Hui O Hula Dance Lessons
Hui O Hula, the Leisure World Hawaiian Dance Club, offers hula lessons twice a week. Classes are held Tuesdays at 1 p.m. in the upstairs Mirror Room of Clubhouse 6, and Thursdays at 1 p.m. at Veterans Plaza next to Clubhouse 3. If the weather becomes too hot outdoors, Thursday’s class will be held inside Clubhouse 3 in either Room 1 or 2.
All are welcome to audit or take lessons taught by Jojo Weingart. In class, many enjoy putting on long and flowing mu’umu’u/ Hawaiian dresses that accentuate the dancers’ gentle swaying hips. Otherwise, people can wear comfortable clothing for easy of movement. Hula should be danced without shoes. Those who are not accustomed to dancing barefoot should bring soft booties or socks for practice.
In August, Hui O Hula dancers are learning two contrasting hula: “Haleiwa Hula” and “The Prayer.”
“Haleiwa Hula” is composed by Jennie Nāpua Hānaiali’i Woodd and John Noble. It is a tribute to Woodds’s hometown, a popular surf town on the north shore of O’ahu, Haleiwa. Once a quiet local hangout, now a tourist favorite, this lively song is sung by Woodd’s granddaughter Amy Gilliam who is also a well-known musician. This hula is a good choice for the beginners.
By contrast, “The Prayer,” popularized by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli, is soulful and expressive. A song about having faith, it is often interpreted as a prayer for peace and protection. Sung partly in Hawaiian by musical band Ho’okena, this hula offers dancers a chance to connect on a deeper, spiritual level.
Besides learning two new hula, dancers are also preparing for two performances this week: at the Seal Beach Rehabilitation Center’s luau party, and at LW stockholder Rosa Rogala’s 90th birthday celebration. For more class or performance information, text or call 562-338-1502.
August birthday ladies Barbara May (l-r), an original member of Hui O Hula, is joined by "Mel" Blake, Susan Saraf and Jojo Weingart celebrate the spirit of friendship and champagne. Whether old-timers or newcomers, they agree that hula is as much about friendship as it is about dance.
