Hula

Definition

Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance form characterized by hip movements, gestures, and chants or songs that convey stories and emotions. This dance is integral to Hawaiian culture, serving as a medium for storytelling, history, and spirituality while preserving the rich vocal traditions of Polynesia through its rhythmic movements and musical accompaniment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hula is not just a dance; it's an important cultural expression that includes rich storytelling through movement and music.
2. The two main styles of hula are Hula Kahiko (traditional) and Hula 'Auana (modern), each with its own distinct characteristics and performances.
3. Hula has its roots in ancient Hawaiian society where it was used in religious ceremonies and rituals to honor the gods.
4. The introduction of Western influences in the 19th century led to changes in hula, such as the incorporation of new instruments like the guitar and ukulele.
5. Today, hula is celebrated globally as a symbol of Hawaiian culture, with festivals and competitions that promote its preservation and evolution.

Review Questions

• How does hula serve as a means of storytelling within Hawaiian culture?
  • Hula serves as a powerful storytelling medium by using movement, gestures, and chants to convey narratives about history, nature, and spirituality. Each dance tells a specific story, where the choreography reflects the lyrics of the accompanying oli or mele. Through this art form, cultural values and historical events are preserved, allowing both performers and audiences to connect deeply with their heritage.
• Discuss the differences between Hula Kahiko and Hula 'Auana in terms of style and presentation.
  • Hula Kahiko is the ancient form of hula that emphasizes traditional chants, natural materials for costumes, and movements that connect dancers to their ancestors. In contrast, Hula 'Auana represents a modernized style influenced by Western music, incorporating instruments like guitars and ukuleles, with more fluid movements. These differences reflect the evolution of hula over time while maintaining its core cultural significance.
• Evaluate the impact of external influences on the development of hula since its origins in ancient Hawaiian society.
  • The development of hula has been significantly shaped by external influences, particularly during the 19th century when Western missionaries introduced new musical elements and instruments. This led to a blending of traditional hula with Western styles, resulting in Hula 'Auana. While some critics argue that this modernization dilutes traditional practices, others see it as an adaptation that keeps hula relevant in contemporary culture. The ability of hula to evolve while still honoring its roots illustrates its resilience as a living art form.

Related terms

oli:

Oli refers to the traditional Hawaiian chants that are often performed solo and are used in hula to convey meaning and emotion.

mele:

Mele are Hawaiian songs that accompany hula dances, often telling stories of love, nature, and historical events.

kahiko: Kahiko is the ancient style of hula that emphasizes traditional chants, costumes, and movements, connecting dancers to their ancestral roots.