Learn to Hula: Immerse Yourself in Hawaiian Dance Traditions

Want to experience Hawaii on a deeper level? Forget just lounging on the beach and instead dive into the culture by learning to hula! Hula isn’t just a dance; it’s a story, a prayer, a connection to the land and the ancestors. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start your hula journey in Hawaii.

What is Hula, Really? It’s Much More Than You Think!

Before we talk about classes and locations, let’s understand what hula truly represents. It’s a dance form that combines graceful hand movements, rhythmic hip sways, and powerful storytelling. Every movement, every gesture, has meaning. It’s not just about looking pretty; it’s about conveying emotions, history, and reverence.

There are two primary types of hula: Hula Kahiko (ancient hula) and Hula ‘Auana (modern hula). Hula Kahiko is the older, more traditional form, often accompanied by chants and percussion instruments like the ipu heke (a double gourd drum) and the pahu (a sharkskin drum). The movements are often more powerful and grounded. Hula ‘Auana, on the other hand, evolved with Western influence and is typically accompanied by ukulele, guitar, and other melodic instruments. It’s generally more lyrical and graceful.

The word “hula” itself simply means “dance” in Hawaiian. But its significance extends far beyond mere physical expression. It was, for centuries, a vital component of Hawaiian oral tradition, preserving genealogies, legends, and cultural practices. Because written language came relatively late to Hawaii, hula served as a living archive. This is why it’s so important to approach learning hula with respect and a genuine desire to understand its cultural roots.

Finding the Right Hula School or Halau

The word “halau” means “school” in Hawaiian, but in the context of hula, it’s much more than that. It’s a community, a family, a place where kumu hula (hula teachers) pass down their knowledge and the traditions of their lineage. Choosing the right halau is a crucial step in your hula journey.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Halau:

• The Kumu Hula’s Lineage and Reputation: A reputable kumu will have a strong connection to their own teachers and a deep understanding of hula traditions. Ask about their background and the history of their halau.
• The Style of Hula Taught: Do you prefer the ancient, powerful style of Hula Kahiko, or the more modern and lyrical Hula ‘Auana? Some halau specialize in one, while others offer both.
• The Halau’s Culture and Community: Visit a class or two and observe the interaction between the kumu and the students. Do you feel a sense of warmth and welcome? Is there a strong sense of community?
• The Class Schedule and Location: Does the schedule fit your availability? Is the location convenient for you to get to consistently?
• The Cost: Hula lessons vary in price. Some halau may have membership fees in addition to class fees. Be sure to clarify all costs upfront.

Where to Look for Hula Classes:

• Community Centers: Many community centers throughout Hawaii offer introductory hula classes at affordable prices. These are a great place to start if you’re unsure about committing to a full halau.
• Hotels and Resorts: Some hotels and resorts offer hula lessons as part of their activities program. These are often designed for tourists and provide a basic introduction to hula.
• Local Halau: This is the best option if you’re serious about learning hula. Search online for “hula halau ” or ask locals for recommendations. You can find many halau listed in local Hawaiian directories or newspapers.
• University of Hawaii (Continuing Education): The University of Hawaii system often offers hula classes as part of their continuing education programs.

Specific Examples and Recommendations:

• Oahu: One well-known halau on Oahu is Keolalaulani Halau ‘Olapa O Laka, led by Kumu Hula Aloha Dalire. While their intensive classes are often for serious students, they occasionally offer workshops open to the public. Another option is to check the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation for affordable classes.
• Maui: Maui is home to many excellent halau. Research reputable instructors online and read reviews. Contact the halau directly to inquire about introductory classes or workshops.
• Kauai: Look into workshops offered at cultural centers. Kauai offers a uniquely intimate setting for hula learning.
• Big Island: The Big Island, being the largest, has a wide range of options. Check community listings and inquire at local cultural events.

Practical Example: Finding a Class in Honolulu

Let’s say you’re staying in Waikiki, Honolulu and want to try a beginner hula class. Here’s how you might proceed:

1. Google Search: Start with a Google search like “beginner hula classes Waikiki.”
2. Check Yelp/TripAdvisor: See what other travelers have recommended. Pay attention to reviews that mention the instructor’s teaching style and the overall experience.
3. Check Honolulu Parks and Recreation Website: This often lists affordable classes at community centers.
4. Visit a Hotel or Resort Activity Desk: Many hotels offer introductory hula lessons for guests.
5. If you find a halau that interests you, contact them directly to inquire about their beginner classes, schedules, and fees.

