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Owyhee Hula OhanaWe are ecstatic to announce the participation of Owyhee Hula Ohana at the Idaho Island Festival, bringing over 8 years of dedicated experience in Hula dancing. Guided by their retired teacher and BSU mentor, Aunty Alva (Cheech) Easterling, they are a hapa group with origins from the Islands or direct connections to them. Their collective passion for Hula unites them, and they are eager to share this love through performances.
Owyhee Hula Ohana are available to bring the joy of Hula to luaus, parties, and various events. Please reach out via email if you are interested. [email protected] |
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Kimipele's Polynesian MotionIdaho Island Festival is enthusiastic to announce that Kimipele, who was the keiki alaka’i and wahine alaka’i for Na Pua IIima o Kehaulani, will be performing at our festival. With over 10 years of experience, she has competed at the E Hula Mau Hula competition in Long Beach, California, excelling as a soloist, keiki, wahine, and musician. She has also showcased her talents in Tahitian group competitions at the San Jose Tahiti Fete and as a drummer at the Las Vegas Tahiti Fete. More recently she has danced with Heali’is Polynesian Revue for three years.
Her dedication to the Pacific Islands extends beyond performance. She is passionate about teaching Hula, Tahitian, and Maori, disciplines she learned from her late Kumu Hula Kehaulani Wilson, a student of Kumu Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett. Since relocating to Twin Falls, Idaho, she has started Kimipele’s Polynesian Motion and teaches classes, enriching her community by sharing the cultural knowledge she has received. Links to her social media: instagram.com/kimipelespolynesianmotion https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559970400125&mibextid=LQQJ4d |
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Mali McCrackenExperience the artistry of Mali McCracken at our festival! Mali’s Hula Kahiko captures the spirit of Hawaiian traditions and its ties to nature. Inspired by her profound love for the ocean, which her husband Jeff describes as transformative, Mali’s connection to her heritage and ocean infuse every movement, nurtured by the guidance from Kumu Hula luminaries like Kaimana Chee, Robert Cazimero, and the beloved Marsha Grey.
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Grandma Kehau & Grandson ReeceGrandma Kehau and Grandson Reece will take stage for a heartwarming dance performance, highlighting the rich Maori culture through vibrant traditional attire and rhythmic movements. Catch a glimpse of the adorable pair at our festival!
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Tausala a SamoaMy name is Rasela Elesi Maugata, I come from the villages of Falefa, Satuimalufilufi, and Malie of Western Samoa, Lauli’i, Taū, Ofu, Masefau and Pavaia’i of American Samoa. I was born and raised in San Francisco California. I started dancing as a young girl for church functions and immediately fell in love with dancing. The people who taught me how to siva samoa were my older sisters and my father. Dancing is one of the many talents my family has. A siva samoa is a story composed by our actions and the song, it tells a very meaningful story. My inspiration to dance comes from a desire to spread my culture to those who are willing to learn and the siva samoa connects me back to my roots although I am thousands of miles away from my home. Samoa is where my parents were born and raised, and the culture has been planted in me since a youngster. Although I may not have been born there, but my families legacy was born there.
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Islander Workout with Katherine RiggsJoin us for an invigorating Islander Workout with Katherine Riggs! Experience the vibrant Polynesian culture through energizing dance routines and traditional fitness techniques. Get ready to move your body, have fun, and embrace the spirit of the islands in this unique wellness experience at Idaho Island Festival! Links to her social media: https://www.facebook.com/hothulafitnessidaho/ |
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Chrischelle HiranoMeet Chrischelle Hirano, a talented makeup artist specializing in bridal beauty with over 7 years of experience. She’s dedicated to enhancing our Cultural Arts Performances, ensuring our performers look and feel amazing. Beyond her impressive portfolio, which includes creative styled photoshoots and work on a reality show set, Chrischelle’s magnetic character shines through in her commitment to her clients. Truly a delight to work with, Chrischelle excels in all makeup styles, with a particular expertise in natural soft glam. Explore more of her stunning work on Instagram (@chrischelle.mua)! Born and raised on the Big Island of Hawai’i, Chrischelle Hirano traded island life for a fresh start in Idaho with her husband, three children, and beloved animals. Whether she’s cherishing moments with family and friends or mastering meticulous makeup applications, Chrischelle embodies a deep understanding of balance. Her vibrant spirit and knack for enhancing natural beauty without overshadowing it earn her rave reviews. With a whole-hearted approach to everything she does, Chrischelle finds fulfillment in making people feel their most beautiful. She cherishes meaningful conversations, hearty laughs, and the warmth of connecting like long-lost friends. With 7 years of experience as a professional hair and makeup artist, Chrischelle’s portfolio spans from creative styled photoshoots to reality TV. Renowned for her expertise in natural soft glam, she thrives on crafting diverse makeup styles, delighting in each transformation.B Social Media Link(s): https://www.instagram.com/chrischelle.mua?igsh=MThodno2aWh3dmk3ag== |
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Napualani HulaJoin us for an unforgettable celebration of Hawaiian culture and experience Napualani Hula by Ashley Hanato! Raised in Kealakekua on the Big Island of Hawai’i, Ashley's journey in dance began at age 10 under Kumu Hula Chrissy Kama Henriques at Hula Halau E Hulali Mai I Ka La in Honaunau of South Kona. Deeply rooted in her heritage, Ashley joyfully shares the vibrant traditions and aloha spirit of the Polynesian people through enchanting music and dance performances. Ashley also teaches Hula and Tahitian dance classes at Fort Boise Community Center and hosts lessons for events. Reach her by email for more information.
Links to social media: @ashleyhanato Email: [email protected] |
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Le Mata'u ToaPerforming a fire knife dance, Le Mata'u Toa brings to life the heart of Samoan culture by blending tradition with captivating stories and ancient myths in a dynamic and mesmerizing performance of the Siva Afi.
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