Paoakalani Hula School
Our
Story
HĀLAU NAME
Welcome to Paoakalani Hula Hālau, where the essence of grace and presence is woven into the fabric of our dance. The name "Paoakalani," bestowed upon Kumu Hula Kalani P. Hiapo by his tūtū, translates to "The Royal Perfume." This moniker, resonant with the fragrance of Hawaii's exquisite flowers, was embraced by Queen Liliʻuokalani herself. She named her garden, a haven adorned with the rich scents of the islands' beautiful blooms, Paoakalani—an estate where the queen meticulously translated Hawaii's legends into English.
Inspired by the legacy of our queen and deeply connected to our esteemed Kumu Hula, Paoakalani Hula Hālau embodies the perfume of grace and presence. Our haumāna (students) carry this fragrance with them, infusing our teachings and performances with a unique blend of poise and honor. Join us on a journey that celebrates the spirit of Hawaii, as we dance and share the timeless tales of our islands with the world.
HĀLAU LOGO
The Hālau Logo, masterfully crafted by Kumu Kalani Hiapo, serves as a powerful emblem that encapsulates the enduring growth and preservation of hula—a cultural legacy that remains evergreen.
At the heart of this emblematic image, a woman of wisdom stands as the central figure. She is poised, drumming the ipu heke with grace and purpose, and her voice carries the timeless melodies of our ancestors as the sun begins its ascent. She is adorned in the vibrant colors of Laka, the revered goddess of hula, representing the profound connection between our art and its divine roots.
This visionary woman stands upon a symbolic summit, an aspirational peak that reflects our unwavering commitment to bringing joy to our kupuna, our revered ancestors. The choice of a woman as the central figure acknowledges the sacred role of women as the givers of life, mirroring the essence of hula, which is itself a vibrant and life-giving force.
May this Hālau Logo stand as a testament to the rich tapestry of our hula heritage—a legacy that we, the torchbearers of tradition, strive to preserve, nurture, and pass on to future generations. In its design, we find the promise that our hula legacy shall indeed live on, flourishing like the rising sun, for all time to come.
ʻOhe Kapala Pattern
The Hālau ʻOhe Kapala pattern, thoughtfully crafted by Kamalei Krug, is an intricate tapestry that narrates the captivating tale of the forest's singing Kāhuli snails. These small creatures hold profound symbolism within the world of hula, and their name, "Kāhuli," finds significance in the enchanting sound they produce when the wind whispers through the trees. This melodious harmony, akin to a Kumu Hula and their dancers, resonates as a tribute to the heart of hula itself.
Within this exquisite design, three rows of intricate shell patterns gracefully intertwine, each row bearing a profound connection to the three esteemed Kumu Hula who have enriched the creator with invaluable knowledge. The initial row is an homage to the first Kumu, Chincky Mahoe, who instilled the core values of discipline and the paramount importance of mastering technique and skill as a dancer. The second row pays tribute to Uncle George Naope, imparting the enduring lesson of dedication and the sacred duty to perpetuate our hula traditions. Lastly, the third row honors Kumu Hula Kimo Alama Keaualana, who has illuminated the significance of hula lineage, the unshakable foundation of ancient hula, and the profound art of meaningful teaching.
In essence, the Hālau ʻOhe Kapala pattern is far more than an artistic creation; it is a living embodiment of ancestral guidance, wisdom, and the legacy passed down through the generations. It celebrates the essence of hula in its many facets, encapsulating the melodious symphony that connects the forest, the Kāhuli snails, and the profound teachings of the Kumu Hula.