Our Mission
To perpetuate hula as a pathway to cultural identity, ancestral memory, and aloha ʻāina.
Our Vision
The persistence of culture through generations who know who they are, where they come from, and their kuleana to the future.
Hālau Values
What We Offer
Our hālau welcomes haumāna of every age, from keiki to kūpuna. Keiki are grouped by age and stage of development, while our adult papa provide opportunities to strengthen technique, deepen cultural understanding, and continue growing in hula. New and returning adult haumāna begin with Papa Huli (Master of the Basics), where they build a strong foundation that supports continued learning in hālau.
Whether you are taking your first steps in hula or continuing a lifelong practice, we welcome you to grow in ʻike, strengthen your connection to culture and ʻāina, and mai poina ka hoʻoilina (never forget your heritage) as we work together to perpetuate hula for future generations.
Kumu Hiwa Vaughan-Darval
Kumu Hiwa Vaughan-Darval is a respected Kumu Hula, cultural practitioner, choreographer, and educator dedicated to perpetuating the traditions and values of hula. As Kumu Hula of Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine, she believes hula is a pathway to cultural identity, ancestral memory, and aloha ʻāina. Her life's work is devoted to ensuring that future generations know who they are, where they come from, and the kuleana they carry forward.
Her hula journey began at the age of three under the guidance of renowned kumu including Kimo Alama Keaulana, Kealoha Kalama, Leimomi Ho, Chinky Mahoe, and Mae Ulalia Loebenstein. In 1985, she earned the title of Miss Keiki Hula, followed by Miss Aloha Hula at the Merrie Monarch Festival in 1995, becoming one of only a handful of women to receive both honors. In 2006, she graduated within the ceremonial rites of ʻūniki under Master Kumu Hula Mae Kamamalu Klein and, in 2022, proudly graduated her own papa ʻūniki, continuing the distinguished Maʻiki Aiu Lake lineage. In 2006, she founded Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine, where her greatest accomplishment is not measured by awards, but by cultivating haumāna with a deep sense of identity, purpose, and responsibility to their culture and community.
Beyond the hālau, Kumu Hiwa has shared Hawaiian culture worldwide through performances, workshops, and educational programs. As lead choreographer for Cirque du Soleil's ʻAuana, she continues to bring the stories and traditions of Hawaiʻi to global audiences. Whether teaching at home or abroad, she remains committed to preserving Hawaiian culture and inspiring others to carry it forward with authenticity and aloha.