Joycelyne “Hau’oli” Perry was born and raised in California. Her mother and grandmother were from Hilo on Big Island and her love of hula and the culture began from their encouragement. She started her hula journey with Loea Naomi Kalama, who instilled in her a passion for hula that has stayed in her heart. Hau’oli also enjoyed dancing under the direction of Kumu Ka’aumoana Kalama and Kumu Marlo Caramat, both of whom are very special to her.
Within Kūhai Hālau O Moana Pā ‘Ōlapa Kahiko, Hau’oli strives to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture and spirit of aloha along with Kumu Moana Silva. Together with her Kumu, she enjoys teaching and inspiring keiki (children) and dancers of all ages to be their best at hula kahiko and hula ‘auana, along with learning ‘ōlelo Hawai’i (Hawaiian language).
Hau’oli has won several hula competition awards, solo and group, and performed at many community events. She has had the pleasure of dancing hula with her sons and finds much joy sharing her aloha at a local elementary school. During lunch recess, you can find her teaching quick hula lessons on the blacktop or playing music for the children. She is grateful for her hula journey and her Kumu, which enables her to nurture and encourage children and adults, inside and outside of the hālau. Hau’oli loves the comfort that hula brings and sharing aloha always.