Hula at Kūlia Academy
E ola ka hula — let hula live.
At Kūlia Academy, our hula program connects students to Hawaiʻi’s traditions, stories, and values through dance, chant, and song. Hula builds confidence, creativity, and cultural identity while fostering discipline and teamwork.
E ola ka hula. Our hula program nurtures cultural identity, artistry, and discipline through mele (song), oli (chant), and foundations of both hula kahiko and hula ʻauana. Students learn technique, language, and protocol in a supportive environment that honors tradition and celebrates creativity.
Why Hula?
Culture & Identity: Deepen connection to Hawaiʻi through practice, language, and story.
Arts & Discipline: Build coordination, musicality, and focus.
Community: Perform together, uplift one another, and represent Kūlia with pride.
What Students Learn
Basic posture, footwork, and hand motions (kaholo, hela, ʻami, etc.)
Introductory oli (chants), mele, and meanings behind the dances
Respectful protocols for entering, practicing, and leaving the hālau space
Performance skills: staging, costume care, and audience etiquette
Beginning ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi vocabulary related to hula
Kumu Hula
Our hula program is guided by Kumu Leila Leihuluonalani Fernandez Matthews, whose life has been devoted to sharing the art and spirit of hula. Beginning her professional journey as a dancer at age 16, she quickly grew into teaching, choreographing, and leading cultural programs. Kumu Leila has performed throughout Hawaiʻi and internationally, founded hālau and cultural foundations, and continues to inspire new generations of learners with aloha, discipline, and joy.