The Art of Hula: More Than Just a Dance, a Living Story of Hawaii

Hula is far more than just a dance; it’s a living, breathing narrative of Hawaiian history, culture, and spirituality. It’s a vibrant expression of the islands’ soul, passed down through generations. To truly understand Hawaii, you must understand hula.

The Origins of Hula: Echoes of Creation

The exact origins of hula are shrouded in the mists of time, but legend tells us that it was born on the island of Moloka&699;i. Hawaiian mythology attributes its creation to the goddess Laka, the deity of the hula forest. She is said to have birthed the first hula in honor of her sister, Hi&699;iaka, who was preparing to dance for the volcano goddess Pele. It’s a story of creation, family, and honoring the powerful forces of nature. This sacred connection means that every hula performance is, in essence, a prayer, a story brought to life through movement, chant, and music.

Early hula was deeply religious. It served as a way to honor gods and goddesses, to commemorate chiefs and ali’i (royalty), and to preserve important historical events. These performances, known as hula kuahu, were intensely spiritual experiences, held in dedicated spaces called heiau (temples). Dancers, carefully chosen and rigorously trained, underwent extensive preparation. They observed strict dietary restrictions and underwent purification rituals to ensure they were in a state of pono – balance and harmony – before performing. The chants, or oli, that accompanied the dance were powerful and resonant, carrying the weight of ancestral knowledge and spiritual power. The oli wasn’t just spoken; it was a form of communication with the divine.

Two Main Styles: Hula ‘Auana and Hula Kahiko

Hula has evolved over centuries, branching into two primary styles: Hula Kahiko (ancient hula) and Hula ‘Auana (modern hula). Understanding the difference is key to appreciating the richness of the art form.

Hula Kahiko: The Dance of Tradition

Hula Kahiko is the older, more traditional form. It’s characterized by its powerful, often dramatic movements, its chanting (oli) in the Hawaiian language, and the use of traditional instruments like the ipu heke (double gourd drum), the pahu (sharkskin drum), the ‘ili’ili (smooth stones), and the uli’uli (feathered gourds). The costumes are often made from natural materials, such as kapa (tapa cloth), leaves, vines, and feathers. The movements in hula kahiko can be vigorous and energetic, reflecting the natural world. They might mimic the swaying of trees in the wind, the crashing of waves on the shore, or the flight of birds across the sky. The stories told through hula kahiko are often epic tales of gods and goddesses, legends of chiefs and heroes, and historical accounts of important events. It’s not just a performance, it’s a historical record preserved through movement and voice.

For instance, one might witness a hula kahiko performance telling the story of Pele, the volcano goddess, portraying her fiery temper through sharp, powerful movements and intense chanting. Another might tell the tale of Maui, the demigod, using rhythmic steps and gestures to depict his feats of strength and cunning.

Hula ‘Auana: The Dance of Today

Hula ‘Auana is a more modern style that developed after Western contact. It’s characterized by its graceful movements, its use of Western instruments like the ukulele, guitar, and bass, and its use of Hawaiian songs (mele) with lyrics that often blend Hawaiian and English languages. The costumes in hula ‘auana are typically more elaborate, often featuring colorful dresses or skirts (pa’u), and leis made of flowers or shells. The movements in hula ‘auana tend to be softer and more flowing than those in hula kahiko, focusing on elegance and beauty. The stories told through hula ‘auana are often about love, nature, and the beauty of the Hawaiian islands. It adapts to express contemporary feelings and experiences, while still honoring its roots.

Imagine a hula ‘auana performance set to a sweet ukulele tune, with dancers swaying gently as they tell a story of love and longing. Or a performance depicting the breathtaking beauty of a Hawaiian sunset, with dancers using flowing movements to mimic the colors of the sky and the gentle lapping of the waves.

The Language of Movement: Hands That Tell Stories

One of the most distinctive features of hula is its expressive hand gestures. Each gesture, or hana, has a specific meaning, contributing to the narrative being told. These gestures are not arbitrary; they are a codified language, passed down through generations. Like sign language, each hana conveys a particular word or concept.

Here are a few basic examples of hand gestures and their meanings:

• Aloha: Extended hand, palm facing forward, often accompanied by a gentle swaying motion. It means love, affection, compassion, and greeting, a way to express the deep feeling and emotion.
• Pua (Flower): Cupped hands, mimicking the shape of a blooming flower.
• Ua (Rain): Fingers fluttering downwards, representing falling raindrops.
• Mauna (Mountain): Hands forming a peak, representing a mountain.
• Kai (Sea): Waving hands, representing the ocean waves.

Learning these basic gestures is like learning a few words in a new language. It allows you to start to understand the story being told through the dance. Watching a skilled hula dancer tell a complex story through hand gestures is truly captivating. It’s like reading a poem written in movement.

