What is hula?
Hula is a dance and ceremony unique for the earliest inhabitants of Hawaii. Although there are other dances similar in parts of Polynesia, they are sufficiently different to state that Hula has developed in Hawaii.
Initial or old Hula style is called kahiko. It was accompanied by drum tools, such as drums made of gourd, coconut nuts and castenes made of gourd. The chant also accompanies Kahiko. Although most connect Hula with ukulele, only modern hula dance relies.
Kahiko was taken very seriously because it was a celebration or devotion of the gods. If it was incorrectly, it was believed that the dance could either trigger a anger of honor or to be invalidated by mistakes. Every movement of each Kahiko Hula dance is therefore very intentional and requires great skills.
The traditional costume of Kahiko Hula is a wrapped skirt for women and a lumbar for men. Both women and men left the chest bare, which caused missionaries to visit the islands to declare a hulu for sinful. In the Hawaiian religion, however, this aspect was not sinful or shameful, but only a part of the traditional way to carry out Kahiko.
Modern hula called is called auana hula '. However, many of them are significantly updated and can be used to tell the stories of Hawaii gods or legends. In addition to drum instruments, dancers often accompany ukulele, steel guitars and bass. The singing is less common, but the singing is quite common.
The costume may vary considerably. Women can dance in wrapped skirt, grass or elegant Hawaiian dress. But it is rare to see how women dance with bare chest in ‘Auana. Modern Hula can be made in Luaus or on special holidays. Guests in Hawaii can also take classes or get a chance to participate in the dance.
those who are not familiar with Hula are often in respect of the charm of movements. Most often they notice the hips, but the movements of the arms areBeautiful and expressive. Male dances are very athletic and emphasize acrobatic movements through grace.
Interest in Hula has touched all neighboring US states and many recreational centers now offer Hula courses. Private dance schools and local universities can also offer an introduction to Auana Hula. Many enjoy these classes and have found that the accuracy required in movements is actually a fantastic way to maintain physical fitness.