Important Note: Don’t be afraid to try a few different classes before you find the right fit. It’s all about finding a kumu and a halau that you connect with.

What to Expect in Your First Hula Class

Okay, you’ve found a halau or a class that you’re excited about. What should you expect in your first hula lesson?

Attire and Etiquette:

• Respectful Attire: Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Avoid anything too tight or revealing. Many halau prefer students to wear a simple t-shirt and comfortable pants or a skirt above the knees. For women, a pa’u skirt (a long, flowing skirt traditionally used for hula) may be worn if you have one, but it’s usually not required for beginners.
• Bare Feet: Hula is almost always performed barefoot, so plan accordingly.
• Lei (Optional): Wearing a lei isn’t typically required for beginners, but it’s a beautiful way to show respect for the culture.
• Punctuality: Be on time for class. Arriving late is considered disrespectful.
• Respectful Attitude: Approach the class with humility and a willingness to learn. Listen carefully to the kumu’s instructions and ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.
• Silence Cell Phones: This is a must. And absolutely no recording without permission!

The Class Structure:

A typical hula class usually involves the following elements:

• Oli (Chant): Many classes begin with an oli, a Hawaiian chant that acknowledges the ancestors, the land, and the deities associated with hula.
• Basic Steps and Movements: You’ll learn the fundamental hula steps, such as the kaholo, the ka’o, and the hela. You’ll also learn basic hand gestures (lima) and their meanings.
• Hula Choreography: You’ll learn a short hula choreography to a specific song (mele). The mele will tell a story, and your movements will interpret that story through hand gestures and movements.
• Cool Down: A gentle stretching or cool-down period to end the class.

Important Tip: Don’t be intimidated if you don’t get it right away. Hula takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself, and focus on learning the basics. The joy is in the journey, not in achieving perfection. Every Kumu understands that new folks need to adjust. Your willingness to learn is what matters.

The Language of Hula: Understanding Key Terms and Concepts

To truly appreciate hula, it’s helpful to learn some of the key terms and concepts associated with it. This will deepen your understanding and enhance your experience.

• Kumu Hula: The hula teacher. They are the authority and the keeper of traditions. Respect for the Kumu Hula is paramount.
• Halau: The hula school or group. It’s a community of dancers and learners.
• Mele: A song, chant, or poem. Hula tells the story of the mele.
• Oli: A chant, often used to begin or end hula performances or classes.
• Pa’u: A hula skirt, traditionally made of tapa cloth or other natural materials.
• Lei: A garland of flowers, leaves, or shells, often worn for special occasions or as a symbol of greeting and aloha.
• Kaholo: A basic hula step, involving a side-to-side movement of the hips.
• Ka’o: Another basic hula step, involving a rocking motion of the hips.
• Hela: A basic hula step where one foot taps to the side.
• Lima: Hand motions. Each lima has a specific meaning. For example, a hand motion that resembles a wave might represent the ocean.
• Aloha: More than just a greeting, aloha embodies love, compassion, and respect. It’s the spirit of Hawaii.

Example: Interpreting Lima (Hand Gestures)

Imagine you are learning a hula about a rain shower. You might learn the following lima:

• Lima representing clouds: Hands held up high, fingers gently curved.
• Lima representing rain: Fingers wiggling downwards, like raindrops falling.
• Lima representing leaves: Hands shaped like leaves, gently swaying in the breeze.
• Lima representing the sun: Hands forming a circle, representing the sun’s warmth and light.

By combining these lima with the basic hula steps, you would be able to tell the story of the rain shower through dance.

Beyond the Classroom: Immersing Yourself in Hula Culture

Learning in a classroom is a great start, but truly immersing yourself in hula culture requires going beyond the classroom walls. Here are some ways to deepen your connection to hula outside of formal lessons:

• Attend Hula Performances: Look for local hula performances at festivals, cultural events, or even in hotels. Watch carefully and observe the movements, the costumes, and the emotions conveyed by the dancers.
• Visit Cultural Centers: Many cultural centers throughout Hawaii offer workshops, demonstrations, and exhibits related to hula and Hawaiian culture. The Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu is a popular choice, but there are many smaller, more intimate centers throughout the islands.
• Learn About Hawaiian History and Mythology: The more you understand about Hawaiian history and mythology, the more you’ll appreciate the stories told through hula. Read books, watch documentaries, and talk to local people to learn more.
• Listen to Hawaiian Music: Immerse yourself in the sounds of Hawaiian music. Listen to traditional chants, contemporary songs, and everything in between. Pay attention to the lyrics and the stories they tell.
• Talk to Local Hula Practitioners: If you have the opportunity, talk to local hula practitioners and ask them about their experiences. Learn about their connection to hula and the traditions they carry on. Be respectful and humble, and listen carefully to their stories.

