Hālau

A Hālau is a Hawaiian cultural school or community center dedicated to teaching and practicing traditional arts such as hula, chant, and music. It functions as a gathering place where students, called haumāna, learn these arts under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor, known as a kumu. More than just an educational space, a Hālau serves as a cultural and spiritual hub, fostering connection to Hawaiian history, values, and community. It emphasizes respect, discipline, and the preservation of Hawaiian heritage through performance, storytelling, and cultural practices.