Kumu Hula Kapua Francisco began his hula journey as a young boy at Keali‘ika‘apunihonua Ke‘ena A‘o Hula under Kumu Hula Leimomi Ho. He later joined Hālau Nā Mamo O Pu‘uanahulu as a teenager, where he studied for 19 years under Kumu Hula William Kahakuleilehua Haunu‘u Sonny Ching. In October 2011, he completed the traditional ‘uniki ceremony and became a Kumu Hula.

 

In January 2012, Kumu Hula Kapua Francisco founded Hālau Nā Mamo O Ka Liko Maile O Kohala. This school is dedicated to preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture through hula. Its primary goal is to perpetuate and transmit ancestral Hawaiian knowledge through the traditional art form known as the hula and other cultural practices. Kumu Hula Kapua Francisco offers opportunities for students of all ages to build a strong identity and connection to their homeland and host culture while fostering a desire to embrace Hawaiian values and purpose.

 

The name of our hālau was thoughtfully chosen with the blessing of Kumu Hula Sonny Ching. It honors the connection between Kumu Hula Kapua Francisco's ‘ohana (family) and lineage from Kohala, Hawai‘i, and the relationships with Kumu Hula Sonny Ching and Hālau Nā Mamo O Pu‘uanahulu, as well as the seven Kumu Hula of Papa Maile: Kumu Hula Gary Casupang, Kumu Hula Tehani Gonzado, Kumu Hula Lōpaka Igarta-De Vera, Kumu Hula Lahela Igarta, Kumu Hula Gina Jingao, and Kumu Hula Noah Ryan. Our hālau’s logo features a traditional Hawaiian design that symbolizes Kumu Hula Kapua Francisco’s lineage and connection to Kohala.

 

We welcome anyone interested in learning hula, regardless of their skill level, as long as they are dedicated and committed to mastering the teachings. Our dance style reflects the teachings of Kumu Hula Kapua Francisco. We practice in Keaʻau on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. Please feel free to reach out for more information.

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Mahalo iā ʻoukou pākahi a pau!