Lilo

Lilo is a quirky, creative girl growing up in Hawaii. She loves Elvis, takes photos of tourists, feeds a fish named Pudge, and refuses to fit in with the other girls in her hula class. She adopts Stitch thinking he is a dog and teaches him about family through Elvis songs and Hawaiian traditions.

Personality for Dance

Lilo moves with offbeat energy. She is not graceful in a traditional way, and that is the point. She dances to her own rhythm, literally. When the other girls do matching hula, Lilo does something completely different. Her movement has heart and creativity even when it lacks polish. She stomps when angry, spins when happy, and freezes when something catches her attention. She is always watching, always thinking.

The Outfit

Top

Red muumuu dress with white leaf print, the iconic Lilo look. A simple A-line cut works best. The fabric should be lightweight cotton or similar for easy movement.

Bottom

The muumuu is a one-piece. Keep it knee-length for free movement. Built-in shorts underneath for floor work and bigger choreography.

Accessories

A flower in the hair, either a plumeria or hibiscus. A small camera around the neck for character moments. Optional: a stuffed Scrump doll (her handmade ragdoll] to carry in certain scenes.

Shoes

Bare feet if your stage allows it. This is Hawaii and Lilo is almost always barefoot. Otherwise, nude foot undies or tan jazz shoes.

Hair

Long, straight black hair worn loose. This is her signature look. Add a flower behind one ear.

Special Details

For hula scenes, a ti leaf skirt over the muumuu or a separate hula costume. A small boombox prop for the Elvis scenes adds character.

Movement Tips

Study basic hula hand gestures. Even simplified versions make the Hawaiian sections feel authentic.
Lilo dances with feeling, not precision. Let her be slightly off from the group and make it intentional.
When interacting with Stitch, use teaching gestures. She is patient but firm, like a little parent.
Elvis moves should be exaggerated and fun. She loves Elvis and dances like it.
Show the loneliness too. Moments where she watches other kids from a distance, arms wrapped around herself.

Age Recommendations

Best for ages 6-12. Lilo is perfect for a younger dancer with personality and the ability to be quirky without being self-conscious. The role celebrates being different, which makes it empowering for the right dancer.