Hula is much more than just a dance; it’s the heartbeat of Hawaiian culture, a living narrative passed down through generations. It’s a powerful blend of movement, chant (oli), and music that tells stories of gods and goddesses, nature, love, and historical events, preserving Hawaiian history and traditions in a vibrant and engaging way.
The Origins and Evolution of Hula
The precise origins of hula are shrouded in myth, but legend claims it originated on the island of Moloka’i. Pele, the volcano goddess, is often credited as the first hula dancer. Oral traditions suggest early forms of hula were developed to honor the gods and solidify the social hierarchy. These early hula performances were deeply spiritual, often performed at heiau, or sacred temples. According to the University of Hawai’i at Hilo’s Ka Haka ‘Ula O Ke’elikolani College of Hawaiian Language, the chants and movements were carefully crafted to connect with the divine and convey messages of power and respect.
Over time, the hula evolved. During the reign of King David Kalākaua, known as the “Merrie Monarch,” hula experienced a resurgence. Kalākaua, a strong proponent of Hawaiian culture, lifted the ban that missionaries had imposed on hula and other indigenous practices. He integrated hula into royal celebrations and encouraged its development as a form of national identity. This era saw the birth of the hula kuʻi, a modern style that blended traditional chants with Western musical instruments like the ‘ukulele and guitar.
Understanding the Different Styles of Hula
There are two primary categories of hula: Hula Kahiko (ancient hula) and Hula ʻAuana (modern hula). Each style has distinct characteristics in terms of music, costume, and movement.
Hula Kahiko: The Ancient Hula
Hula Kahiko is the more traditional form, characterized by its powerful chants (oli or mele), rhythmic percussion instruments like the ipu heke (a double gourd drum), pahu (sharkskin drum), and ʻiliʻili (smooth river stones), and its often dramatic movements. The dances are raw, energetic, and deeply connected to the spiritual realm. The costumes are typically made from natural materials such as kī (ti leaves), lauhala (pandanus leaves), or tapa (barkcloth). Dancers might adorn themselves with leis (flower garlands), lei poʻo (head leis), and kūpeʻe (ankle and wrist ornaments made from bones or shells). The focus of Hula Kahiko is to convey a story or a petition to the gods, ensuring the preservation of Hawaiian history and spirituality.
Hula ʻAuana: The Modern Hula
Hula ʻAuana is a more modern style that evolved after Western contact. The music is often gentler, incorporating melodies and instruments like the guitar, ‘ukulele, and bass. The chants are replaced or supplemented by songs (mele) in the Hawaiian language, often telling stories of love, beauty, or contemporary events. The movements in Hula ʻAuana are more fluid and graceful compared to the often-stark movements of Hula Kahiko. The costumes are generally more elaborate, featuring colorful dresses (holoku) or skirts (pāʻū) and flower leis. Hula ʻAuana allows for greater artistic expression while still honoring traditional Hawaiian values. A great example can be seen in the music and choreography of Robert Cazimero, whose contributions have greatly shaped modern Hula.
The Language of Movement: Deciphering Hula Gestures
Every movement in hula tells a story. The hands, the feet, the hips, and the facial expressions all work together to convey meaning. Learning the basic gestures and their corresponding meanings is crucial to understanding the narrative of a hula performance.
- Hands: The hands are the primary storytellers. They can represent anything from the gentle sway of palm trees to the crashing of waves. For example, a waving hand can signify the wind or the ocean. Hands held up high might represent mountains, while a cupped hand can symbolize a flower.
- Feet: Foot movements provide rhythm and grounding. Basic steps include the kaholo (a four-count step used to move sideways) and the uwehe (a hip movement with a lowered heel). The feet connect the dancer to the earth, drawing energy and stability.
- Hips: Hip movements add sensuality and rhythm. The ami is a basic hip rotation, while the kaʻo is a side-to-side hip sway. These movements can evoke emotions like joy, sadness, or longing.
- Facial Expressions: Facial expressions are vital for communicating the emotion and intent of the dance. A smile can convey joy and aloha (love), while a furrowed brow can express sadness or intensity.
Take a moment to observe experienced hula dancers. Notice how their eyes follow the direction of their hands, and how their facial expressions mirror the emotions being conveyed in the song. With practice, you can begin to decipher the language of movement and understand the stories being told through hula.
