CHELSIE MARTIN

My Hula Journey

Aloha! My name is Chelsie

...and I have been dancing hula since I was 5 years old. I was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and grew up on the “9th Island” in the bright lights of Las Vegas, Nevada!

In 2014, after having a successful competition placing first as a wahine soloist, I decided to take a much needed break from hula for the next 8 years. It was a time to grow and reconnect with myself. I didn't quite understand the significance of hula, but during those years, I finally realized how much of an impact hula had made in my life.

In those years, I had experienced many life changes such as the loss of my beloved grandmother, creating a family of my own, moving out of state, surviving a worldwide pandemic, and joining a new halau, The Academy of Hawaiian Arts!

Kumu Mark has become the vessel in finding my passion for hula once again. From the moment I stepped foot in the halau and felt the beat of the music, I knew this is where I wanted to be.

I was ready for all the craziness that it brought.

From the late night practices, demanding schedules, long commute home, and keeping up with family life, I promised myself that I was all in.

I never would have imagined that I'd get the opportunity to take on the Merrie Monarch stage once again and for the 3rd time in my hula life. But this time, it would be with Kumu Mark Ho'omalu himself!

I am very excited for what my future holds this coming year. 2024 will be a significant year for me as it marks my beloved grandmother's 10 year anniversary since her passing, celebrating my great grandmother's 100th birthday, and taking on the big stage at Merrie Monarch. I am grateful and blessed knowing that I have incredible support from my parents, wife, kids, and family.

Although it has been a nerve-racking yet exciting year with AHA, I am grateful for all the hospitality that has been shown.

I admire the Kukui dancers as they have helped to mold me into being a stronger AHA dancer. I look forward to continuing my journey with this incredible halau.

With your gracious donation, it would help to fulfill my pursuit in continuing my lifelong hula journey. I am extremely honored and humbled to take the stage with AHA and make my family proud once again!