Here is an exciting opportunity to experience a rare form of hula not widely practiced today. Hula kiʻi features the use of carved or crafted images in the story telling and movements of hula. Due to Western influences in the 19th Century, the hula kiʻi and other indigenous traditions were suppressed almost out of existence. Kumu Hula Māhealani Uchiyama of Hālau Ka Ua Tuahine, in association with Kumu Hula Kiʻi Mauli Ola Cook (holder of the lineal tradition of Kumu Nona Beamer and Kauaʻi alakaʻi of Kumu Hula Victoria Holt Takamine), Kumu Hula Maile Loo-Ching who leads the non-profit Hula Preservation Society, and Kumu Hula Auliʻi Mitchell of Hālau ʻo Kahiwahiwa who is an expert in carved forms and kiʻi innovation, will present this unique art form in Honolulu. The project encompasses the research of classical themes, the construction of hula puppets, and the development of a dedicated hula ki’i practice within the Berkeley-based hālau. The resultant performance is Wai Ola, ʻAukele and the Waters of Life, A Celebration of Hula Kiʻi. ʻAukele is a Hawaiian folk hero who faces many challenges including a perilous sea voyage and his jealous brothers. The story also centers on themes of water, its value, and who controls access, present issues in both California and Hawaiʻi.i. In the Tenney Theatre at St. Andrews Cathedral. Discount available to seniors (65+), youth (18 and under). Group discount available for halau (10+ tickets). More info: WAI OLA – ʻAUKELE AND THE WATERS OF LIFE Tickets, Honolulu | Eventbrite
You might also like: Hawaiian hula dance: where to see & learn hula (hawaiionthecheap.com)
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