ABOUT THE HÂLAU

Hâlau Hula `O Walea is the extension of the IWALEA Dance Company.  It is under the ownership and artistic direction of Kumu Hula Joy Walea Corpuz, who has been dancing hula for 21 years.  She heads the Teaching Staff of two Alaka`i  (Assistant Teachers) and four Kôkua (Helpers), all of whom are former Miss Aloha Hula representatives of the hâlau. 

The haumana (students) have a great history of travelling across the world, performing and competing in places such as Austria, Mainland United States (such as San Francisco and San Jose), and of course, the Hawaiian Islands.  In fact, they have represented Canada on numerous occasions, coming from the only hâlau in the country that ever enters hula competitions on Hawaiian soil.  Such competitions include:

v             Queen Liliuokalani Keiki Hula Competition (Oahu)

v             King Kamehameha Hula Competition (Oahu)

v             Ka Hula Le`a Hula Competition (Hawai`i)

The hâlau consists of approximately seventy `ôlapa (dancers), both male and female, ranging in age from three to fifty-five years, and from beginners to experts (see Lessons for more information).  They learn a variety of Polynesian Dances, including:

v             Hula `Auana and Hula Kahiko from Hawai`i

v             Maori Action Songs, Poi Balls (Short and Long) and Titi Sticks from Aotearoa (New Zealand)

v             Aparima, Otea and Ahupurotu from Tahiti

Not only do the haumana learn skills such as language and co-ordination, but they also develop a sense of discipline and belonging.

For professional and traditional Polynesian entertainment, the hâlau’s elite set of dancers is available for bookings for any occasion (Weddings, Birthday Parties, Corporate Functions or Conferences, etc.).  Please see Performances for more information.