Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha may be translated as "The Hula School of the Beloved Ones Cherished in Aloha." Our nickname, Hula Manu, may be translated as "bird hula."

Both names were chosen with great intention. In addition to their literal meanings, they carry deeper symbolism (kaona) that reflects the mission, values, and identity of our pā hula.

Birds are a unifying theme throughout Hula Manu. In Hawaiian tradition, they are often associated with communication, observation, navigation, memory, and the carrying of ʻike (knowledge) across generations, qualities that resonate deeply with the practice of hula.

On a personal level, Kumu Nohea has an affinity and appreciation for birds and the natural world. Their beauty, behaviors, songs, and connections to place inspire many aspects of Hula Manu's teaching, encouraging students to cultivate greater awareness, curiosity, and respect for both Hawaiian culture and the environment.

Classes are currently offered exclusively for adults aged 18 and older, and are open to all experience levels.

Papa Kōlea: Foundations is the required entry class for all new students. It is designed for both beginners and experienced dancers seeking structured foundational training.

Participation in Hula Manu is a commitment to shared learning and practice. All haumāna need to carefully read the school’s mission and values. By enrolling, students agree to uphold these.

Ruma Studio
2232 D Street, Suite 203 (2nd Floor)
La Verne, CA 91750

Ruma Studio provides a dedicated dance space that supports focused learning and community-based instruction in the heart of La Verne.

Hula Manu gathers on the traditional homelands of the Tongva (Gabrielino-Tongva) people. We respectfully acknowledge their enduring stewardship of this land and honor the opportunity to learn, teach, and gather here.

Registration is completed through the Hula Manu website. To reserve your place in our inaugural Papa Kōlea: Foundations class beginning September 3, 2026, a $25 reservation deposit may be submitted starting August 1, 2026. This deposit will be applied toward your September tuition.

Once your deposit or initial tuition payment is received, you will be sent a link to complete the online registration form.

After classes begin in September, registration will remain open until capacity is reached. Early registration is highly encouraged, as space is limited.

Please note: Hula Manu classes are currently open to adult learners ages 18 and older only.

August 1, 2026, for classes beginning September 3, 2026.

Class sizes are intentionally limited to support focused, individualized instruction. Registration will close once capacity is reached.

Hula Manu classes are closed to drop-ins out of respect for our haumāna and the learning environment. If you are interested in trying a class, we would be happy to arrange a complimentary trial class for you. Trial classes must be scheduled in advance.

No. 

A $25 reservation deposit holds your place for the inaugural class and is applied toward September tuition.

Tuition is a flat monthly rate of $65.
Autopay subscription students receive a discounted rate of $58.50 per month (10% off).

Enrollment requires a monthly payment unless you are enrolled in autopay, which processes automatically and includes a 10% discount. All payments can be made on our website.

Tuition is due on the 1st of each month.

Month-to-month students must submit payment by the due date. A $15 late fee will be applied if payment is not received by the 5th.

Autopay students are not subject to late fees.

Autopay students receive a discounted rate of $58.50 per month, automatic billing, and uninterrupted enrollment.

Yes. Students may enroll in or cancel autopay at any time.

Payments may be made through:

• Online payment via the Hula Manu website (includes autopay option)

Cash payments are not accepted.

Yes. Enrollment may be accepted after classes begin if space is available. Availability is limited during the inaugural period and will expand based on demand. Please subscribe to our mailing list for updates.

Yes. Additional levels, including intermediate and advanced classes, will be introduced as Hula Manu grows. Offerings will expand based on enrollment and community interest.

Possibly. Future offerings for keiki (children) and ʻōpio (teenagers) may be introduced as the pā grows.

Papa Kōlea: Foundations introduces hula as a cultural practice integrating movement, music, language, and storytelling. Students learn foundational hula, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, cultural context, and explore nā manu (birds) as a lens for observation and expression.

Papa is the word for “class” in Hawaiian. Kōlea refers to the Pacific Golden Plover.

Yes. It is the entry point and prerequisite for all Hula Manu programming.

No. Papa Kōlea is designed for beginners and those reviewing fundamentals. All students begin here before advancing to higher levels.

No. Performance is not required for Papa Kōlea. Optional hōʻike (presentation) opportunities may be offered. Performance expectations increase at higher levels.

Each class at Hula Manu is named after a native or culturally significant Hawaiian bird. The qualities associated with each manu reflect the focus and progression of the class while encouraging a deeper appreciation for Hawaiʻi's natural world and cultural traditions.

• Kōlea – Foundations (18+): Represents migration, perseverance, and new beginnings. This is the required entry class for all new haumāna.

• ʻApapane – Wāhine + Kāne 1: Represents vitality and continued growth.

• ʻIʻiwi – Wāhine + Kāne 2: Represents beauty, refinement, and developing mastery.

• ʻIwa – Wāhine + Kāne 3: Represents strength, navigation, and confidence.

• ʻŌʻō – Wāhine 3: Represents remembrance, voice, and honoring what has been entrusted to us.

• Mamo – Kāne 3: Represents excellence and legacy.

• Pueo – Mākua (35+): Represents wisdom, awareness, and thoughtful practice.

• ʻAlalā – Kūpuna (65+): Represents resilience, stewardship, and the enduring importance of every voice.

Consistency is essential. Hula is learned through repetition and presence.

Kumu may follow up if attendance affects learning progress.

Arrive 5–10 minutes early.

Participate respectfully

• Attend consistently and on time

• Take responsibility for learning

• Contribute to a positive environment

Please read our Haumāna Handbook carefully and completely, as it details our school expectations and policies.

Yes, within your approved level. Papa Kōlea is open to all students.

Make-up classes are not structured separately since we offer flat rate tuition. Students may attend other classes only if approved for that level.

The Hula Manu uniform is encouraged for Papa Kōlea and Papa ʻAlalā and required for all other classes. When not wearing the uniform, students should wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for movement. Natural, lighter tones are encouraged. Classes are conducted barefoot. Hair should be neatly secured away from the face. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. A simple pua, hulu (feather), or other culturally appropriate hair adornment is welcome, but not expected.

Yes. A Hula Manu uniform (pāʻū skirt and top) is highly encouraged in Foundations and required at the ʻApapane level and above.

Leggings, shorts, or pants (mid-thigh or longer) should be worn under the pāʻū.

Grooming guidelines:

• Hair secured away from face

• Minimal jewelry

• Barefoot practice