Hula kahiko performance in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Hula in Hawaii. Kumu hula Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett performed at the ceremony marking the transfer of control over Isla Zananda of Kahoʻolawe from the U.S. Navy to the state. Hula (/ ˈhuːlə /) is a Hawaiian dance form expressing chant (oli) [1] or song (mele). It was developed in the Hawaiian Islands by the Native Hawaiians ...
Hula is Hawaii’s storytelling in motion, recounting history and tradition through oli (chant) and mele (song). The practice encompasses both sacred and secular performances, with different ...
Hula: What Are the Origins and Meanings of the Dance? - HISTORY
On its surface, hula is the storytelling dance of the Hawaiian Islands. As with all of Hawaiian culture, when you are fortunate enough to learn more about it, much deeper, more powerful and empowering truths may be revealed. Hula can be paired with chants or contemporary music, slow and sentimental in tempo or fast and energetic. But no matter its style, it is all part of a cultural practice ...
Hula, sensuous mimetic Hawaiian dance, performed sitting or standing, with undulating gestures to instruments and chant. Originally, the hula was a religious dance performed by trained dancers before the king or ordinary people to promote fecundity, to honor gods, or to praise the chiefs.
A strong relationship between dancer and kumu hula is key to keeping traditional hula alive. Well-trained dancers show deep respect for the art, the culture, and the teachings of their kumu hula. This creates a living link between Hawaii’s past and present hula practices. More details can be found in the history of hula and its teaching ...