A Year of Hula, Knowledge & Growth

Hui, Aloha mai kākou!

Auē, a year has passed since my last blog entry, but in the rhythm of hula, time is a flowing tide—constantly moving, shaping, and carrying us forward. Though the days and months have gone by, each step we have danced, each mele we have chanted, and each story we have embraced has kept us deeply connected to our ancestors and the foundation of our hālau.

We have had an incredible year filled with performances that tested and strengthened us. As a kumu hula, these experiences pushed me to create and organize presentable performances that honor my hula legacy. It challenged me to refine our storytelling through movement and ensure that each hula lesson and presentation was a true reflection of my teachings.

For my haumana, these performances encourage dedication and a deeper understanding of the history and meaning behind the stories they danced. They worked hard to embody the emotions and messages woven into each mele, allowing them to accurately express these stories through their movements and expressions.

Keiki Hula Class

The "Keiki Hula" class has been diligently building their foundational skills, improving hula movements, and learning the names of each step. Alongside their physical training, they have been strengthening their ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, proudly counting, reciting colors, and singing as they dance. One of the most inspiring aspects of their progress has been their enthusiasm for chanting in Hawaiian. Many have even embraced the role of "Alakaʻi," stepping forward as leaders during these activities.

My intent for this class is to create a fun, enjoyable, and safe hula space where students can thrive while expanding their knowledge of Hawaiian culture and language. Seeing their excitement and eagerness to learn reaffirms the importance of nurturing both their technical skills and their deeper cultural connections.

Papa Wahine

The "Papa Wahine" class has been delving into the rich stories of Hawai‘i’s fire goddess, "Tutu Pele," and her sisters, especially the youngest among them, "Hi‘iakaikapoliopele." Through chants and dances, we have been exploring their incredible journey from their original home in Kahiki to their present residence in Halema‘uma‘u, the crater on the island of Hawai‘i. These lessons have deepened our connection to their powerful mo‘olelo and the sacred landscapes they embody.

These students have expressed great excitement in learning this new knowledge and are eager to expand their understanding even further. They have come to see hula as more than just a dance—it is a vessel for cultural connection and personal growth. Through these stories, they recognize the significance of hula in guiding them on their own cultural journeys, reinforcing their appreciation for the traditions we uphold.

As we enter this new chapter, I am excited to share the journey that has brought us here and the path that lies ahead. We have new mele to learn, new stories to tell, and new ways to deepen our understanding of our kuleana as custodians of hula. This space will continue to be a place to reflect, to remember, and to celebrate all that hula continues to teach us.

Mahalo for being a part of this journey. Let’s continue forward, one step, one heartbeat at a time.

Me ke aloha pumehana,

Kumu Kawahine

Glimpse of our Dance Recital Dress Rehearsal