The Importance of Mele: Songs That Carry History

The mele (song) is an essential part of hula. It provides the narrative framework for the dance, dictating the story being told and setting the emotional tone of the performance. The mele serves as the backbone of the hula, carrying the story and providing the emotional context for the movements. Without the mele, the hula would be just movements without meaning. Traditionally, the mele was memorized and passed down orally, preserving the history, genealogy, and cultural values of the Hawaiian people. Today, many mele are also written down, but the oral tradition remains strong, ensuring that the songs are sung and understood in their original context.

Choosing the right mele is crucial. Dancers consider the story, the emotions it evokes, and the appropriateness of the mele for the occasion. Some mele are sacred, reserved for religious ceremonies, while others are more lighthearted and suitable for entertainment purposes. Matching the dance to the mele requires a deep understanding of both art forms, ensuring that the movements and the lyrics work together to create a cohesive and compelling performance.

There’s a profound sense of connection to the past when performing a mele. It’s a way to honor ancestors, to preserve cultural traditions, and to share the beauty and richness of Hawaiian culture with the world.

Instruments of Hula: Rhythms of the Land

The instruments used in hula are integral to creating the rhythm and atmosphere of the dance. Each instrument has its unique sound and role in the ensemble, contributing to the overall beauty and power of the performance.

• Ipu Heke: A double gourd drum, made by joining two gourds together. It is played by striking the bottom gourd against the floor or with the hand. It provides a rhythmic pulse and is considered one of the most important instruments in hula kahiko.
• Pahu: A sharkskin drum, made from a hollowed-out tree trunk and covered with sharkskin. It is considered a sacred instrument and is often used in religious ceremonies. Its deep, resonant sound adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the performance.
• ‘Ili’Ili: Smooth, water-worn stones, held in each hand and clicked together to create a percussive sound. They add a delicate, rhythmic layer to the music.
• Uli’Uli: Feathered gourds, filled with seeds or pebbles. They are shaken to create a rattling sound. They are often used in hula ‘auana and add a festive, celebratory element to the performance. The feathers are made from natural dyed feathers and natural coconut base.
• Ukulele: A small, four-stringed instrument that resembles a guitar. It is a more modern instrument, commonly used in hula ‘auana, and adds a sweet, melodic element to the music.

The rhythms created by these instruments are often complex and intricate, reflecting the natural world. They might mimic the sound of rain falling on leaves, the crashing of waves on the shore, or the rustling of wind through the trees. Learning to play these instruments requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of Hawaiian culture. It is a way to connect with the land and the history of the islands.

Costumes of Hula: Adornments of Meaning

The costumes worn by hula dancers are more than just adornments; they are integral parts of the performance, adding to the visual impact and conveying meaning. The style and materials used in the costumes vary depending on the type of hula being performed and the story being told.

In Hula Kahiko, the costumes are often made from natural materials, such as kapa (tapa cloth), leaves, vines, and feathers. Dancers may wear skirts made of ti leaves or leis made of shells and seeds. The use of natural materials reflects the close connection to the land and the spiritual nature of the dance. The colors used in the costumes also have meaning, with certain colors associated with specific gods or goddesses. For example, red is often associated with Pele, the volcano goddess, while yellow is associated with Laka, the goddess of hula.

In Hula ‘Auana, the costumes are typically more elaborate, often featuring colorful dresses or skirts, and leis made of flowers or shells. The dresses are often made of silk or rayon and may be adorned with intricate designs. Leis are an essential part of the costume, made from a variety of flowers, shells, or feathers. The lei is a symbol of love and respect and is often given as a gift or worn for special occasions.

Making a hula costume requires skill, creativity, and a deep understanding of Hawaiian culture. The materials used are often carefully chosen for their beauty, durability, and symbolic meaning. The process of making a costume is often a collaborative effort, with dancers working together to create costumes that are both beautiful and meaningful.

Learning Hula: A Journey of Discovery

Learning hula is a journey of cultural immersion, a way to connect with the history, language, and spirituality of Hawaii. It’s not just about learning the steps; it’s about understanding the meaning behind the movements, the stories behind the songs, and the cultural values that underpin the art form. Finding a reputable kumu hula (hula teacher) is crucial. Look for a teacher with a strong lineage and a deep understanding of Hawaiian culture. A good kumu hula will not only teach you the steps but also the history, language, and cultural context of the dance. Be prepared to commit time and energy to your studies. Learning hula is a lifelong journey, and it requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn from others. Respect the traditions and protocols of the hula. Hula is a sacred art form, and it should be treated with respect and reverence.

Practical Tips: Look for hula schools and halau (hula groups) in your area. Many community centers and cultural organizations offer introductory classes for beginners. Immerse yourself in the culture. Attend hula performances, listen to Hawaiian music, and learn about the history and traditions of the islands. Practice regularly. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become in your movements. Be patient and persistent. Learning hula takes time and effort. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Just keep practicing and learning, and you will eventually succeed.

The cost of hula lessons can vary depending on the location, the kumu hula, and the length of the class. However, it is generally an affordable activity. Many halau offer scholarships or tuition discounts for students who need financial assistance, but this depends on the instructor and if they have any programs.

