Cover photo by Louie Cheng
Māhealani’s creative work as a dancer, musician and author encourages interconnectedness, compassion and unity. She inspires her students to approach their chosen discipline with respect and dedication, and prepares them to reach the height of their abilities. Mahea has intentionally cultivated and nurtured an extended community of multi-generational, ethnically diverse and LGBTWQ welcoming learners and practitioners. Collectively, her practices foster a sense of curiosity and joyful engagement with world forms.
Productions
2025
Pōpoloheno - Songs of Resilience & Joy
Pōpoloheno is a collaborative songwriting project highlighting the historical bonds between Hawaiian and African cultures, recognizing shared values, struggles, and resilience. This project seeks to challenge misrepresentations, deepen cultural understanding, and create a lasting musical tribute to Black history in Hawai’i.
2015
Hoʻolaha - Hula Spans the Globe
A joint production celebrating the songs and hula created by Hawaiian people who traveled the world from the time of the first Western contact.2010
Hinaiti
A Tahitian dance drama about the story of the King and Queen of the dance, featuring over 100 performers.2007
A Walk by the Sea
Songs and dances representing Māhealaniʻs life journey.Upcoming Event
Awards & Honors
2026
2026
2019
City of Berkeley Proclamation
2018
Arts for a Better Bay Area
2015
Berkeley Hawaiian Music Festival
2008
Hawaiʻi Music Award
Reviews
Her artistry isn't confined to the stage. It moves through her - in the way she speaks about her heritage, in the grace of her gestures, in how she holds space for the past and the present to meet. There's a reserve in her approach, yet it never feels distant. It's human, immediate - like the echo of something familiar you can't quite name.