Hula dancers are learning the upbeat ‘Haleiwa Hula’

HUI O HULA

Hui O Hula has kept busy with performances including a special celebration for Leisure World stockholder Rosie Rogala of Mutual 14, who recently turned 90. Rogala hosted about 75 guests at the nearby Acapulco Restaurant, renting out the entire floor.

Music, laughter and joy filled the room as guests of all ages joined in—children paddled canoes in a South Pacific tune, a newly engaged couple swayed to “That’s Amore,” and Rogala herself danced during “Blue Hawaii.”

Rogala, originally from the Philippines, has called Leisure World home for 25 years. She and her late husband, Jerry, enjoyed skiing and tennis. They travelled across Europe and Egypt. After his passing, Rogala continued her travels to Cuba and Mexico. A devoted family and community member, faithful Rogala also served two terms as president of the Catholic Women’s “Little Flower” Guild.

Meanwhile, in class, Hui O Hula dancers are studying the upbeat “Haleiwa Hula.” Through their motions, dancers bring to life the song about carefree times on the North Shore—“Up in Haleiwa at the Sugar Bar, we danced to music underneath the stars; by the old plantation in Wailua Town; Mokuleia is where we fool around.” Dancers are encouraged, by instructor Jojo Weingart, to blend rhythm with a playful spirit by using their hands, hips and facial expressions.

Hula lessons are open to all in Leisure World. Sessions meet Tuesdays at 1 p.m. upstairs in Clubhouse 6 Mirror Room and Thursdays at 1 p.m. outdoors at Veterans Plaza. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring soft shoes if they do not want to dance barefoot. For more information, call or text 562-338-1502 or email Jojo@huiohula.com.

Hui O Hula dancers perform at Acapulco Restaurant during the 90th birthday celebration of Rosie Rogala of Mutual 14.

Jojo Weingart