Maurice Keola Ohumukini

Keola Ohumukini.jpg

A leader in preserving the link between past and present is Maurice “Keola” Ohumukini, a Kumu Hula (teacher) and master craftsman who has been dancing and teaching in Utah for over 40 years. Keola believes in sharing his knowledge of Hawaiian dance, music, instrument making, and cooking with anyone who has the passion to learn. The depth of his knowledge and versatility in traditional skills he practices have supported the cultural development of Hawaiian community in the Intermountain West for decades. Keola was responsible for founding the Utah’s first Hawaiian Civic Club as well as organizing its very first Hawaiian hula competition, the Aloha Hula Festival, in 1984.

Keola was raised in a family steeped in traditional knowledge and, among his generation, he was the one specifically chosen to study, master and carry on those traditions. His residence here in Utah has meant that his many skills have been cherished by the local Hawaiian community as he has practiced and shared them, nurturing a community of Utah-based Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders that embraces and has the tools to maintain their island heritage.

This young man has more talent in his little finger than I have in my entire being, and I am not ashamed to admit this. Have him perform the hula, "The Boy from Laupahoehoe," and you will find out for yourself how much talent he possesses and how much love he has for the traditions of ancient and modern Hawaii and the necessity of preserving the culture and traditions of Hawaii.

- Abe Panoke