Halau (hula schools)

Halau are traditional hula schools in Hawaii where students learn the art of hula, a significant cultural dance form. These schools, often led by a kumu hula (hula master), emphasize not only the dance but also the spiritual, historical, and cultural aspects of Hawaiian traditions. Halau serve as community spaces where participants cultivate their skills in music, storytelling, and performance while honoring Hawaiian values and ancestry. Typically, training in a halau includes learning chants (oli), songs (mele), and specific dance movements, fostering a deep connection to Hawaiian heritage.