OUR HĀLAU
Hālau Hula Nā Lama I Ka Uluwehi O Laka is a school of traditional hula dedicated to preserving and perpetuating the treasured hula and oli traditions of kumu hula Rolanda Mohala Reese, Mae Kamāmalu Klein and Maiki Aiu Lake by cultivating a thriving space where knowledge and tradition are passed from kumu to haumāna, nurturing discipline, self-awareness, resilience, confidence, and connection.
The hālau name, Nā Lama I Ka Uluwehi O Laka, translates to "the lama in the verdant growth of Laka," embodying our school's core philosophy. In Hawaiian mythology, Laka is revered as the essence of hula and the spirit of the forest. A sacred piece of lama wood, placed on the kuahu (altar) in hālau hula (hula schools), was wrapped in yellow kapa (barkcloth) and scented with ʻōlena (turmeric). This sacred wood embodied Laka, inspiring dancers and breathing life into their movements.
Laka is also intrinsically linked to the vital elements of water and mist, such as `ohu (ascending mist) and noe (descending mist), that nourish the forest and allow plants to thrive. The vibrant colors and fresh greenery used in hula are living expressions of Laka's radiant spirit. The term lama also signifies "light" and carries the figurative meaning of "enlightenment."
Inspired by the nurturing spirit of Laka and the deep symbolism of lama, the Hālau empowers haumāna to develop discipline, self-awareness, resilience, confidence, and connection through a journey of growth and transformation. In this way, it cultivates a verdant space where knowledge takes root and the light of understanding grows in each haumāna.