The ʻAʻa I Ka Hula Competition is to provide secondary school students with a dynamic platform to celebrate their achievements in mele, hula, and oli, while fostering a profound connection to Hawaiian culture and traditions through immersive place-based learning experiences.
Welcome to the ʻAʻa I Ka Hula Competition, a celebration of the richness of Hawaiian culture and the creative talents of our youth. This welcome packet is your guide for the exciting journey ahead, as we honor the traditions of hula, mele, and oli. We encourage participants to express their deep connection to their cultural heritage and the natural beauty of their surroundings through their performances.
ʻAʻa I ka Hula is inspired by the ʻōlelo noʻeau, ʻAʻa i ka hula, waiho ka hilahila ma ka hale, which translates to "When one wants to dance the hula, bashfulness should be left at home." This phrase encourages individuals, particularly our youth, to step into the world of hula with confidence and courage. It serves as a reminder that hesitation and self-doubt have no place in the dance. Whether one is a beginner or has some experience, this saying dares them to embrace the challenge, shedding any shyness and fully immersing themselves in the art of hula. Through this, our youth are empowered to grow, learn, and express themselves with the boldness that hula demands.