Hula in Modern Hawaii: A Continuing Legacy

Hula continues to thrive in modern Hawaii, playing a vital role in preserving and perpetuating Hawaiian culture. It is performed at festivals, cultural events, and luau, providing entertainment and education for both locals and visitors. It’s also an integral part of many family gatherings, celebrations, and community events, reinforcing the importance of culture and tradition in everyday life.

The Merrie Monarch Festival, held annually in Hilo, Hawai’i Island, is the world’s most prestigious hula competition. It attracts halau from all over the world, showcasing the beauty and artistry of hula to a global audience. Winning the Merrie Monarch Festival is a great honor, signifying excellence in hula and dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture.

Hula is also being used as a tool for education, cultural preservation, and healing. It is taught in schools and universities, helping students to learn about Hawaiian history, language, and culture. It is also used in therapeutic settings to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It can be a powerful way to connect with one’s heritage, to express oneself creatively, and to find healing and wholeness. Organizations like the Kamehameha Schools promote Hawaiian cultural identity and provide opportunities for future generations of dancers.

Experiencing Hula: Where to See a Performance

If you’re visiting Hawaii, there are many opportunities to experience hula firsthand. From small, intimate performances at local restaurants to grand-scale productions at resorts and cultural centers, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few suggestions on how to experience the dance and the best place to see it.

• Luau: Many luaus offer hula performances as part of their entertainment. While these performances may not be as authentic as those seen at cultural events, they provide a good introduction to the art form. While the food is more generalized, the Old Lahaina Luau on Maui is one of the best reviewed.
• Cultural Centers: The Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu offers a variety of hula performances representing different Polynesian cultures. It’s an immersive experience.
• Festivals and Events: Check local event listings for hula performances at festivals, cultural events, and community gatherings. These performances are often more authentic and offer a deeper understanding of the art form.
• Smaller Venues: Look for smaller performances at local restaurants, bars, and community centers. These performances can be more intimate and offer a chance to connect with the dancers and musicians on a personal level.

When attending a hula performance, be respectful of the dancers and the cultural traditions being represented. Dress modestly, avoid talking during the performance, and show your appreciation by clapping at the end of each number. Remember, hula is more than just entertainment; it’s a sacred art form that should be treated with reverence.

FAQ Section

What is the difference between hula kahiko and hula ‘auana?

Hula Kahiko is the ancient, traditional form of hula, characterized by its powerful movements, chanting, and use of traditional instruments. Traditionally it’s very sacred, and the instruments are often considered spiritual. Hula ‘Auana is a more modern form of hula, characterized by its graceful movements, use of Western instruments, and Hawaiian songs with English lyrics. It’s become more contemporary and is more often performed in a casual setting. The term ‘auana translates to wandering or straying.

What is a kumu hula?

A kumu hula is a hula teacher or master. The word kumu translates to ‘source of knowledge’ and is a highly respected position in Hawaiian culture. Kumu hula have undergone years of rigorous training and are responsible for preserving and passing on the traditions of hula.

How can I learn hula?

You can learn hula by taking classes at a hula school or halau. Look for a reputable kumu hula with a strong lineage and a deep understanding of Hawaiian culture. Alternatively, you can also find introductory classes and workshops at community centers and cultural organizations.

What should I wear to a hula lesson?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Many hula schools require students to wear a skirt or pa’u, but you can check with your kumu hula for specific dress code requirements. Avoid wearing jewelry or anything that might distract from your movements.

Is hula only for women?

No, hula is for both men and women. In ancient times, men also performed hula, and there are many halau today that welcome male dancers. Men’s hula is often more energetic and powerful than women’s hula, but both styles are equally valued and respected.

What is the significance of a lei in hula?

A lei is a garland of flowers, shells, or feathers that is worn around the neck or head. In hula, the lei is a symbol of love, respect, and honor. It is often given as a gift or worn for special occasions. The materials used to make a lei also have symbolic meaning, with certain flowers or shells associated with specific gods or goddesses.

Can I take pictures or videos during a hula performance?

It is generally acceptable to take pictures or videos during a hula performance, but it is always best to ask permission beforehand. Be respectful of the dancers and avoid using flash photography, which can be distracting. Some performances may have specific rules regarding photography or videography, so be sure to check with the organizers beforehand.

References

Barrere, D. B. (2010). Hula: Historical perspective. Topgallant Publishing.

Kanahele, E. T. (1979). Hula as poetry. Kamehameha Schools Press.

Tatar, E. (1993). Hula Pahu: Hawaiian drum dances. Bishop Museum Press.

Ready to Discover the Soul of Hawaii?

Don’t just be a tourist, be a traveler. Dive deeper than the beaches and the sunshine. Seek out a hula performance, take a lesson, or simply learn more about this beautiful and powerful art form. By understanding hula, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the spirit of Aloha and the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. Let the stories of hula touch your heart and inspire your soul – discover the living story of Hawaii today!