Hula
Hula Worldwide
Far more than just an enchanting style of dance, “Hula is the language of the heart, therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people,” said King Kalākaua.
Hula has long been held as a sacred way of communicating between peoples, the land, and the spirit of this place. Hula, in both its traditional (hula kahiko) and modern (hula ‘auwana) forms, can be a beautiful and empowering way to move your body and connect with the rich history of Hawaii. Hula can range from very gentle to more strenuous movements, and is wonderful for challenging your balance, coordination, and rhythm. Hula utilizes fluid, circular movements of the joints, particularly the hips and hands, which can improve your flexibility the more you practice. Not only is hula a beautiful way to honor Hawaiian culture and history, it’s also great for your health, raising your endorphins, and boosting your circulation as well as your spirit! Thousands of students around the world look to Kumu Mālia for their hula instruction. At Still & Moving Center, everyone, from keiki to kupuna, from babies and children to elders, can learn hula. Both Kumu Mālia and her protégé Doris Morisaki offer some of our hula classes online in Japanese. You can also schedule private hula instruction, such as for brides wanting to dance hula at their weddings.
Dedicated students earn the opportunity to join Kumu Mālia’s hula hālau (school) Nā Hula Ola Aloha, to learn some of the deeper practices of hula, and to travel to neighboring islands.
In addition to the art of Hawaiian dance, Kumu Mālia instructs her students in oli (Hawaiian chanting), playing of traditional Hawaiian instruments, such as the ipu (gourd drum) and the more modern ‘ukulele, as well as imparting many words and phrases of ‘õlelo Hawai’i (Hawaiian language). Hawaiian grace, gentleness and bright laughter suffuse all of our hula classes, online and in person.
We welcome hula students to perform at studio events such as our annual ‘May Day is Lei Day’ celebration, Merry & Bright, our Diwali Festival of Lights, Gandhi Peace Day and various community gatherings. Whether you are interested in our online hula classes, or you have been wanting to try oli chanting, we are happy to have you! Join us today.
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This post is also available in: 日本語 (Japanese)