Keali’i Reichel and His Heavenly Halau

By Maesyn

Gyrating hips.

Arms that push and pull the air like Tai Chi masters.

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The art of Hula dancing is an ancient tradition full of mystical secrets, symbolically hidden within movement. Immeasurably interwoven with this writhing art form is the music that accompanies it.

The music holds teachings of simplicity and poetry that convey ancient wisdom designed to free the dancers and the viewers from the material illusion of suffering.

Keali’i Reichel is a world reknowned master of these chants, and a Hawaiian legend. He has amalgamated the old ways with new embellishments, and created a style of music that carries the power of the ancients in a contemporary and creative way.

A passionate preserver of Hawaiian culture, he founded his own Hula school, called Halau Ke`alaokamaile. These dancers perform with him when he plays publicly.

They will be holding their annual fundraiser for the school, called “Kukahi” this February 12 & 13 at 7:30 pm at the MACC’s Castle Theater.

These annual concerts always sell out, for Keali’i Reichel is famous for orchestrating intricately choreographed performances that are spellbinding and healing for the audience.

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In addition to his performances, Keali’i is one of Hawaii’s most popular recording artists. He has won 19 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards for his music, and has risen to top the world music charts.

Keali`i has opened concerts for Bonnie Raitt, LeAnn Rimes, Celine Dion and Sting. He has played such renowned venues as Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl, and consistently sells out concerts all over the world.

In 1994 he independently produced an album called “Kawaipunahele,” a collection of Hawaiian traditional and contemporary songs and chants.

His music can consistently be found on Billboard Magazine’s World Music and Heatseeker Charts, making him beloved by the international community.

Raised on Maui in Lahaina, he spent his childhood learning from his grandmother, developing a deep love of Hawaiian native culture. Following his purpose, he became the founding director for Pünana Leo O Maui, the Hawaiian language immersion school.

This fervor for Hawaiian tradition is found in his voice, his poetry, and the sacred Hula dance of his beloved Halau.

The community always comes out in droves to support and experience the magic of Keali’i, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance.

You can buy them at www.mauiarts.org or at the box office.

* If you have suggestions for Mauinow entertainment articles, please email [email protected]. Aloha!