Hawaii is a state with many traditions. Perhaps one of the most storied traditions is the hula. Hula dance in Hawaii has been around since the 19th Century. Although there are several points of view as to the origin of hula, everyone agrees that it was developed by the Polynesians who settled in Hawaii.
Hula dancing is meant to tell a story. Through chants, songs, and instruments, hula dancers portray an event that is important to the Polynesian culture. Chants typically tell stories of mythology or royalty. As the chant is spoken, hula dancers use their hands and body movements to bring the words to life. The songs performed during a hula dance generally, speak to significant events, or perhaps to display a particular emotion. The instruments that accentuate both the chants and the songs include guitars, bass, and a simple drum. The hula dancers can also carry instruments in their hands. These instruments can include gourd-like rattles topped with feathers, small black stones that are called Hawaiian castanets, and bamboo pipes that are of different lengths. Each length provides a different sound. These instruments provide for a full and rich hula experience.
Hula dance in Hawaii is typically performed as a part of a luau. Luau’s provide guests a Hawaiian experience that will create lasting memories. Guests are immersed in Hawaiian culture with the un-earthing of a roasted pig that has been cooking under the sand the entire day. Guests are then treated to an amazing buffet featuring foods native to the Hawaiian islands. Once the plates are taken away by the friendly wait staff, the entertainment begins. This is when you are taken away by either chant or song to the deep and rich Hawaiian culture. The dancers effortlessly portray the history of Hawaii through hula and through the costumes they wear. In some cases, hula dancers wear bells on their ankles to accentuate the movements and sounds as they tell their story.
Browse our website to learn more about the luau and hula experience. Once you have attended a luau and learned more about the history of Hawaii and the Polynesian culture, you will want to return again and again!
