Respected kumu hula Johnny Lum Ho dies, leaving behind rich hula legacy
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A beloved figure in the hula world known for his exciting and creative performances has died.
On Sunday, family members confirmed the passing of kumu hula Johnny Lum Ho.
In a statement, they said, “Mahalo nui to all of you who have reached out with thoughts of aloha and concern. We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our beloved brother, uncle, and Kumu Hula Johnny Lum Ho.”
The statement continued, “He left this earthly realm – surrounded by family and friends – to join his heavenly Father and ʻohana who left before him. While we grieve his passing, he lived a full, blessed life that impacted generations in ways that we know his legacy will live on. We ask that you allow the family and hālau time and privacy to process and mourn. Aloha.”
He founded Hawaii Island’s Halau O Ka Ua Kanilehua winning numerous awards over the years.
HNN spoke with him in 2019 while in Hilo for Merrie Monarch. At the time, he pointed to his faith as a driving source of inspiration for everything he did. Watch the interview below:
They were often fan favorites at the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, firing up crowds with their elaborate — and sometimes out-of-the box performances.
Ho was in his 80′s and was also a respected recording artist, composer and musician.
HNN is working to gather details surrounding his death.
This is a breaking story. It will be updated.
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