The Volcano Art Center’s 2018 Hula Kahiko series continues at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 17 with a performance by Halau Ka‘eaikahelelani.
Halau Ka‘eaikahelelani is led by kumu hula Yuki Ka‘ea Lyons and Lily Lyons Dudoit. The Sisters come from a family of hula dancers and musicians and are proud to have the opportunity to carry on a legacy gifted to them by their mother, Sally Alohikea-Toko.
Their hula years span their lifetime, each with more than 35 years of experience. As students of Halau Na Lei ‘O Kaholoku, under the direction of kumu hula Nani Lim Yap and Leialoha Amina, the sisters have participated in the annual Merrie Monarch Festival and performed in Japan, New Zealand, Tahiti, Taiwan and throughout the mainland.
The Feb. 17 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. The 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.
Taking place in conjunction with the hula kahiko performance, visitors can join kumu hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe with Halauolaokalani from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery as they share with you na mea hula (all things hula).
Come and learn a hula, use various hula implements and try your hand at lei making. Guests will experience the different aspects that play an integral role in the life of the hula dancer. The cultural demonstrations are hands-on and family friendly.
The free events are supported in part by a grant from the Hawaii County Department of Research and Development and the Hawaii Tourism Authority, with individual funding from members of the Volcano Art Center’s ‘ohana. National park entrance fees might apply.
For more information, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222.