|
|
|
HOW IT ALL BEGAN WITH KUMU KAUI BROWNKumu Kaui Brown was immersed in the Polynesian environment and began hula lessons at the age of three years old. She studied all of the artists' styles and techniques and learned from the masters of the era. In addition, Kaui began a television career at fourteen. Juggling homework and other interests, Kaui became a regular for studio commercials and performed on many local television programs. Accepting challenges that many older individuals would have shied away from, Kaui also became a regular participant for the production 500 miles Off Broadway. As a performer and teacher, she directed her halau, created costuming and choreographed all stage productions. When Tom Brown, the manager of the Kaala Service Club in Schofield Barracks contracted with that particular group to perform for the troops on a sunny weekend in paradise, little did he realize that he had inextricably integrated the future of several individuals in a path of excitement, adventure, romance, entertainment and accomplishments. [back to the top] 
KUMU KAUIONALANI MERGHARTOn the stage at five years old and immersed in a family dedicated to the perpetuation of the spirit of aloha and the Hawaiian culture, Kauionalani followed the path of her mom. Having the privilege and opportunity to be invited from the mainland to participate in a local halau to compete in the Merry Monarch, and the honor of winning with the Ilima Studio, only solidified her interest and motivation to expand on her dancing expertise. Kauionalani has pursued her dream of entertainment growth and perfection by accepting invitations to tour with and emcee for Hawaiian touring artists. Prepared to carry the torch passed by her mom, she now teaches, creates choreography and new costumes. At the same time, Kauionalani is the mistress of ceremonies for our performances. She counsels and encourages her students to strive for the ultimate success and emotional fulfillment that authentic Polynesian dancing can bring. With her husband Maka, they have created an impressive ensemble of percussion players and dancers to maintain and expand on the family halau originated many years ago by her mom. [back to the top] LEAD DRUMMER MAKA MERGHART Following his love for the Polynesian ways and with lots of hard work, dedication and practice, Maka (husband of Kaui Merghart) has become our lead percussionist and male dancer. Under his able leadership, he has helped the halau establish an envied place in the entertainment field. Numbering from solo to 8 or 10 kanes, they take the stage and enthrall audiences with their masculine dances and complex percussion numbers. [back to the top] 
SHAKACreating the mellow and balanced sound for the Halau O Na Ali'i performers, Shaka is led by a very experienced and capable entertainer in his own right, Keenan Kanahele. Keenan has many years of Polynesian entertainment under his belt, entertaining for many years at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Keenan has surrounded himself with world-traveled musicians along with those who love and are willing to learn the business. Ray, Joe and Richard are also accomplished musicians with many years of successful performances. [back to the top] OUR OHANA  Kaui and Kauionalani share the vision of Polynesian entertainment perfection. For almost 40 years, the concept and vision has continued. Many of our students and performers have grown up in our halau, had their own families and returned with new generations of keiki dancers and performers. We have performed in Hawaii and throughout California, Nevada, Texas, Arizona and other areas to audiences ranging from intimate crowds to over 3500 people. On stage, Kaui and Kauionalani insist that the performers maintain an attitude of regal dignity; which is not inappropriate being that the literal translation of "Na Ali'i" means "The Royalty." Kaui and her daughter try to return to the islands yearly to familiarize themselves with the latest trends and learn new techniques of the ancient dances from respected kumu hula masters. This year will mark the 16th year of local performances including our new 1999 Polynesian Spectacular at locations like the Hanalei Hotel and other areas in San Diego, CA. Our halau has continued to be very popular not only because we have new costuming and new choreography each year, but a very upbeat, fast-paced show. A stage full of dedicated, professional and intense performers with quick costume changes are what makes our halau unique. More importantly, each dancer has the individual desire to share the Polynesian culture and the spirit of aloha with each person in the audience. When our halau is not busy rehearsing and performing (which takes place every week except the Christmas holidays), we generally have special activities ranging from going to Hawaii together for fun and/or attending Hawaiiana workshops up the coast for Tahiti Fete. In addition there are concert jams, birthdays, showers and other excitement. We have been fortunate to welcome into our ohana, many sincere, dedicated and hard working individuals, all of whom share the common vision of striving for perfection in the pursuit of their love for the Polynesian way of sharing their culture and perpetuating the spirit of aloha. [back to the top] |
|
[ About Us | Contacts | Journey Through the Islands | More Links | Na Ali'i Productions Home ] Copyright © 1998 Na Ali'i Productions. Website creation and design by Mino'aka. This page hosted by GeoCities. Get your own Free Home Page |