Learn to Hula

Community Contributed by Alison Place

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to watch her dance, you would see a deep love and passion for hula exudes from Valerie Dudoit Temahaga. Her grace and aloha mesmerize and all who have watched her dance or teach can see this love and passion clearly.

From the age of three Val learned to dance hula from Aunty Moana Dudoit – thus beginning the life-long love affair. It is a gift she has chosen to share with others. Forty-something years later, Val, now an Alaka’i is still dancing and is “paying it forward” by teaching any who wish to learn.

“Today I can honestly say that if it wasn’t for Aunty Moana and Raquel, I would have never been where I am today.  So to Aunty Moana and Raquel thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for teaching me all that I know today about hula. They will always have a special part in my heart.”

For those who have always longed to learn hula, Val says, “Come! If you truly have a love for hula than why wait? Only one thing, commitment plays a big part in any choice that you make. Hula is a commitment.”

Val offers free hula classes every Monday (excluding holidays) at the Mitchell Pauole Center. Beginner (children) classes are from 4 – 5 p.m., advanced or experienced children come from 5 – 6 p.m. and adults have their class from 6 – 7 p.m. Call Joshua Adachi at 553-1730 to register or stop by and check it out!