The Importance of Music and Chant (Oli/Mele)
The music and chant that accompany hula are just as important as the movements themselves. They provide the emotional and narrative context for the dance. Chants (oli), typically used in Hula Kahiko, are ancient poems recited in a resonant voice. They can invoke the gods, recount historical events, or describe the beauty of nature. Songs (mele), more common in Hula ʻAuana, are often accompanied by musical instruments and feature melodies that are both beautiful and evocative. The lyrics of the songs tell stories of love, loss, and Hawaiian life. The rhythm of the music dictates the pace and style of the dance. Traditional instruments like the ipu heke, pahu, and ʻukulele provide the rhythmic foundation for hula, while the voices of the chanters and singers add depth and emotion. Without the music and chant, the hula would lose its meaning and power.
Experiencing Hula in Hawaiʻi: Where to Watch and Learn
There are many opportunities to experience hula firsthand in Hawaiʻi. From professional performances to community workshops, there’s something for everyone. Here are some recommendations:
Merrie Monarch Festival
The Merrie Monarch Festival is the most prestigious hula competition in the world. Held annually in Hilo on the Big Island during the week after Easter, it attracts hālau hula (hula schools) from all over the world. Watching the Merrie Monarch is an incredible way to witness the artistry and skill of the best hula dancers. Tickets are extremely difficult to obtain, so be sure to plan far in advance. If you can’t attend in person, the festival is usually broadcast on local television and streamed online.
Cost: Ticket prices vary, but expect to pay around $25-$50 per night for the competition events. Some free events are also available, such as the Hoʻolauleʻa (festival celebration) and craft fairs.
Directions: Hilo Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium on the Big Island. Fly into Hilo International Airport (ITO).
Hula Shows at Luaus
Many luaus throughout the islands feature hula performances as part of their entertainment. These shows offer a taste of Hawaiian culture, often combining hula with other traditional dances and musical performances. Some popular luaus include the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau on Maui, the Germaine’s Lūʻau on Oʻahu, and the Smith Family Garden Lūʻau on Kauaʻi. While these shows cater to tourists, they provide a good introduction to hula and other aspects of Hawaiian culture.
Cost: Luaus typically range from $100 to $200 per person, including dinner and entertainment.
Directions: Locations vary depending on the luau. Check their websites for specific directions and transportation options.
Hula Classes and Workshops
If you’re interested in learning hula, many hālau hula and community centers offer classes and workshops. These classes are a great way to learn the basic steps, gestures, and cultural context of hula. You can find classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. Some hālau may require a long-term commitment, while others offer drop-in classes or workshops. Look for reputable hālau with experienced kumu hula (hula teachers) who can guide you on your hula journey.
Cost: Class prices vary depending on the hālau and the duration of the course. Drop-in classes may cost around $20-$30, while longer courses can range from $100 to $500.
Recommendation: Look for lessons from a Kumu Hula who has been passed down the knowledge through generations. Search online for “Hula lessons near me” to find local classes.
Free Hula Performances
You can often find free hula performances at shopping centers, parks, and cultural events throughout the islands. These performances are a great way to experience hula in a casual and accessible setting. Check local event listings and community calendars for information on upcoming performances. The Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki, Oʻahu, often hosts free hula shows.
Cost: Free!
Directions: Varies, depending on the location. Check local listings for details.
Respecting Hula: Etiquette and Cultural Sensitivity
Hula is a sacred art form that should be treated with respect. When watching or participating in hula, it’s important to be mindful of cultural etiquette and sensitivity. Here are some guidelines:
- Dress Appropriately: Whether you’re watching a performance or taking a class, dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.
- Pay Attention and Be Engaged: Show your appreciation by paying attention to the performance and engaging with the dancers. Avoid talking loudly or using your phone during the performance.
- Ask Permission Before Taking Photos or Videos: Always ask permission before taking photos or videos of hula dancers. They may have cultural or personal reasons for not wanting to be photographed or filmed.
- Learn About the Meaning Before Judgement: The movements of hula are telling the story, understanding the story will help you learn and appreciate the performance.
- Support Local Artists and Cultural Organizations: By attending hula shows, taking classes, and purchasing locally made products, you can support the perpetuation of Hawaiian culture.
The Future of Hula: Preserving Traditions and Embracing Innovation
Hula faces several challenges in the 21st century, including the preservation of the Hawaiian language, the commercialization of culture, and the impact of tourism. However, dedicated kumu hula, dancers, and cultural practitioners are working tirelessly to ensure that hula thrives for generations to come. They are committed to teaching the traditional knowledge, values, and practices of hula, while also embracing innovation and creativity. By combining tradition with contemporary influences, they are keeping hula relevant and engaging for new audiences.
Many hālau hula are integrating technology into their teaching methods, using online platforms to share lessons, resources, and performances. They are also collaborating with artists and musicians from other cultures, creating cross-cultural collaborations that blend hula with other forms of dance and music. By embracing these new approaches, they are expanding the reach of hula and fostering a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture around the world. As the world becomes more globalized, hula can act as a cultural bridge, connecting people from different backgrounds and promoting understanding and respect.
