The Volcano Art Center’s 2016 Hula Kahiko series continues at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani ‘E under the direction of kumu hula Iwalani Kalima.
The Volcano Art Center’s 2016 Hula Kahiko series continues at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani ‘E under the direction of kumu hula Iwalani Kalima.
Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani ‘E was founded in 1986 to coordinate cultural education programs that benefit Hawaii communities. Students in the halau range from keiki to kupuna and are taught all aspects of the hula tradition including the practice of traditional Hawaiian values.
Kalima was born and raised in Keaukaha Homestead in Hilo. Her hula roots stem back from her great-grandmother, Kapeka Kalima, who was a chanter for Queen Lili‘uokalani, and her grandfather, Joseph Nohea Kalima Sr., who composed the famous mele “Hilo Hula.” Iwalani Kalima began dancing at the age of 8 under the direction of Uncle George Lanakilakeikiahiali‘i Na‘ope.
She graduated (‘uniki) and received her na kumu palapala in 1982. Her role as a hula dancer, as well as a kumu hula, has taken her to Washington, Vermont, Los Angeles, Japan and Tahiti. Through the tutelage of Uncle George and her family’s upbringing, she developed a deep love for her culture and now devotes her time to continue the preservation of hula.
This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. For the series, hula halau from across Hawaii are invited to perform each month in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting at the kahua hula (platform) in the 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.
Held in conjunction with the Hula Kahiko performances, the public is invited to join Native Hawaiian culture specialist Loke Kamanu and her ohana as they set up shop from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery. Presenting a display of Na Mea Hula (all things hula), Kamanu will share a variety of instruments, implements and lei styles that play an integral role in the life of the hula practitioner. This 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 and the Hawaii Tourism Authority, and individual funding from members of the Volcano Art Center’s ohana. National park entrance fees may apply.
Visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222 for more information.