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Mele 'Ailana - The Music of The Islands event cover image

Mele 'Ailana - The Music of The Islands

Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Hula Kahiko is the ancient style of Hawaiian hula, rooted in traditional chants, stories, and cultural practices passed down through generations. Accompanied by rhythmic percussion instruments and powerful chanting, this expressive dance preserves the history, legends, and spiritual traditions of Hawaiʻi.

1. Hanau 'O Kekauluohi
From the collection of Kumu Hula Robert Cazimero. Translation by Manu Boyd. Composer unknown. This is a mele inoa/name chant for King Lunalilo (b. January 31, 1835), son of High Chief Kana'ina and High Chiefess Miriam 'Auhea Kekāuluohi. She was the daughter of Kaheiheimālie (sister of Ka'ahumanu) and Kalaimamahu (half-brother of Kamehameha I). Lightning and thunder allude to Lunalilo's mana, high rank, royal ancestry and right to rule.
Advanced Ho'opa'a
All Classes
Beginner Ho'opa'a
2. Maika'i Kaua'i Hemolele I Ka Malie
A loving tribute to Kauaʻi, celebrating the island's tranquil beauty, sacred landscapes, and cherished places from Waiʻaleʻale to Hanalei, Līhuʻe, and Waimea.
Advanced Ho'opa'a
Hālau
3. Kawika
This mele inoa for King David Kalākaua (1836-1891) relates how he appealed to England and France for financial aid for Hawaiʻi. He was refused. The people of Hawaiʻi are called flowers. Caesar Kapaʻakea, a great grandson of Chief Kameʻeiamoku was the father of King Kalākaua and High Chiefess, Analea Keohokalole, a counselor to King Kamehameha III, was his mother. Kalākaua ruled from 1874-1891. The sign of the Kalākaua dynasty was the noonday sun symbolized by a flaming torch at midday.
Advanced Ho'opa'a
Beginner Ho'opa'a
Keiki Advanced
4. Liliu E
A traditional Hawaiian mele of praise dedicated to Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaiʻi. It is sometimes called “The Queen's Hula.” The chant was composed by the noted kumu hula Antone (Akoni) Kaoʻo and later set to music by John Kaulia as an expression of loyalty, affection, and admiration for the queen.
Advanced Ho'opa'a
Beginner Ho'opa'a

Hula ʻAuana is the modern form of Hawaiian hula that developed in the 20th century. Performed to melodic songs accompanied by instruments such as the ʻukulele and guitar, it features graceful movements that tell stories of love, nature, places, and Hawaiian culture in a contemporary style.

1. Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Made famous by by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole is a gentle, hopeful reflection on dreaming of a better world while appreciating the beauty, peace, and simple blessings that surround us every day.
Special Guests
The Band
2. Ko Ma'i Ho'eu'eu
A lively and playful mele honoring King Kalākaua, celebrating vitality, fertility, and the joyful continuation of the Hawaiian people.
The Band
3. Na Moku Eha
This Mele describes the beautiful flowers and mountains of The Four Islands - Hawai'i, Maui, O'ahu and Kaua'i
The Band
4. In Your Hawaiian Way
A romantic love song that celebrates the warmth, beauty, and tenderness of sharing an intimate moment with someone special beneath the Hawaiian moon and trade winds.
Hula Basics & Workshops
The Band
5. Pua 'A'ali'i
A mele comparing an everlasting love to the the resilient ʻāʻaliʻi flower, using it as a symbol of strength, perseverance, and the ability to thrive through life's changing winds.
Hālau
The Band
6. Mele Ailana
A joyful celebration of the sounds of the islands from the singing birds, to the waterfalls, lightning and thunder and waves crashing over the rocks on the beaches.
The Band

Siva Samoa is the traditional dance of Samoa, known for its elegant hand gestures, fluid movements, and storytelling. Dancers use graceful motions to express cultural values, daily life, and island traditions, creating a beautiful connection between music, movement, and Samoan heritage.

