Meet Leonani and Nani Nahooikaika. Hawaiian hula sisters living up in Anyer.
Leo and Nani
Hawaii Where are you both from?
We Haleiwa, a small but famous surf town on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.
What led you to Indonesia?
Nani was offered a teaching position hula Indonesia. However, she refused to move to another country alone, so she convinced me to move with it. Before moving to Indonesia, we lived in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii.
I see you work in Anyer. What you both doing here?
We both teach hula in Hawaii A Club Bali Resort in Anyer and are in charge of the Hawaiian activities Resort. We teach hula primarily to hotel staff and customers and do our best to bring the spirit of aloha from Hawaii to Indonesia.
What is life like in Anyer?
Life in Anyer's ... different! Completely different from what life is like at home in Hawaii. Everything is very relaxed. In fact, we go to Jakarta on our days off just to get a taste of life in the city! As regards the people of the community, after we passed the initial gawking and looking, they are quite nice.
What do you think of our beloved city?
Jakarta is a big city! I like that it is filled with so much to do. Shopping centers, restaurants, cinemas and nail salons keep my sister and me busy.
Are many people want to learn the hula dance?
We like to call the "Trail Blazers" for hula in Indonesia. Many people in Indonesia have never heard of hula, even those in the expatriate community. We performed at several locations in Jakarta, which has contributed enormously to let people know who we are, and what is hula. When people come to the resort in Anyer, they like to take a short and simple hula lesson with friends and family.
Is it hard to learn?
Some hula can be difficult, especially if you have no rhythm. Like many other types of dance, hula can be technical. Each dancer must master the basic foot movements. These foot motions are then accompanied by hand movements as well. When put together, it tells a story.
What are the benefits of learning with you and your sister?
Well, we are the only Hawaiian in Indonesia who are teaching hula! Polynesian dance classes with us are fun and yet educational. Our hula lessons include other aspects of Hawaiian culture such as language and crafts.
How can we contact you if we want to learn?
You can contact us by email or on our mobile phone - 082112711800.