Kaʻilihiwa Vaughan-Darval

About Kumu Hiwa

Kumu Hula Hiwa Vaughan is a highly respected and internationally renowned hula practitioner, known for her mastery in both traditional and contemporary hula. She is one of only five women to hold two of hula’s most prestigious titles: Miss Keiki Hula (1985) and Miss Aloha Hula (1995).

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Her hula journey began at the age of three, leading her to study under esteemed Kumu Hula, including Kimo Alama Keaulana, Kealoha Kalama, Leimomi Ho, Chinky Mahoe, and Mae Loebenstein. She later completed her formal ʻūniki (graduation) as a Kumu Hula under Master Kumu Hula Mae Kamamalu Klein, of the Maʻiki Aiu lineage.

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A gifted choreographer, Kumu Hiwa brings a deep cultural foundation and artistic vision to every stage she graces. She is the lead choreographer for "ʻAuana", Cirque du Soleil’s newest production, which celebrates Hawaiian culture through a fusion of breathtaking acrobatics and the rich storytelling traditions of hula.

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Her hālau, Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine, is recognized for its firm foundation in traditional hula footwork and its dedication to the teachings of her hula lineage. Kumu Hiwa ensures that her haumāna (students) receive a comprehensive education in hula, including ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, oli (chanting), ʻōlapa (kahiko), ʻauana, and the craftsmanship of hula implements—requiring each student to make their own as part of their training.

Rooted in a family of musicians, Kumu Hiwa has traveled worldwide, sharing Hawaiʻi’s cultural traditions through music and dance. With over a decade of experience as a kumu hula and an award-winning choreographer, she continues to shape the future of hula on both local and international stages.