Our Masterclass Workshops
Saturday, July 11
Lei Wili Workshop (Flower Lei Making)
9:00 - 12:00 PM | 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Join Master Artisan Uʻi Kahue of Maui Grown 808 for an immersive 3-hour workshop in the intricate art of Lei Wili. This traditional Hawaiian method involves a rhythmic winding and wrapping technique to secure fresh foliage and blooms onto a central backing.
In this session, you will learn to select, prep, and "wili" a vibrant array of fresh greenery and flowers to create a stunning Lei Poʻo (head lei).
The Perfect Pair: For those participating in our Ulana Lau Niu (Coconut Weaving) workshop, this Lei Poʻo is designed to fit perfectly as a decorative band for your handmade Pāpale (hat), creating a complete piece of wearable island art.
What You’ll Learn:
The mechanics of the wili (wrapping) technique.
Proper handling and preservation of fresh Pacific Northwest and tropical flora.
The cultural significance of lei-making as an expression of Aloha.
Ulana Lau Niu (Coconut Leaf Weaving)
9:00 - 12:00 PM | 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Calling all weavers and crafters! Join us at Hoʻopili Me Ke Aloha 2026 (Polynesian Festival) for a 3-hour intensive workshop in Ulana Lau Niu—the ancient Polynesian art of coconut leaf weaving.
Under the expert guidance of Mario Siatris (Master Gardener), you will transform raw coconut fronds into a functional, beautiful pāpale (hat).
Why this workshop is unique:
Authentic Materials: Mario and Uʻi are bringing the leaves directly from their Maui nursery to ensure the highest quality for your project.
Self-Taught Mastery: Mario’s journey to reclaim this nearly lost art form offers a unique perspective on traditional craftsmanship.
Small Group Setting: Intimate instruction ensures you walk away with a completed hat and a new skill set.
10:45 - 12:45 PM - At Inspire Women’s Fitness
Join us for a 2-hour immersive dance workshop where we dive into the beautiful meaning of Lei Haliʻa by the legendary Kealiʻi Reichel. This song, which speaks of a "Lei of Fond Memories," serves as the perfect canvas to learn the fluid movements and heartfelt storytelling of Hula.
No experience? No problem. This workshop is designed for both absolute beginners and intermediate dancers. We will provide tiered instruction, offering simplified movements for those new to the art and more intricate hand-and-foot coordination for those looking to advance their practice.
What you will learn:
Foundational hula steps.
The poetic meaning (kaona) behind the lyrics of Lei Haliʻa.
A complete, simple choreography to take home with you.
Come as you are, and leave with a deeper connection to the spirit of Aloha.
Hula All Levels (Hawaiian Dancing)
1:00 - 3:00 PM - At Inspire Women’s Fitness
Feel the rhythm and find your strength in this immersive 2-hour Tahitian dance intensive. Designed for all levels, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn the powerful art of ’Ori Tahiti to the sound of live drumming.
No experience? This is the perfect place to start. We will guide you through the foundational basics of Tahitian dance, from the grace of the ’aparima to the dynamic energy of the ’oteʻa.
What to expect:
Tahitian Basics: Learn the core steps and posture that form the foundation of ’Ori Tahiti.
Language & Culture: An introduction to the beautiful Tahitian language and its connection to the dance.
Drills & Combinations: Master rhythmic patterns and "Ori" combinations designed to build coordination and stamina.
Live Percussion: Experience the thrill of dancing to a live drummer—helping you connect deeply with the beat.