Example: Attending the Merrie Monarch Festival

If you’re truly passionate about hula, consider attending the Merrie Monarch Festival on the Big Island. This prestigious annual event is a celebration of Hawaiian culture and features some of the best hula halau in the world. Getting tickets can be challenging, but even just experiencing the energy and excitement of the festival is an incredible experience.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to the Merrie Monarch Festival:

• Book Accommodation Well in Advance: Hilo, the town where the festival is held, gets extremely crowded during Merrie Monarch. Book your accommodation months in advance.
• Enter the Lottery for Tickets: Tickets to the main competitions are distributed through a lottery system. Check the Merrie Monarch website for details.
• Attend Free Events: Even if you don’t have tickets to the competitions, there are many free events to enjoy, including craft fairs, hula exhibitions, and cultural demonstrations.
• Respect the Culture: Remember that Merrie Monarch is a cultural event, not just a tourist attraction. Dress respectfully, be mindful of your behavior, and show aloha to the local community.

Hula and the Spirit of Aloha

Ultimately, learning hula is about more than just learning steps and movements. It’s about embracing the spirit of aloha – the love, compassion, and respect that are so central to Hawaiian culture. As you delve deeper into hula, you’ll find yourself connecting with Hawaii on a deeper level, appreciating its beauty, its history, and its people.

How Hula Embodies Aloha:

• Respect for the Land (Aina): Many hula dances celebrate the beauty and abundance of the Hawaiian Islands.
• Connection to the Ancestors (Kupuna): Hula honors the ancestors and preserves their stories and traditions.
• Community (Ohana): Hula halau are like families, supporting and nurturing each other.
• Love and Compassion: Hula is a way to express emotions and share stories of love, loss, and hope.

By learning hula, you’re not just learning a dance; you’re learning a way of life.

FAQ Section

Q: Is it okay for non-Hawaiians to learn hula?

A: Absolutely! Anyone with a genuine interest and respect for the culture is welcome to learn hula. However, it’s crucial to approach it with humility and a willingness to learn from a qualified kumu hula. Remember that hula is more than just a dance; it’s a cultural practice, and it should be treated with respect.

Q: Do I need to speak Hawaiian to learn hula?

A: While you don’t need to be fluent in Hawaiian, learning some basic Hawaiian words and phrases will definitely enhance your understanding and appreciation of hula. Your kumu hula will likely teach you the meanings of the words in the mele (songs) you’re dancing to.

Q: What if I’m not a “natural” dancer? Can I still learn hula?

A: Absolutely! Hula is for everyone, regardless of their natural talent or dance experience. The most important thing is to have a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Your kumu hula will guide you through the steps and movements, and with practice, you’ll improve over time. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – that’s how we learn!

Q: What are the best islands for learning hula?

A: All of the Hawaiian Islands offer opportunities to learn hula. Oahu has the most options in terms of halau and classes, but you can find excellent teachers on Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island as well. The best island for you will depend on your personal preferences and travel plans.

Q: How much do hula lessons typically cost?

A: The cost of hula lessons can vary depending on the halau, the location, and the type of class. Introductory classes at community centers or hotels may be relatively inexpensive, while lessons at established halau can be more costly. Some halau may also have membership fees. It’s best to contact the halau directly to inquire about their fees.

Call To Action

Ready to take the plunge and immerse yourself in the beautiful world of hula? Don’t just observe Hawaiian culture from afar – become a part of it! Research local halau, attend a beginner’s class, and feel the rhythm and spirit of aloha move through you. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or have never taken a dance class in your life, hula offers a unique and enriching experience that will connect you to the heart of Hawaii. Start your hula journey today and discover the magic for yourself!

References

• Amy Ku’uleialoha Stillman, Hula Nation: Defining Hawai’i’s Identity Through Dance (Duke University Press, 2008).
• “Hula,” GoHawaii.com (Hawaii Tourism Authority official website).