ʻAha Kuauli 2026
Hula ʻAuana Workshop: Explore the grace and storytelling of hula ʻauana with Kumu Kahelelani Alohikea-Smith of Hālau Kaʻeaikahelelani. This workshop will share hula rooted in the mele, places, and stories of Hawaiʻi Island while focusing on movement, expression, and cultural connection.
Learn the traditional art of ʻumeke (ipu) making and explore the cultural significance of these vessels in Hawaiʻi with cultural practitioner Kalim Smith. Drawing from knowledge passed through both his Native American and Hawaiian families, Kalim brings years of experience growing, preparing, and crafting ipu. Participants will gain insight into the journey of the ipu—from cultivation to creation—while learning the traditional process of transforming it into an ʻumeke and the kuleana of carrying this ʻike forward.
Explore the art of oli and haku mele with renowned cultural practitioner Kaumakaiwa Kanakaʻole. Rooted in generations of ʻike Hawaiʻi and the Kanakaʻole family legacy, Kaumakaiwa brings a lifetime of experience as a kumu hula, chanter, composer, artist, and educator. Participants will explore Hawaiian chant and composition while learning how words, voice, place, storytelling, and ʻike Hawaiʻi come together. Through shared ʻike and creative practice, this workshop encourages participants to discover and strengthen their own cultural voice while carrying these traditions forward.