Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani ‘E to perform hula kahiko

Volcano Art Center will present a hula kahiko performance at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, featuring Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani ‘E.

Hula halau from across Hawaii and beyond have been invited to perform each month in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting at the kahua hula (platform) at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, not far from the VAC Gallery.

This special site was realized through the vision of (the late) pre-eminent hula master Edith Kanaka‘ole, kumu hula of Halau o Kekuhi. The kahua hula is located just a short walking distance from the gallery in an area known as Ka‘auea. This sacred spot affords the kumu and haumana (student) a pristine view into Halama‘uma‘u, home of goddess Pelehonuamea.

Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani ‘E was established in 1986 under the direction of Kumu Hula ‘Iwalani Kalima to perpetuate the ancient art of hula, as well as the modern style.

Kalima was born and raised in Keaukaha Homestead in Hilo. Her hula roots stem from her great-grandmother, Kapeka, who was a chanter for Queen Lili‘uokalani, and her grandfather, Joseph Nohea Kalima Sr., who composed the famous mele “Hilo Hula.” She began dancing at 8 years old, under the direction of Uncle George Lanakilakeikiahiali‘i Na‘ope.

She graduated at her uniki and received her na kumu palapala in 1982. Her role as a dancer, as well as a kumu hula, has taken her to Washington, Vermont, Los Angeles, Japan and Tahiti. Through the tutelage of Na‘ope and her family’s upbringing, she developed a deep love for her culture and now devotes her time to continue the preservation of hula.

The performance will be presented authentically in a natural setting, rain or shine, without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats. National Park entrance fees apply.

This free event is supported in part by a grant from the county Department of Research and Development and the Hawaii Tourism Authority.