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Photo: Maureen Regala (Grandma)
Intro
Ever since I was young Hula has been a part of my life. My grandmother, mother, aunts, and uncles all have done hula since they were little. It has been a sort of tradition in our family since my great-grandmother moved here from Hawaii.
I did hula when I was a young girl – before I got into basketball. I considered the lessons too slow and boring for my little wiggly self. At the time I wasn't really into Hula, I was too young to understand its importance to my family.
Now that I’m older, I can only wish that I stayed in Hula. Seeing my family perform at our gatherings always makes me emotional. Watching them makes me want to be a part of something so spiritual and connect with my family on that deeper level.
The Legends Behind Hula
Hula has been around for hundreds of years, causing the stories of how it came to be to vary.
There are many different stories on where the dance originated from. The Hawaiian people believe that the dance came from their Gods. Most of these stories consist of the Goddess creating the dance for or because of someone else.
It is said the Goddess Hi’iaka created the dance to please her hot-tempered sister; the goddess of volcanic fire. Pele begged her sisters to dance for her, Hi’iaka being the only one to step forward.
Painting: Arthur Johnson
Another legend claims that it was the fire goddess Pele herself who created the dance. The dance was the product of celebration for Pele escaping her other sister Namakaokaha’i, the goddess of the ocean.
Pele is both loved and feared by Hawaiian people. Pele’s resetting place is believed to be in one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Halemaumau Crater. Some believe hula was created for Pele to show their respect and for her entertainment.
Hulas Importance
Hawaiian people cherish Hula because it is a form of storytelling that has been passed down for many generations.
Before the Hawaiian people had a written language they used hula as a form of communication. Each dance held a story that was passed down for generations. It was a way of keeping the legends alive.
Hula is practiced almost every day in most Hawaiian households. It is performed for many different circumstances.
It can be used before and after prayers, for rituals, and blessings. They use oli (chants) at an altar to communicate with Laka (the goddess of forest growth and Hula).
Drawing: Louis Choris
Colonization Effects
Different cultural views cause a drift between hula and Hawaiian people.
In the late 1800s Christianity was introduced to Hawaiians. The two cultures had different views, resulting in Hawaiians who had converted to Christianity, seeing Hula as something shameful. Even going as far as banning it from being performed in public.
Even though it was made illegal by their Christian Queen, ka'ahumanu, Hawaiian people did not stand for this notion and continued to perform secretly. Hula had and always would be a part of their culture.
In a mere two years, the queen had passed and the law was lifted. However, hula had changed in tone. Instead of the traditional stories of ancient gods and island births, it focused more on the present. It boosted the image of the king and queen and spoke of Hawaii's beauty.
The Types Of Hula
Over time hula narrowed down to two main types.
Hula can be performed in different ways conveying different meanings. The common wavy hands represent waves and trees moving in the wind. But these movements can also represent emotions.
Throughout history, there have been many different types of Hula dances. However, currently, there are two main types of Dances; Kahiko & Auana.
Picture: Maureen Regala (Grandma)
Picture: Maureen Regala (Grandma)
Kahiko is the more traditional side of the dance. It was the main type before the monarchy ended. It was used to honor old chiefs and gods.
This style was the one used to pass down stories. Using the oral chants, oli, to convey these stories. Because this style is more traditional it is paired with more traditional instruments; Pahu Niu (a drum), bamboo sticks, & stones.
Picture: Maureen Regala (Grandma)
Picture: Maureen Regala (Grandma)
Auana is the more modern style of Hula. It is more popular with tourists and is the more familiar style to the public today.
This style was created during the integration period of Hawaii to the Western world. It is less formal than the Kahiko style (isn't used for ceremonies).
Aumana is accompanied by mele for song instead of oli for chants. As well as mele, Aumana is paired with stringed instruments such as ukuleles, guitars, and bass.
Conclusion
Hula isn't just a dance. Hula is a lifestyle, it is something that's on a higher spiritual level. It came from the gods, evolved over time, has come back from banishment, and has multiple types. Hula is a reward to those who participate in it. My family is blessed to have the opportunity to share these spiritual dances with our ancestors.
Images: Maureen Regala (Grandma)
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