1. Sasa
A fun song involving a simple drum beat and movements of the hands.
Keiki Advanced
Tahitian Drum Orchestra
2. Si Fe'e Si Fe'e
A playful song about the generous octopus that offers the mouse a ride to shore - only to be betrayed when the mouse poops on his head and doesn't even say thank you!
Keiki Advanced
The Band
3. Mo'omo'oga
A heartfelt Samoan song that reflects on cherished memories, enduring love, and the hopes we hold close for those who have departed.
Hālau
The Band

ʻOri Tahiti is the traditional dance of Tahiti, celebrated for its energetic rhythms, powerful drum accompaniment, and dynamic hip movements. Rich in cultural meaning and artistry, ʻOri Tahiti showcases the stories, spirit, and vibrant traditions of the people of French Polynesia.

1. Ote'a Tiraha
A deeply personal offering rooted in humility and reverence, honoring the spiritual and ancestral heart of 'Ori Tahiti.
Lead Instructor
2. 'O Urataetae Iti E
A contemporary piece honoring Urataetae, goddess of feminine energy and grace.
The Band
3. Ma'a Maitai Te Uru
A playful song about the breadfruit, and the tradition of preparing and sharing food together.
Keiki Advanced
4. Ote'a Fenua
A special Ote'a created and choreographed by our students especially for this showcase and inspired by the music of the islands.
Tahitian Drum Orchestra
5. Tahiti Tahiti
A joyful tribute to the islands of French Polynesia.
All Classes
The Band

Our Classes & Haumana

Advanced

Erin Eagen, Geralyn Grumley, Heather Kapla, Jena May, Lauren Brick, Marijo Paruch, Pamela Gibson, Ra Navarra, Rachel Capraro, Ramona Cervantes, Tessamoana Cox

Advanced Ho'opa'a

Erin Nora, Heather Kapla, Lauren Brick, Ro Martin

All Classes

Everyone

Beginner Ho'opa'a

Jena May, Megumi Kurata, Stella Fang, Tessa Cox

Hālau

Alexandra Wick, Brooke Bolton, Colleen Shapas-Brettschneider, Devy DeMello-Johnson, Erica Jeszke, Erin Eagen, Geralyn Grumley, Harmony LeBoeuf, Heather Kapla, Jena May, Lauren Brick, Marijo Paruch, Megumi Kurata, Merce Gooding, Mia Shepherd, Micayla Amber, Michelle Tongko, Monica Jones, Nanda Cagiali, Nichole Voss, Pamela Gibson, Rachel Capraro, Rachelle Navarra, Ramona Cervantes, Ro Martin, Sarah Johri, Stella Fang, Tessamoana Cox, Valerie Fillar, Valerie Fillar

Hula Basics & Workshops

Alexandria Sewell, Andra Barget, Andrea Fradl, Archana Uppal, Breann McCarter, Bridget Bond, Eriko Leeds, Jennifer Busser, Kayo Watanabe, Keiko Kikuchi, Keiko Olsen, Lesley Thomas, Liz Kellogg, Maki Ichida, Megan Lynch-Bazzi, Melissa Kalnasy, Minori Ozaki, Rachel Lipovsky, Sachiyo Yamada, Shauna Newbold, Stella Fang, Tia Perrone, Valerie Fillar

Keiki

Anna Martin, Aurella Gach, Blaire Mondonedo, Ena Oki, Kayleigh Gilliland, Maveri DeSeranno, Nora Castan, Rhiannon Jones, Saki Hirato, Sophia Filipowski, Valeria Nambo, Willa Shoup

Keiki Advanced

Aurella Gach, Bobby Busser, Brooklyn Castan, Elise Choi, June McCabe, Lily Crawford, Moira Adomaitis, Momoe Kurata, Sophia Filipowski, Tia Norris

Lead Instructor

Heather Kapla

Special Guests

Aunty Fran, Kathy Roman-Hayward

Tahitian Drum Orchestra

Jeremy Kapla, Lauren Brick, Miho May, Mike Capraro, Tulu Cox

The Band

Adina Crawford - Lead Vocals, Duane May - Bass Guitar, Jeremy Kapla - Lead Guitar, Ukulele, Backing Vocals, Joe Nora - Rhythm Guitar, Mike Capraro - Backing Vocals, Tulu Cox - Vocals