Sharla Rae Kanoelani “ Kanoe” Orzalli, daughter of Kumu Moana, was born in Honolulu, HI on the island of Oʻahu. Both of her parents were born and raised on the island but moved to the mainland shortly after her birth to pursue higher education and begin their careers. Sharla spend most of her upbringing in northern California.
The first hula she ever learned was from her grandmother in Hawaii during one of her summer visits after attending summer camp at Kamehameha school on Oʻahu. The love for hula and the Hawaiian culture was sparked by that trip and shortly after, she and her mother joined a hālau in Sacramento, CA. Under the direction of Loea Naomi Kalama, Kanoe spent many years learning her foundation for hula, ʻōlelo, and the significant role hula plays in preserving and perpetuating the Hawaiian culture and history of the Hawaiian people. She developed a strong connection and passion for hula and will always cherish the time she spent there and the lasting relationships she made with her “hula ʻohana”. She also enjoyed dancing with Loea Naomi Kalama’s nephew, Kumu Ka’aomoana Kalama briefly before supporting her mother’s ‘uniki and eventual launch of Kūhai Hālau Hula O Moana Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko.
“Watching my mom blossom into a beautiful and talented Kumu Hula has been so inspirational and dear to my heart. I have learned so much from her and have enjoyed watching her bring the spirit of hula and aloha to so many in our community. Her efforts have helped enrich the lives of many keiki who have grown up in her hālau. In recent years, I have been busy raising my two young daughters who are now both dancing in our hālau. Having the opportunity to share this experience with my mother, sister and my daughters is so special to me. I’m very grateful for all of the blessings that hula has brought to my life”
Kanoe has performed in countless community performances, placed in both solo and group competitions, and participated in workshops and ʻōlelo classes. Most of all, she enjoys sharing her beautiful culture and aloha with others.