Oni Foundation Inc - Wonderful World of Aloha Cultural Activity Center — Attraction in Maui

Born and raised on Maui, Iʻve always appreciated the diversity of our cultures. Itʻs so refreshing to see how this team has professionally and respectfully, created a program and beautiful facility to share and encourage this appreciation. We've always referred to our culture in Hawaiʻi as "the melting pot". This spirit of "The Aloha Way", a celebration of our culture's diversity, is beautifully examplified at this cultural center. I apologize for the length of this review, but I just can't say enough great things about this new opportunity for tourists and locals alike, located in convenient central Maui!

I shared lots of "chicken skin" or "goose bump" moments with Ku`ulei as I was treated to my personalized tour. Guided under Kuʻulei's expertise, I gained meaningful perspectives, education and validation. It was truly a meaningful experience of "talk story" too.

After touching base with Keoni about my wonderful experience, he invited me to attend a special opening at the center the following day in which businesses from Maui's tourism industry were invited to an introduction of the services offered by this center. We were all impressed. There was chatter amongst the crowd of how professional our presentation was, how this is a "winner", how great to have this available in central Maui! I once again gained insights under Kuʻulei's direction with a captivating tour of their exhibit rooms fully equipped with authentic artifacts, cultural and ethnic diversity, and framed documents depicting these themes. The five star show that followed featured dances from all ethnicities performed by skilled, engaging, enthusiastic performers. I just couldn't stop smiling as I watched.

My experiences with the Wonderful World of Aloha Cultural Activity Center inspired me to register for one of their cultural classes which is offered weekly, Korean drumming. Once again, I give this class a 5 star rating. Under the direction of patient, enthusiastic, joyful Keoni and Kalai, I really had a great time with my "Buk", and I plan to repeat this class and try some others as well.

As a retired teacher, I encouraged the team of this cultural center to network with our Maui schools and provide programs for our diverse island children. Along with our tourists, I feel our local population will truly benefit from the positivity, recognition, education and true celebration of the diversity of Hawaiʻi depicted at Oni Foundation's Wonderful World of Aloha Cultural Activity Center. Date of experience: August 2024

Ask Lori A about Oni Foundation Inc - Wonderful World of Aloha Cultural...

If you want to know what the locals on Maui are up to regarding the arts and history of dance, you don’t want to miss this show. This high quality dance presentation enlists the talents and skills of the foundation halau (school) presenting a myriad of regional dances from Hawaii and Polynesia as well as Mexico, Spain and the Philippines. Included is a well crafted historical narrative regarding how these various dances came to Hawaii, including especially Maui. This is an event for the entire family and a great way to teach cultural dance history without it being in the least boring. Rather all the dances (and the dancers) are captivating. Halau dancers range in age from four years old (really….so cute) up to adults. Also included in the event is a crafts project and snacks and drinks. I think this is the best value for entertainment on Maui that also supports the dedicated locals who both manage and teach at the Wonderful World of Aloha. Don’t miss it!

Enriching and Entertaining for the...

I cannot recommend the "Migrations" Dance Spectacular enough! From the moment we checked in, the atmosphere was vibrant and inviting. The crafting session was a delightful start—we made our own Ti Leaf bracelet while sipping on refreshing beverages. The guided tour through the costume museum was both educational and engaging, showcasing Hawaiian history and its many cultural influences. The dance performance was the highlight of the evening! Each group's unique style brought a burst of color and energy, celebrating the diversity that makes Hawaii special. As a dance performer myself, I appreciate the skill and energy they bring to the...