dance Repertoire: Students have the opportunity to learn both Hula Kahiko (ancient) and Hula 'Auana (modern), as well as Tahitian dance and drumming, offering a rich and varied dance education.
• Professional Performance Troupe: The hālau provides experienced and graceful dancers for public and private events, offering authentic Polynesian entertainment that elevates any occasion with beautiful costumes and traditional music.
• Holistic Growth: Beyond dance skills, students develop confidence, discipline, musicality, and a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage, enriching their lives in numerous ways.
• Flexible Learning Options: With both in-person classes at their Beaverton studio and a robust online program, the hālau makes it possible for students near and far to connect with Hawaiian culture.
• Community Engagement: Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a actively participates in and offers programs for local libraries, schools, community festivals, and private events, sharing the aloha spirit widely across Oregon and beyond.

Contact Information:

Address: 12570 SW Farmington Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005, USA

Phone: (971) 227-8354

Mobile Phone: +1 971-227-8354

For locals throughout Oregon, especially those in Beaverton and the greater Portland metropolitan area, Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a offers a truly unique and enriching opportunity. If you've ever yearned for a deeper connection to Hawaiian culture, sought a joyful and expressive form of movement, or simply desired to be part of a warm and supportive community, this hālau is an ideal choice. It’s more than just a dance studio; it's a vibrant family where the traditions of Hawai'i are lovingly preserved and shared. Kumu Lisa's expertise and the genuine aloha spirit that permeates every aspect of the hālau ensure that every student, from keiki to kūpuna, finds a welcoming space to learn, grow, and express themselves. Whether you wish to become a graceful performer, learn about Hawaiian language and history, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of fellow hula enthusiasts, Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a is a cultural gem that will bring joy, connection, and a touch of the islands to your life right here in Oregon.

Hula Hālau ‘Ohana Holo‘oko‘a

12570 SW Farmington Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005, USA