The Volcano Art Center’s 2016 Hula Kahiko series continues from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by Halau Hula O Kalaulani O Pu‘uanahulu, under the direction of kumu hula Stephanie Naomi Apolo.
The Volcano Art Center’s 2016 Hula Kahiko series continues from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by Halau Hula O Kalaulani O Pu‘uanahulu, under the direction of kumu hula Stephanie Naomi Apolo.
At the age of 4, Apolo began learning hula from hula master George Lanakilakeikiahi-ali‘i Naope and danced with him until his retirement. She continued dancing for other kumu, including Iwalani Kalima, Etua Lopez, Ray Fonseca, Francis Henry Pohukaina “Kaina” Keana‘aina, Raylene Ha‘alelea Lancaster and Hulali Solomon Covington.
In May 2012, Apolo started Halau Hula O Kalaulani O Pu‘uanahulu with seven girls. Today, she has a total of 24 keiki and recently started a Lokomaika‘i class. Her goal is to pass on the mana‘o taught by Uncle George; share the values she learned from the kupuna of Pu‘uanahulu; allow the girls to experience hula competitions and other memorable events; and travel to share what she loves — hula.
Saturday’s performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. For the series, hula halau from throughout Hawaii are invited to perform each month in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting at the kahua hula (platform) in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
These performances are presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats.
In conjunction with this hula kahiko performance, visitors are invited to join kumu hula Ab Valencia and members of Halau Hula Kalehuaki‘eki‘eika‘iu on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery as they share “Na Mea Hula” (all things hula). Come and learn a hula, use various hula implements and try lei making. This cultural demonstration is hands-on and family friendly.
These free events are supported in part by a grant from the County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development, the Hawaii Tourism Authority and individual funding from members of the Volcano Art Center’s ohana. National park entrance fees apply.
Anyone needing an auxiliary aid, service for effective communication or a modification of policies and procedures to attend in this event should call 987-7288 or email volcanohula@gmail.com.