Kayli Ka‘iulani Carr of Halau Hi’iakainamakalehua was crowned Miss Aloha Hula at the 2016 Merrie Monarch Festival. The contest was held Thursday night. The Merrie Monarch Festival continues through April 2 with a parade, hula competition, crafts fair, performances and more.
Dancing under the direction of kumu Rob Ke’ano Ka’upu IV and Lono Padilla, Carr’s victory is the first for the Kalihi-Kai halau, which only opened its doors in 2008.
Runner-up Brylyn Noelani Aiwohi of Halau Ka Lei Mokihana, was just 11 points behind Carr. The Kauai dancer won the OHA Hawaiian Language Award in a tiebreaker.
VIDEO: Kayli Kaiulani Carr’s performance
VIDEO: Highlights of the 2016 Merrie Monarch Festivals