The Wahine Advanced Class is Te Hau Nui’s intensive master-level class for experienced adult dancers dedicated to preserving, practicing, and performing authentic Polynesian dance traditions.

Founded in Santa Cruz in 1997 by master teacher Kumu Lorraine Kalei Kinnamon (1957–2024) and carried forward with reverence by Charmaine Moniz, Te Hau Nui ("The Great Peace") honors the sacred genealogies of Hawaiian Hula and the exhilarating power of Tahitian 'Ori Tahiti.

Repertoire & Study:

• Hula Kahiko (Ancient Hula): Sacred chants (oli) accompanied by traditional percussive implements (ipu heke, pahu, kāla‘au), focusing on ancestral deities, voyaging history, and island ecology.
• Hula ‘Auana (Modern Hula): Flowing, melodic storytelling dances set to Hawaiian slack-key guitar, ‘ukulele, and vocal harmonies.
• ‘Ori Tahiti (‘Ote‘a & ‘Aparima): Rapid, syncopated drum dances requiring exceptional core and hip stamina, paired with lyrical, expressive ballad dances.
• Performance Repertoire: Intensive rehearsal of full hālau suites for community festivals, cultural showcases, and seasonal presentations.

Class Details:

• When: Tuesdays, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: The 418 Project Lobby Dance Floor (155 River St S, Santa Cruz, CA)
• Who: Experienced wahine dancers by instructor placement or invitation.
• What to Wear: Traditional practice pā‘ū skirt, pāreu, or hālau practice attire.