Papa Kōlea: Foundations
Kōlea - Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva)
North Kona, April 2026
Introductory Class for All New Students
Location: Ruma Studio | 2232 D Street, Suite 203 (2nd Floor), La Verne, CA 91750
This is our inaugural class offering, with the first session beginning September 3, 2026. Class sizes are intentionally kept small to support focused, personalized instruction, and early registration is encouraged.
Papa Kōlea is the foundational entry class for adults beginning their study with Ka Pā Hula Nā Manu Hoʻoheno Aloha (Hula Manu).
This eight-week learning period introduces foundational hula steps and rhythmic patterns, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, cultural practices, and the study of nā manu through mele, imagery, and movement. More than simply learning movements, students begin developing the skills, awareness, and understanding that form the foundation for continued study within our pā hula.
Four Opportunities to Begin
Rather than offering year-round open enrollment, Hula Manu welcomes new haumāna into four designated Papa Kōlea learning periods each year. New students must begin at the start of one of these periods.
Learning Period 1 (REGISTRATION FULL): September 3–October 22, 2026
Learning Period 2: November 5, 2026–January 14, 2027
Learning Period 3: February 4–March 25, 2027
Learning Period 4: April 8–May 27, 2027
After completing Papa Kōlea, haumāna will be invited into leveled, continuous classes based on readiness and Kumu's discretion.
An Opportunity to Keep Learning
Once you complete the learning period and move into a continuing class, you are welcome to continue attending Papa Kōlea, space permitting and at no additional cost.
With Hula Manu's flat-rate tuition, you have the opportunity to revisit foundational movements, strengthen muscle memory, and deepen your learning through additional practice.
Class Days & Times
Thursdays, 6:30–8:00 PM. Any holiday closures or canceled classes will be communicated in advance.
Papa Kōlea Learning Periods
Learning Period 1 (REGISTRATION FULL)
September 3, 10, 17, 24
October 1, 8, 15, 22
Learning Period 2
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10, 17
January 7, 14
Learning Period 3
February 4, 11, 18, 25
March 4, 11, 18, 25
Learning Period 4
April 8, 15, 22, 29
May 6, 13, 20, 27
Description & Learning Goals
This class offers adult learners an introduction to hula, the traditional dance of Hawaiʻi, taught as a lineage-based cultural practice that integrates movement, music, language, and storytelling. Students will learn foundational hula steps, rhythmic patterns, introductory ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), and cultural practices while developing proper posture, coordination, timing, and expressive movement.
No prior hula or dance experience is required. Emphasis is placed on learning, cultural respect, and personal growth rather than competition or required performance.
This class serves as the foundational entry point into Hula Manu's adult program and is a prerequisite for Papa ʻApapane (Wāhine + Kāne I – Beginner/Intermediate) and Papa Pueo (Mākua, ages 35+).
What You'll Learn
Foundational hula movements and basic rhythmic patterns
Proper posture, coordination, timing, and alignment
Selected Hawaiian cultural concepts, vocabulary, and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi
Hula as a physical and cultural practice that supports mindfulness and personal wellness
Greater awareness, presence, and expressive storytelling through movement
Attire & Etiquette
Students enrolled in the Foundations class may wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing suitable for movement. While not required at this level, obtaining the Hula Manu class uniform, which includes a practice pāʻū (skirt) and Hula Manu T-shirt or tank top, is highly encouraged for those planning to continue their hula journey with us. The uniform will become a requirement upon advancement to Papa ʻApapane (Wāhine + Kāne 1), Papa Pueo (Mākua), and subsequent classes. Lighter, natural tones are encouraged in keeping with traditions of this hula lineage.
Classes are conducted barefoot. Hair should be secured away from the face, and long hair should be neatly pulled back, preferably in a bun.
These guidelines support a focused, respectful learning environment and help introduce students to the etiquette and intention that are important aspects of hula practice.
Tuition
To reserve your place in Hula Manu's inaugural class beginning September 3, 2026, a $25 registration deposit is required. Registration opens August 1, 2026, and early registration is encouraged, as class sizes are intentionally kept small. The deposit will be applied toward your first month's tuition (September 2026).
Thereafter, tuition is a flat monthly rate of $65, payable online. Save 10% by enrolling in monthly autopay (subscription), reducing your tuition to $58.50 per month.