Halau Hula O Na Pua o Hawaii Nei

- 4065 W 11th Ave #11, Eugene, OR 97402

Hula is more than just a dance; it is the language of the heart and the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people. For those of us in the Pacific Northwest who love and appreciate this beautiful culture, Halau Hula O Na Pua o Hawaii Nei in Eugene, Oregon, offers a special and authentic connection to the islands. This training center is not just a place to learn dance steps; it is a school that functions as a family, led by Kumu (master teacher) Akiko Colton. The name itself, "Hula school of beautiful flowers of Hawaii," perfectly encapsulates the essence of the halau, where each student is considered a unique and beautiful flower.

Our halau is dedicated to teaching traditional and authentic styles of Hawaiian dance. We are committed to preserving and perpetuating the rich history, legends, and stories of Hawaiian culture through hula and chant. Kumu Akiko Colton's own journey from studying Hawaiian studies in Hawaii to becoming a kumu hula in Eugene reflects a deep and personal commitment to this art form. She emphasizes that what is taught here is genuine, steering clear of common stereotypes to provide a true and respectful representation of Hawaiian tradition. We believe that hula is a powerful way to keep the culture and history of Hawaii alive, passing down knowledge from one generation to the next.

What truly sets our halau apart is the nurturing, family-like environment we've created. As one of our 'haumana' (students) shared in a review, "this Halau is truly a school that functions more like a family and nurtures its 'haumana' (students) as their own." This sentiment is a cornerstone of our community. We welcome people from all walks of life, regardless of age or background, to join our 'ohana' (family) and experience the joy and camaraderie of hula. The connection to the culture is so strong that about one-third of our dancers have direct ties to Hawaii, either through ancestry or having previously lived there, making our community a true hub for Hawaiian culture in Oregon.

Halau Hula O Na Pua o Hawaii Nei is located at 4065 W 11th Ave #11, Eugene, OR 97402, USA. This location makes our training center easily accessible for residents of Eugene and the surrounding areas. Situated just off a major thoroughfare, finding our studio is simple, whether you're traveling from downtown or other parts of the city.

Accessibility is an important consideration for us, and we are dedicated to making our space welcoming for everyone. We offer a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that individuals with mobility needs can easily attend classes and events. We strive to create an inclusive environment where the aloha spirit is felt by all. For those with a love for Hawaiian culture, our location provides a little piece of the islands right here in Oregon.

Services Offered

• Authentic Hula Classes: We offer classes for all ages, from keiki (children) to adults. Our curriculum includes instruction in both hula kahiko (ancient hula) and hula ʻauana (modern hula), ensuring a well-rounded and authentic learning experience.
• Hawaiian Cultural Education: Our training goes beyond just dance steps. We teach students oli (chants), Hawaiian language, and the rich history and stories behind each mele (song), providing a deeper connection to the culture.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to perform at community events and in our annual hoʻike (showcase). This provides a wonderful opportunity to share their skills and the aloha spirit with the broader Oregon community.
• Community and Family Building: We foster a strong sense of ʻohana' (family) among our students. We are a supportive community where students can build lasting friendships and feel a sense of belonging.

Features / Highlights

• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: We provide accessible parking to ensure our training center is welcoming and convenient for all members of our community.
• Authentic Teaching: Led by Kumu Akiko Colton, our halau is committed to teaching authentic, traditional Hawaiian hula, ensuring that students learn the art form with respect for its cultural origins.
• Family-Like Environment: Our students and their families consistently describe our halau as a "family," highlighting the nurturing and supportive atmosphere that makes learning hula a truly special experience.
• All Ages and Skill Levels: We welcome new dancers of all ages, from children as young as three to adults, and offer classes for both beginners and experienced dancers.

Contact Information

Address: 4065 W 11th Ave #11, Eugene, OR 97402, USA

Phone: (541) 653-3327

What is worth choosing?

If you are a resident of Oregon seeking an authentic and meaningful cultural experience, Halau Hula O Na Pua o Hawaii Nei is an exceptional choice. What makes our halau truly unique is our deep commitment to authenticity and community. In a world where dance is often commercialized, we stand out as a genuine training center dedicated to preserving and sharing the beautiful traditions of Hawaiian hula. We are not just a business; we are a cultural lifeline for many in the Pacific Northwest who feel a connection to the islands.

The emphasis on 'ohana' is a powerful reason to choose us. The reviews from our community members speak volumes about the warmth and acceptance you'll find here. It's an environment where "haumana' (students) are nurtured as their own," which is invaluable for both children and adults. This supportive atmosphere is what allows students to truly thrive and grow, not only as dancers but as individuals.

Furthermore, our focus on teaching the history and cultural significance behind the movements sets us apart. We believe that to truly dance the hula, you must understand the stories and chants that accompany it. This holistic approach provides a more profound and rewarding experience than simply learning choreography. It connects students to a lineage of knowledge and art that has been passed down through generations. Our commitment to teaching the ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), chants, and the history of hula makes us a true cultural training center, not just a dance studio.

For families, our halau offers a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about a different culture in a respectful and engaging way. The discipline and grace that come with hula are wonderful life skills, and the friendships formed here often last a lifetime. Our inclusive approach, including a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensures that our doors are open to everyone who wishes to learn. Choosing Halau Hula O Na Pua o Hawaii Nei means choosing an experience that will enrich your life, connect you to a vibrant community, and give you a genuine understanding of a treasured art form.

Halau Hula O Na Pua o Hawaii Nei

4065 W 11th Ave #11, Eugene, OR 97402, USA