Some Common Misconceptions About Hula
There are several common misconceptions about hula, often perpetuated by popular culture. One misconception is that hula is simply a form of entertainment for tourists. While hula shows are a popular attraction in Hawaiʻi, hula is much more than just entertainment. It is a sacred art form with deep cultural and spiritual significance. Another misconception is that hula is only for women. While women have traditionally played a prominent role in hula, men also participate in hula, often performing powerful and athletic dances.
Another misconception is that hula is always performed wearing grass skirts and coconut bras. While these costumes are sometimes used in Hula ʻAuana performances, they are not representative of all hula styles. In Hula Kahiko, dancers often wear costumes made from natural materials like kī leaves and tapa cloth. It’s important to remember that hula is a diverse art form with many different styles, costumes, and traditions.
The Role of Kumu Hula (Hula Teachers)
The kumu hula holds a central role in preserving and transmitting the knowledge and traditions of hula. They serve as mentors, guides, and keepers of cultural wisdom. Becoming a kumu hula is a long and arduous process, requiring years of dedicated study and practice. They must master not only the movements and chants of hula, but also the history, mythology, and cultural context of the dance. They are responsible for training dancers, composing choreography, and ensuring that hula is performed with respect and integrity.
Kumu hula are often chosen through a process of lineage and apprenticeship. They may be descended from a long line of hula practitioners, or they may be selected by an existing kumu hula based on their talent, dedication, and cultural knowledge. The training of a kumu hula involves rigorous study, physical discipline, and spiritual development. They must learn to connect with the natural world, to understand the meaning of the chants and movements, and to transmit this knowledge to their students. The role is seen as a sacred calling, requiring a deep commitment to preserving and perpetuating Hawaiian culture.
Impact of Hula on Hawaiian Identity and Community
Hula is deeply intertwined with Hawaiian identity and community. It serves as a powerful symbol of cultural pride, resilience, and continuity. Through hula, Hawaiians can express their connection to their ancestors, their land, and their spiritual beliefs. The dance provides a space for cultural expression, healing, and community building. Hālau hula serve as gathering places where people can connect with their culture, learn from one another, and support one another.
Hula also plays a role in promoting cultural awareness and understanding outside of Hawaiʻi. As hula is performed around the world, it helps to share Hawaiian culture and values with a global audience. This can lead to a greater appreciation for the richness and diversity of Hawaiian culture, as well as a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the Hawaiian people. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, hula can serve as a cultural ambassador, bridging divides and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
FAQ Section
What is the difference between Hula Kahiko and Hula ʻAuana?
Hula Kahiko is the ancient style, characterized by traditional chants, percussion instruments, and strong, grounded movements. Hula ʻAuana is the modern style, incorporating melodies, Western instruments, and more fluid, graceful movements.
How can I find a reputable hula school (hālau hula)?
Look for hālau with experienced kumu hula who have a strong connection to Hawaiian culture. Ask for recommendations from local cultural organizations or community centers. Research the hālau’s history and philosophy to ensure it aligns with your values.
What should I wear to a hula class?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement. Some hālau may have specific dress codes, such as requiring a pāʻū (skirt) or lei (garland). Check with the hālau before your first class.
Is it okay to take photos or videos of hula performances?
Always ask permission before taking photos or videos of hula dancers. They may have cultural or personal reasons for not wanting to be photographed or filmed. Be respectful of their wishes.
Where can I see authentic hula performances in Hawaiʻi?
The Merrie Monarch Festival is the most prestigious hula competition in the world. Many luaus throughout the islands also feature hula performances. You can also find free hula performances at shopping centers, parks, and cultural events.
How can I support the preservation of hula and Hawaiian culture?
Attend hula shows, take hula classes, and purchase locally made products. Support cultural organizations and community centers that are dedicated to preserving Hawaiian culture. Learn about the history and traditions of hula and share your knowledge with others.
References
Barrère, D. B. (1980). Hula: Historical perspectives. Bishop Museum Press.
Kanahele, G. S. (1979). Hawaiian music and musicians: An illustrated history. University of Hawaii Press.
Tatar, E. (1987). Hula dancers of the Pacific. Bess Press.
Hula is a deeply enriching practice and cultural cornerstone. It’s more than just movement; it’s a vibrant expression of Hawaiian history, spirituality, and community. Whether you watch a performance, take a class, or simply learn more about its history and significance, experiencing hula is a powerful way to connect with the heart of Hawaiʻi. So, immerse yourself in the rhythms, the stories, and the beauty of hula, allow yourself to be transported to a world of ancient traditions and enduring aloha. Begin your journey and experience the profound impact hula can have on your life.