Volcano Art Center presents the first program in its 2019 Hula Kahiko series at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 12 with a performance by Na kumu hula Pelehonuamea Harman and Kekoa Harman with Halau I Ka Leo Ola O Na Mamo.
The students of Halau I Ka Leo Ola O Na Mamo come from the Hawaiian language immersion K-12 school Ke Kula ‘o Nawahiokalani‘opu‘u. For the past eight years, their mission has been to perpetuate the Hawaiian language and culture through mele and hula.
This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by Volcano Art Center as a part of its Hula Arts at Kilauea programming. For the Hula Kahiko 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.
Performances are presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine, without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun and/or rain gear and sitting mats.
In conjunction with the Hula Kahiko performances, the public is invited to join Native Hawaiian cultural specialist Loke Kamanu and ohana on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery for a Na Mea Hula (All Things Hula) demonstration. Learn a hula, use various hula implements or try your hand at lei making. These cultural demonstrations are hands-on and family friendly and occur from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Hula Kahiko performance days.
Performances are free, but park fees might apply.
For more information, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222.