KAILUA CLASSES

Na Puakea O Koʻolaupoko is a school of Hula. In Hawaiian, we are called a Hālau Hula.  Our Kumu Kea is Pattye Kealohalani Wright.  She founded Na Puakea O Koʻolaupoko in 1973.  We are located in Kailua on the Island of Oʻahu.  Known as the "Windward Side," we are nestled beneath the rim of the Koʻolau mountains, just 30 minutes from Waikīkī and Honolulu.

 

Kumu Kea is a traditional Kumu Hula.  This means she carries a hula lineage which is passed on to her students.  Her kahiko (traditional style dance) teacher was Aunty Lani Kalama, also of Kailua.  Aunty Lani's teacher was the reknowned Lokalia Montgomery known as the "teacher of teachers."  Her ʻauana (modern style dance) teacher was Bella Richards of Kailua, Oʻahu.  Aunty Bella came from the Hilo tradition of ʻai haʻa style dancing, characterized by a very deep bend of the knees.

 

Our instruction is very specific and detailed.  If you join us and find a difference from the style you have learned before, know that hula may be similar and different at the same time.  Unique steps and movements are styles and not matters of right and wrong in the hula world.   Always remember that all knowledge is not held in any one Hālau or Hula Tradition.

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"Our purpose is to share the true essence of the Hawaiian culture as expressed in the hula. In so doing, I share the tradition and style that has been given to me during my many years of training with Kekauilani Kalama as I was being prepared to receive the 'Uniki Rites as Kumu Hula. It is my intention to share the history, culture and poetry embodied in the song or chant presented so as to enlighten and educate devotees of the hula where ever they may reside." 

~ Kumu Kea