Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company

- 970 N Colony Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492

Welcome to Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company, Connecticut’s premier source for authentic Polynesian dance and entertainment, located in Wallingford. Founded in 2004 by Artistic Director Kekai Colello, who brings over four decades of Polynesian dance experience, the company is more than just a dance studio. It is a thriving multicultural group that comes together as an extended 'ohana (family) to learn the art and deeper meaning of dances from the South Pacific. While the company offers formal dance instruction, it is also a sought-after performance troupe that has captivated audiences across Connecticut and into neighboring states like Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island. From schools and international fairs to private parties and corporate events, Kaiholunuie brings the spirit of Aloha to every stage.

The core mission of Kaiholunuie is to preserve and perpetuate the cultural heritage and history of the people of the South Pacific. This goes beyond just teaching steps; it’s about instilling a deeper understanding of Polynesian culture, artwork, regalia, and history. Students and performers alike are part of a mission to educate and inform youth through the arts. The company's commitment to authenticity is a key differentiator, with many of its artists being educators and professionals who share a deep desire to pass on their knowledge. They strive to be inclusive to all who seek a deeper understanding of Polynesian culture, making it a welcoming place for everyone, regardless of their background. The dance company's performances are often hailed as not just shows, but educational and immersive experiences, providing audiences with an appreciation for the stories and traditions behind the movements.

Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company is based in Wallingford, Connecticut, with a studio location at 970 N Colony Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492, USA. This well-established address provides a central and convenient location for dancers and clients throughout the Connecticut region. The accessibility of the studio is a point of consideration, as it is situated in an area that is easy to navigate for visitors.

The company is dedicated to ensuring a welcoming environment for all individuals. A notable feature that highlights this commitment is the wheelchair-accessible car park. This thoughtful provision makes it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to park their vehicles safely and with ease before entering the facility. The presence of accessible parking demonstrates a proactive approach to inclusivity, ensuring that the studio and its activities are open to a broader community. While no additional information on other accessibility features is available in the provided data, this key feature underscores the company’s dedication to making their space as accommodating as possible for all who wish to learn or engage with the culture.

Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company offers a wide array of services that extend beyond traditional dance classes. The company provides a comprehensive approach to sharing Polynesian culture with the community. Their services include:

• Arts Instruction / Lessons: Teaching various dance styles from the South Pacific.
• Community Arts: Engaging in public art projects and community events.
• Performance / Concert / Reading: Providing authentic Polynesian entertainment for various occasions.
• Workshops / Demonstrations / Master Class: Offering educational sessions on dance, culture, and history.

As a performance company, their entertainment services are extensive and include:

• Polynesian dance performances for events of all sizes.
• Audience participation and cultural education as part of the show.
• Educational workshops for schools, community groups, and private parties.

Their focus on education and performance, rather than just recreational classes, makes them a unique resource in the Connecticut region.

Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company stands out in the Connecticut cultural scene due to several key features and highlights that define its identity and mission.

• Authenticity and Expertise: The company is led by an artistic director with over 45 years of Polynesian dance experience. This deep knowledge ensures the authenticity of the dances and cultural teachings, which is a key factor for clients seeking a genuine experience.
• Educational Focus: Beyond the performances, the company is dedicated to education. They work with schools and community groups to provide workshops that teach about Polynesian history, culture, and regalia.
• Versatile Performance Troupe: As a performing group, Kaiholunuie is available for a wide range of events, from small, private parties to large-scale public events and corporate functions. This versatility makes them a valuable resource for event planners throughout New England.
• Community and 'Ohana: The company fosters a strong sense of family ('ohana) among its members, creating a supportive and collaborative environment that is "good for kids" and adults alike.
• Inclusivity: The company prides itself on being a multicultural group that is inclusive to all who wish to learn about Polynesian culture and share in the Aloha spirit.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: This practical feature enhances the studio’s accessibility, making it a convenient choice for all visitors.

For inquiries about booking a performance or general information, you can contact Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company using the following details:

Address: 970 N Colony Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492, USA

Phone: (203) 927-1239

When considering a cultural experience or dance-related service in Connecticut, Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company offers a unique and compelling value that makes it an exceptional choice. The most significant reason to choose this company is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and cultural preservation. In a world where many cultural performances may be superficial, Kaiholunuie is led by a director with a profound, decades-long connection to Polynesian dance. This expertise ensures that every class and performance is not only beautiful but also deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the South Pacific. For families in Connecticut, this provides a rare and valuable opportunity to learn from true experts and gain a genuine appreciation for a different culture.

Beyond the authenticity, the company's dual focus on education and performance is highly commendable. Whether you are looking to book a show that will "transport" your guests to the islands or seeking a place for your child to learn about a new culture, Kaiholunuie delivers. They are not simply dancers; they are cultural ambassadors who work to educate their audiences and students. The company's dedication to creating a sense of 'ohana, or family, among its members is also a powerful reason to choose them. This supportive and inclusive community environment is particularly beneficial for children, as it fosters not only a love for dance but also a strong sense of belonging. The practicality of a wheelchair-accessible car park further demonstrates the company's commitment to serving a diverse audience. Ultimately, Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company is worth choosing because it offers a truly meaningful experience, blending high-quality entertainment and education with a heartfelt mission to share the Aloha spirit.

Kaiholunuie Polynesian Dance Company

970 N Colony Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492, USA