Hula Hoops: The Definition, History & How-To

The dance of the waves, the sighing of the wind, the grounding strength of ancient rhythms - this is the essence of Hula, the storied dance of the Hawaiian Islands. In the flow of these fluid, mesmerizing movements, one can glimpse a cultural heritage that is both ancient and timeless. But what exactly is this captivating art form?

Hula is a Hawaiian dance accompanied by chant or song that has been an essential part of Native Hawaiian culture for over 1,000 years. The word 'Hula' itself translates to 'dance' and is believed to have originated from the god 'Laka', the patron of hula. This multicultural dance form has evolved over centuries, incorporating a rich blend of Polynesian history, ancient mythologies, and everyday life experiences, all of which are reflected in its intricate choreography and accompanying mele (song).

Traditional Hula

Traditional or ancient Hula, known as 'Kahiko', is often associated with the Islands' pre-contact era. This profound dance style preservees the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii, drawing heavily from myth, spirituality, and history. The dance is characterized by symbolic hand gestures, vibrant clothing, and elaborate adornments, all telling stories of Hawaiian folklore, genealogies, and nature.

Danced without instruments, Traditional Hula relies on the resonance of the voice, the rhythmic patting of dancers' hands, and the movement of the dancers themselves for its accompaniment. The 'Kumu Hula' (Hula teacher) plays a crucial role in transmitting these historically rich performances.

Ancient Hawaiian Chants

Dating back to pre-reading and writing times, chants are part of Hula's traditional roots. Often conducted in the native Hawaiian language, these chants narrate stories, pay tribute to Hawaiian deities, and transmit oral history. They are considered an integral part of Hula, adding depth and historical context to the dance's movements.

Chants can range from comparatively short, poetic compositions to extensive, complex genealogical narratives. They might include rhythmic repetition, onomatopoeia, and powerful, descriptive imagery that resonates with ancient Hawaiian culture.

Symbolism in Traditional Hula

Hula's meaning is derived from its symbolism. Each gesture, from hand movements to the sway of hips, can convey complex information about Hawaiian culture, nature, and the storytelling involved. For instance, a specific gesture might symbolize the trajectory of wind patterns, the swaying of coconut trees, or a Hawaiian god's descent onto the earth.

Through symbolic representation, Hula allows its practitioners to connect with their past, Staying rooted in these profound significances, contemporary Hula practitioners have been able to preserve and share an invaluable piece of Hawaiian heritage.

Modern Hula

Modern Hula, known as 'Auana', emerged soon after Hawaii's western contact and incorporates external influences like Western music and dance styles. Today, it is often associated with tourist attractions in Hawaii and consists of two categories: Hawaiian Authentic or Hawaiian positions, and partial Hawaiian or Hilo-type.

Hawaiian instruments like the ukulele, steel guitar, and 'ipu' (gourd drums) provide the musical backdrop for these dances, although songs in the native language can still accompany traditional hula movements. ‘Auana Hula often incorporates themes from everyday life, love, nature, and community events, as opposed to the more historical focus ofkahiko.

Hawaiian Authentic or Hawaiian positions

Hawaiian Authentic Hula maintains a strong traditionalawaii-based dance style. While sharing some similarities with the ancient form, it includes Western influences, such as orchestrations, harmonies, and dance movements that reflect cultural shifts. However, its adherence to authentic Hawaiian ingredients, including mele (song), hula (dance), 'oli (chant), and 'iau (traditional instruments), sets it apart.

In this form, hula dancers often wear traditional Hawaiian attire, including mu'umu'u dresses and malo (wrap-around loom-tapestry skirts). The dance could portrait contemporary happenings, landforms, and Hawaiian history.

Partial Hawaiian or Hilo-TypeAuana Hula

Hilo-type Auana Hula incorporates elements from different dancing styles. Traditional hand gestures and steps may incorporate movements from Spanish or Tahitian dance. It can involve varying degrees of Hawaiian authenticity, as outlined by the ‘Kumu Hula’ (Hula teacher).

While the Hilo-type Auana Hula boasts more flexibility in terms of movements, music, and attire, maintaining Hawaiian authenticity is still of paramount importance. This flexibility, however, has allowed it to appeal to a broader audience, growing into a popular choice for educational and cultural performances across Hawaii.

In the vibrant, expressive, and storytelling dance that is Hula, one witnesses not just a dance, but the spirit of Hawaii embodied. It meanders from the ancient, spiritual dance of Kahiko to the modern, syncopated rhythm of Auana, interleaving Hawaiian folklore, cultural practices, and the island lifestyle. It remains a testament to the rich, multicultural heritage of Hawaii and a medium for its preservation.