Classes

Hula is more than just dance, it is an expression of storytelling told through gestures of the eyes, hands, arms, hips, legs, feet, body, mind, and heart accompanied by music, drums, and implements. Each dancer adds their own mana (energy, power) to their performance, making each dance their own.

Performance Team

Is for the serious dancer looking to show-off their skills in public outlets or in a competitive nature. It is open for both beginner and advanced dancers that are confident in their perspective classes. You must be able to demonstrate a seamless rendering of the performance as it relates to the team, or as a soloist as determned by the Director. This team relies on dedication ~ it can be rigorous, and will most assuredly have extended classes and/or extended rehearsals ~ it can also be rewarding , offering camaraderie, encouragement, and compassion. It is important to always be positive for the success of the team, as it is also a key component for the integrity of the hui.

Advanced Hula

Is for the more experienced dancer (assessment will be determined after the beginner hula class). Here you will learn more challenging choreography, including 'auana (modern), kahiko (Ancient style), mele (songs), and oli (chants) - all while improving your footwork, arm and hand movement and placement. Haumana will learn, share, work, and enjoy the different skills each haumana brings to the hui. You will work towards harmony with your hula sisters - offering respect, encouragement, and aloha.

Class Time, Night & Price Breakdown

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm ~ Monday Night

Month-to-Month=$65.00/month

2 Months in advanced=$60.00/month

3 Months in advanced=$55.00/month

Drop-in Class=$25.00/hr

*Private Class=$45.00/hr (pre-arranged)

6:45 pm - 8:00 pm ~ Wednesday Night

Month-to-Month=$60.00/month

Sign-up through City of San Leandro Recreation Department

*NOTE: Most months will be four weeks. Some months will have five weeks and some will have three - they will balance out over the year, so there will not be any pro-rated months.

Attire

Hula is danced with bare feet ~ please remove your shoes before entering the studio. Beginner haumana will wear a basic pareau and a loose t-shirt or tank top. Advanced haumana will wear a basic pa'u and a loose t-shirt or tank top. If you do not have a pareau or pa'u one can be purchased online or borrowed through the Director. The purpose of proper attire is to be able to see movement.

Implements

Add style and rhythm to your chants and dances. Some will be made in workshops that I Ka Nani a'o Aloha will host, or attend, and we encourage you to participte to learn new experiences, opportunities, and enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the culture. Some implements will need to be purchased either online or from haumana that may visit Hawai'i or from a trip you take yourself.

Ohana

Means "family" and the Polynesian culture is big on sharing and support ~ members of I Ka Nani a'o Aloha are welcome to participate in any and all activities the hui announces or is a supporter of from shopping to eating and everything in between.

Beginner Hula

Is for everyone that has not had any previous hula experience, has taken a break from hula, or is just starting with I Ka Nani a'o Aloha. This is a low impact class with no pressure. We will take our time in teaching you dance and movement adding a little each week, and reviewing from the previous week. You will learn basic footwork and hand and arm positions. We are here to have fun, learn, and share the aloha spirit. You may recognize some of the more popular music and you will learn the kaona (hidden meaning) behind the words. Soon you will be able to "talk Story" with your body and hands.