Organization

Halau 'o Keikiali'i (formerly Halau Aloha Pumehana 'o Polynesia) is a traditional Hawaiian Cultural Group based in the Bay Area. Since 1994, their goal has been to educate the general public about the Hawaiian people, the traditional customs, values and protocols. Besides having regularly scheduled classes, they strive to help perpetuate the rich culture of the Hawaiian people through educational workshops, performances and other cultural events.

Their primary focus is hula kahiko (ancient dance), which includes oli (chant), mele (traditional songs), himeni (modern songs), nā mea hula (arts, crafts, implements), lole hula (hula attire), 'ōlelo (language), and mo'olelo (stories). Their group comprises men and women, young and old, ranging from 5 to 75 years of age.

Halau 'o Keikiali'i holds theatre productions highlighting hula in its many aspects. Following tradition, they share what they learn with different communities so that others, too, can benefit from a better understanding and appreciation of the old ways of Hawai'i. It is within the stories told in the mele (songs), with their morals and values, that people can truly be enriched in their personal lives, while all benefit from the lessons taught.