You Say Goodbye, I Say Hula
Becoming a hula master involves more than simply learning how to sway like the waves, suggests Mimi Kirk's recent introduction to the world of hula in Smithsonian ("A Hip Tradition").
[T]he path to becoming a hula master is not universally agreed upon. Each hula school has its own particular steps and rituals. Several kumus seemed reluctant to describe these, instead uttering the Hawaiian proverb, "All knowledge does not come from one," when pressed about them. Dalire says students must study Hawaiian history, culture and language, as well as dance. Malama Chong, a protégé of Fonseca's, says lei-making and costuming are also important. In addition, students may be required to heed kapus (taboos), including abstinence and food restrictions. "It's a serious undertaking that requires years of training," Chong says.With no written language, hula chants were used to transmit history, genealogy, and mythology from generation to generation. After evolving from centuries-old ceremonial tradition to kitschy tourist attraction, hula is today taught and practiced in both its old-school kahiko variation, with drums and chanting, and modern 'auana manifestations, with ukuleles, grass skirts, and sometimes expensively designed costumes. These Ka Pa Hula O Ka Lei Lehuamale kahiko dancers performed at last year's "Olympics of Hula," the Merrie Monarch competition held each spring. The festival is named after King David Kalakaua, AKA the Merrie Monarch. Kalakaua ruled Hawaii from 1874 to 1891 and restored many of the cultural traditions that had been banned by missionaries. The group Hula Halau O Lilinoe performs hula 'auana here. This year's overall victor was the male group Halau I Ka Wekiu; watch their winning flamenco-influenced 'auana here.
Japan's entry in this year's Academy Awards, Hula Girls (trailer here) depicts rural Japanese girls learning the hula. And if traditional hula dancing is too culturally unfamiliar, you can always stick to hula hoops.