Hula Halau ‘O Makalapua, Marama Te Mafatu Nui was created in 1981 by Desiree Anjalique, with a desire to share the “Aloha” of her culture with the youth in her community. Since then, the halau has grown to encompass people from all ethnic backgrounds and ages ranging from 5 years to 88 years young. The halau is well known for their exciting shows, extravagant costumes, mesmerizing dancers and exotic drumbeats. Comprised of individuals with a passion and respect for the Polynesian cultures, this is reflected through the songs and dances performed in traditional costumes representing the style of each island.

The halau has performed extensively throughout the Bay Area as well as Oahu, Maui and Hilo, Hawaii with highlighted performances that include the famous Fairmont Hotel’s Tonga Room, Trader Vic’s, Ethnic Dance Festival, Paramount’s Great America, San Francisco’s Police Chief Inauguration, Channel 8 and 26, Stanford University’s Basketball half-time, various festivals, facilities, private and corporate events. Competing for the very first time in the San Jose Tahiti Fete in 1996, they won First Place Junior Otea, Best Costume and Perpetual Award, in 1997 Second Place Junior Otea, 1999 Second Place Junior Otea, 2000 Second Place Junior Otea and 2000 Third Place Junior Aparima, 2004 Junior Aparima and Drumming.

Affectionately known as “Auntie Des”, she has gained her knowledge of hula from family and many well known Kumus. Her family background includes music, the entertainment industry and martial arts (her father is master martial artist Raynaud Lozada of Kuochi Kali Kar who was inducted into the 2005 Martial Arts Hall of Fame). As a choreographer and performer, she has received numerous newspaper write-ups including an article in Herb Caan’s August 1995 column and appeared briefly on a television series.