Under the direction of Kumu Hula Mapuana Samonte-Nowak,
Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe strives to share the love of Hula and Hawaiian traditions as inspired and preserved by our Kupuna.
We do so by teaching from the heart, ensuring this knowledge carries forward to future generations.
"I ULU NO KA LALA I KE KUMU"
Halau classes are held on Sundays in Kahului. We are currently not accepting new students. If you are interested in classes, you may submit an online registration form below to be added to our waitlist.
Want to learn hula?
Classes are available to all in the Maui, Hawai’i community, from beginning to advanced dancers, keiki to kupuna. Located in Kahului, our Halau offers weekly classes in the styles of Kahiko, Auana, and Tahitian (keiki). We hope you will join us!
"I mohala no ke lehua i ke ke`ekehi `ia e ka ua."
Translation: The Lehua blossom unfolds when the rains tread it.
Explanation: People respond better to gentle words than to scoldings.
Event Requests
Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe is available for weddings, conventions, and other special events. Inquire about special occasion performances here.
Kumu Hula Mapuana Samonte-Nowak
was born and raised in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii. She was formally trained by Kumu Hula Emma Farden-Sharpe of Lahaina, Maui from the tender age of 3.
As a child, she spent much time with her grandmother, Helen Kapehe Ku’uleialoha Ching, who inspired her to perpetuate Hawaiian culture and hula. In her honor and memory she named Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe.
Kumu believes that preserving Hawaiian culture of the past and integrating modern methods of dance, ensures a living tradition of Hula.
Kumu and her family are committed to keep the Hawaiian culture alive. Her extensive Hula genealogy bring extensive tradition and knowledge for future generations to preserve and perpetuate Hawaiian Culture through halau.
Alaka`i
Rennia Cabal-Amisola
I joined halau in 2014.
My search to assimilate Hawaiian culture and my passion for dancing naturally attracted me to study Hula.
I found that hula is much more than dance -- it is a lifestyle.
I am honored to assist Kumu in teaching Hula as well Tahitian Dance.
In Halau I feel surrounded by like-minded individuals who exude Aloha and have a shared goal to preserve and perpetuate Hawaiian culture and history.
Cheryl Dang
As Alaka`i for Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe, my passion for hula is able to grow.
I began dancing hula in 2002 with Kumu Mapuana Samonte and also briefly with Kumu Keli`i Taua.
Through every challenge and inspiration that comes with growth, I aspire to share my love of hula, oli, Hawaiian culture and values in the same manner that was taught to me... with compassion and aloha.
Kaimana Nakamura
I have been with Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe for 20 years along with my daughter Kira. I assist Kumu with registration of new students and Halau communications.
Kumu gives so much more than the steps to a dance, she shares and teaches us to explore the deeper meaning of mele allowing an exploration of its history and deeper meaning. Halau enriches our lives and guides us to seek the values and teachings of Hawaiian Culture.
Hula is a way of life, a way of celebrating a culture, rich in wisdom, humbleness, and appreciation of the land and the sacred breath of Life ~ Aloha.
Contact Us
Halau Hula Malani O Kapehe
PO Box 977
Kihei, HI 96753
Tel: 808-281-4741