About Us: Celebrating Culture with a Splash of Island Magic

Aloha! Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey with The Hawaiian Dance Company, your ultimate destination for vibrant and authentic Hawaiian entertainment in Toronto, Ontario. We're not just your average entertainment company; we're a passionate team that believes in spreading the spirit of aloha and sharing the captivating beauty of Polynesian culture with the world.

Picture this: swaying palm trees, golden sandy beaches, the rhythmic sound of ukuleles, and the warm embrace of Hawaiian hospitality. That's the essence we bring to every event we touch, creating an unforgettable experience that will transport you and your guests to the sun-drenched shores of the Polynesian islands.

The Magic of Polynesia, Brought to Your Doorstep

As the leading Hawaiian entertainment company in Toronto, we take pride in curating shows that are an explosion of color, energy, and pure joy. With over 100 events booked per year, our reputation speaks for itself. What sets us apart? We are the first and only authentic Hawaiian company in Ontario, owned by a Polynesian family that made the courageous journey from the islands to Canada in the 1970s. Our deep-rooted connection to our heritage shines through every performance, ensuring an experience that is rich in tradition and cultural authenticity.

Indulge in the Aloha Spirit at Any Occasion

Looking to add that extra sparkle to your milestone birthday bash, wedding reception, corporate event, or even a backyard lu'au? We've got you covered! Our dynamic shows, perfect for Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughn, and surrounding cities, are tailored to cater to a wide range of events and celebrations. From the smallest intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate galas, we know how to infuse every occasion with a touch of island magic. Need entertainment for your kid's party, senior home celebration, school event, or grand opening? Consider it done! Our versatile performances are designed to captivate audiences of all ages, leaving everyone with smiles that stretch from ear to ear.

Introducing the Visionaries: Mama La'aina and DAUGHTER Aliki

Behind every great performance lies a team of passionate visionaries. Allow us to introduce you to the heart and soul of The Hawaiian Dance Company: Mama La'aina and Aliki. Mama La'aina, our cultural matriarch, hails from the enchanting islands of Tonga. With her vibrant energy and infectious love for her Polynesian heritage, she has nurtured the traditions of her homeland and passed them down through generations.

Message from Mama La'aina

Aloha!. My name is La'aina Mo'ungaloa Kavouras and I helped my daughter Aliki start The Hawaiian Dance Company in 2010.  I am honoured to be able to share my culture with you, your family and friends.  

I  am a 100% Polynesian islander that moved away from my paradise home, Tonga Islands to come to Canada in 1973.  Hawaiians and Polynesians are the same. Hawaiians are the most well-known Polynesians in our Island chain in case you are wondering about the word Polynesian.   

Dancing, singing, grass skirts, fresh flower lei, the ocean breeze and palm trees blowing in the wind are all memories from my childhood.  When I had my daughters the only way I knew how to raise them was, the Polynesian way, with lots of lu'au celebrations, dancing, singing and of course lots of lu'au pig:)  Our family to this day keeps our Polynesian culture going strong and we are so happy to be able to share it with you.

Dive into the Sea of Polynesian Heritage

Did you know that Hawaiians and Polynesians share a common ancestry? Our roots trace back to the birthplace of Polynesians—Tonga and Samoa. These skilled voyagers embarked on daring expeditions, exploring and settling the islands that form the magnificent Polynesian Triangle. Today, our Indigenous Polynesian community in Toronto is a close-knit family of less than 50, all connected by the vibrant threads of our shared heritage.

Aliki, her daughter, is the artistic director of our show. Born into a world of lu'au parties, she breathes, lives, and dances Polynesia. Her expertise and talent have taken her around the globe, perpetuating the rich tapestry of Polynesian culture.

Message from daughter Aliki

Aloha my name is Aliki, the daughter in this team.  I like to say I was born into a lu'au party and have not stopped dancing and living my culture since.   Everything Polynesian I have learned has come form my mother, aunts, cousins and teachers along the way and I am very proud to say "I share my culture for a living!"  I am the Artistic Director of the show overseeing costume creation, choreography and over-all product authenticity. I've worked as a Hawaiian/Polynesian Culture Specialist in the United States  and I have studied and perpetuated Polynesian culture all over the world.

Aliki's Hawaiian Dance Accomplishments

Throughout my career, I have danced at numerous engagements, including:

• the Nascar Races in Homestead Florida

• on MTV’s My Super Sweet Sixteen Show

• for the late Anna Nicole Smith at lu'au hosted by her

• at private parties for many celebrities

• Google & Coca-Cola Corporate Events

• NHL Philadelphia Flyers player private party

My training includes dancing with the following world-renowned Polynesian groups:

• Drums of Polynesia under the direction of Maori culture expert, RJ Rewi

• Na Ohana ‘O Kealoha Dance School under the direction of Hawaiian culture expert, Kumu (Teacher) U’ilani Kam

• The Tongan National Centre on Tonga Island.

I  have studied under many of the world’s finest Polynesian teachers including:

• Tahitian culture expert, Maire Tuia (Heiva I Tahiti Winner)

• Tongan culture experts, Ma’ata Mo’ungaloa (Miss South Pacific 1996)

• Kau Fo’ou of Tonga Island.

I have been teaching Polynesian dance for over 15 years and I have a wealth of experience in the professional Polynesian dance world.  I am a graduate of York Universities Theatre Program and I have also earned her Musical Theatre Diploma from Etobicoke School of the Arts.

Unleash Your Inner Islander: Experience the Dance of a Lifetime

Imagine the enchanting sway of hula dancers, the pulsating rhythm of Polynesian drums, and the mesmerizing spectacle of our authentic costumes. When you book The Hawaiian Dance Company, you're not just getting a performance.