This is often what I hear when I tell people I dance hula. Of course being over 5,000 km away from Hawai’i, this is a natural reaction. But when studying hula, practicing and you get swept up in telling the story, Hawai’i doesn’t seem so far away.
There is a lot more to hula than a lot of people realize.
There is an ancient style called kahiko, that uses chant and implements. It can be very strong and grounded. It is often more masculine because at one time, it was only done by males.
The modern style, called ‘auana, is done to music and song. It can be graceful, playful and breathtaking. It uses instruments such as ukulele, piano and steel guitar. Hapa haole hula is hula that is done to songs with a Hawaiian melody but sung in English.
There are also noho or sitting hula. These hulas can be kahiko or ‘auana. Now you may think that this type of hula would be easier, but that’s not always the case. Dancers may be sitting on their knees which can require a lot of stamina!
This is just a small glimpse into hula. There is so much more! You never stop learning and growing.
If you want to try it out, check out our classes. Everyone is welcome and we’d love to have you!
ʻAʻa i ka hula, waiho ka hilahila i ka hale.
When one wants to dance the hula, bashfulness should be left at home.
Aloha
Jen
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