halau

Halau is a Hawaiian term meaning "house" or "place of instruction" and is commonly used to describe a school or troupe dedicated to hula and related performing arts. A halau hula is usually led by a kumu hula (master teacher) and comprises haumana (students) who learn through practice, memorization of chants, mele (songs), and choreography. Halau may be tied to a family lineage or to a particular line of teachers, with membership often by audition or invitation.

Curriculum typically covers hula kahiko (ancient style) and hula ʻauana (modern style), as well as oli (chant), mele (songs), and aspects of Hawaiian language and history. Students also learn traditional dress, ceremony, and the use of musical accompaniment such as ipu heke and pahu.

Halau perform at community events, cultural festivals, luaus, and educational settings, and some participate in hula competitions such as the Merrie Monarch Festival. Many halau also offer workshops and outreach programs to teach Hawaiian culture and language to wider audiences.

Halau vary in size, emphasis, and style, reflecting Hawaii's diverse communities. Some prioritize traditional practice and lineage, while others blend contemporary dance with hula. The term halau may also refer to the physical space where instruction and rehearsal occur.

See also: Hula, Kumu hula, Merrie Monarch Festival.