Papa Pueo: Mākua

Pueo - Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus sandwichensis)

Ryan Sanderson / Macaulay Library

Adult Co-Ed | Mixed Level Ongoing Class | Ages 35+

Class Schedule: Wednesdays, 7:30–9:00 PM [Begins November 4, 2026.]
Location: Fellowship Hall, La Verne Church of the Brethren
2425 E Street, La Verne, CA 91750

Prerequisite: Completion of Papa Kōlea: Foundations and placement by Kumu.

Papa Pueo is a continuing hula class for mākua (mature adults) who have completed Papa Kōlea: Foundations and prefer a less physically demanding approach to hula study.

At a comfortable, steady pace, haumāna continue developing hula technique, musicality, expressive movement, and their understanding of mele, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, and Hawaiian cultural practices.

Class Structure & Prerequisites

Papa Pueo is a continuing class rather than an eight-week learning period. Haumāna may continue their studies throughout the year, building upon previously learned material while developing new skills and knowledge.

Completion of Papa Kōlea: Foundations is required before entering Papa Pueo. Placement is based on readiness and Kumu’s discretion.

Papa Pueo offers a continuing pathway for haumāna who prefer a less physically demanding class without limiting opportunities for continued learning and development.

An Opportunity to Keep Learning

Haumāna enrolled in Papa Pueo are welcome to continue attending Papa Kōlea, space permitting and at no additional cost.

With Hula Manu’s flat-rate monthly tuition, students may take advantage of this additional learning opportunity to review foundational movements, strengthen muscle memory, and deepen their understanding of previously learned material.

Class Days & Times

Wednesdays, 7:30–9:00 PM [Begins November 4, 2026.]

Note: For now, Papa Pueo and Papa ʻApapane will be combined and will meet during the same class time. Instruction will accommodate the different physical activity levels of each class.

Location: Fellowship Hall, La Verne Church of the Brethren
2425 E Street, La Verne, CA 91750

Classes are ongoing, with scheduled breaks and holiday closures communicated in advance.

Description & Learning Goals

Papa Pueo builds upon the foundational training established in Papa Kōlea, introducing expanded hula techniques, rhythmic patterns, and choreography at a more moderate physical pace.

Students will continue developing proper posture, alignment, coordination, timing, balance, and expressive movement through structured instruction and repetition. Emphasis is placed on movement quality, musicality, and cultural understanding rather than physical intensity.

The class integrates movement, music, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, history, and cultural practices to deepen students’ understanding of hula as a living cultural tradition.

Physical Activity Level: Low to Moderate

Papa Pueo is intended for haumāna who prefer a less physically demanding approach to hula training. Instruction allows for a more moderate pace, with consideration for individual mobility, stamina, and physical abilities.

Students are encouraged to work within their individual abilities while continuing to develop strength, balance, coordination, and confidence through regular practice.

What You’ll Learn

• Expanded hula movements, rhythmic patterns, and movement combinations

• Continued development of posture, alignment, coordination, balance, and timing

• Improved movement control, flexibility, and stamina through moderate physical activity

• Choreography and expressive storytelling through hula

• Continued study of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, mele, Hawaiian history, and cultural practices

• Greater awareness of musical phrasing, rhythm, and the relationship between movement and mele

• The discipline, consistency, and cultural understanding essential to continued hula study

Learning will be progressive, with emphasis on developing a strong technical and cultural foundation at a pace appropriate to the class.

Attire & Etiquette

The official Hula Manu uniform is required for Papa Pueo.

The uniform consists of a practice pāʻū (skirt) and an official Hula Manu uniform top (T-shirt or tank top).

Classes are conducted barefoot. Hair should be secured away from the face, with long hair preferably pulled back into a bun. Minimal jewelry is encouraged, and modest adornments may be worn.

Students are expected to arrive prepared, participate respectfully, and maintain the etiquette and practices established during Papa Kōlea.

These guidelines support a focused and respectful learning environment while reinforcing the discipline, care, and intention associated with hula training.

Tuition

Tuition is a flat monthly rate of $65, payable online through the Hula Manu website.

Save 10% by enrolling in our monthly autopay subscription, reducing tuition to $58.50 per month.

Tuition includes access to Papa Pueo and the opportunity to continue attending Papa Kōlea, space permitting and at no additional cost.

Tuition is due on the 1st of each month. A $15 late fee applies to month-to-month payments received after the 7th. Autopay subscriptions are exempt from late fees.

Please note: Papa Pueo is available only to haumāna who have completed Papa Kōlea and received approval for placement from Kumu.