About Sunshine From Polynesia
For over 30 years Sunshine From Polynesia (SFP) has devoted itself to the teaching, performance and preservation of the truly unique and beautiful storytelling dance: the hula.
SFP was founded in 1978 as a performance company by Lita Hoke and her sister-in-law. In 1985 Lita added dance instruction out of her desire to teach her daughter, Stefanie, the art of hula. Neighborhood children became interested in learning and SFP evolved into a halau (dance school) where students of various generations come from all over the greater Seattle area.
SFP is a family affair for the Hokes. Honolulu-born Coco Hoke, Lita’s high school sweetheart and husband, anchors the SFP musical group with drums, ukulele and vocals. Stefanie Hoke Foster, their daughter, is a core dancer.
Lita’s own training started in 1972 with Kumu Auntie Marge Hunt. When Auntie Marge closed her halau in 1976 to enjoy a semi-retirement, Lita continued taking occasional workshops from her and also studied with other Kumu for many years to supplement her knowledge.
Lita continues to teach dances that she was taught when she was a student and also creates original dances. Her choreography as well as these earlier dances can be seen throughout SFP’s regular performances at festivals, private events and benefits. In addition, students perform the dances they’ve learned throughout the year in SFP’s bi-annual ‘main event,’ their own Luau/Recital (Ho’ike).