Culture — July 29, 2009 17:32 — View Comments Written by: NEENZ

The Art of the Hula

Hula

The historic origins of the hula are as complex and graceful as the dance itself. The mythical stories vary and are specific to each island. Goddess Laka gave birth to the hula in Ka’ana on the island of Moloka’i where her remains are also buried. On the Big Island, legendary goddess Pele ordered her sisters to dance for her, and only Hi’iaka stepped forward to perform. Another tells of fiery Pele fleeing from her sister, Namakaokaha’i (the goddess of the oceans) and finding refuge on the isle of Hawaii. To express her gratitude of being far away from water, Pele danced a hula.

Photo by: Joe Philipson of Philipson Photography

As fascinating as the legends are, the more likely beginnings of the art of the hula were a form of communication between the Hawaiian people. A means of sharing stories between its people and generations, as well as in celebration and entertainment.

Unfortunately, unlike Captain James Cook and Albert de Chamisso, the Missionaries balked at the hula thus beginning the decline of its art in the Hawaiian culture. The dance became secret and hidden, and by 1851 public performances were allowed via licensing and performance fees. [Read more about the Missionaries and the Decline of Hula.]

Inspired by the efforts of King David Kalakaua and Princess Ruth Keelikolani to revive the traditional arts, Hawaii experienced a cultural renaissance in the late 1960’s. Interest in not only the hula, but Hawaiian language, music, history and awareness surged amongst the people. Heavily marketed as a tourist attraction, hula began returning to more traditional forms. [Read more about Hawaii's Cultural Renaissance.]

The are several different forms of hula each of which describes movement or position, but have been distinguished between two different categories: kahiko and ‘auana.

This is just an introduction to the art of hula. We will be featuring the kumu, historians, dancers, halau, implements, and events both locally and globally. If you’re a dancer, kumu, historian, or event organizer and would like to be featured on Hawaii Traditions, please let us know.

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