Volcano Art Center is hosting a new series of programs and performances that begin today.
Come to VAC’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village for a special forest tour or later in the day for a special hula ‘auana performance. The public is welcome to stay the entire day and also visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a free botanical printing demonstration.
The day kicks off with a special tour of the Niaulani old growth forest led by kumu Ryan McCormack from 9:30-11 a.m. Tour participants will meet at the VAC administrative offices and gallery at 19-4074 Old Volcano Road.
The tour will focus on topics including Hawaiian protocol for “asking permission” to enter the forest and gather plant material, traditional knowledge and uses of forest plants and local history and lore from the uniquely Hawaiian perspective. The tour also might include examples of traditional Hawaiian oli (chants) and hula that relate to the forest.
The tour is free and open to the public. Participation is limited, so call 967-8222 to reserve a spot.
McCormack is an ‘uniki ‘ai lolo of Unukupukupu, having completed his formal rites of passage under the tutelage of Taupouri Tangaro. He is kumu of Maunuunu and a lecturer at Hawaii Community College in Hilo. Originally from Waimanalo, Oahu, he now calls the Big Island home.
His ongoing passion for hula and community well-being has been supported by a lifetime of dancing and an educational journey that most recently culminated in a masters degree in depth psychology with an emphasis in Jungian and Archetypal Studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute.
A hula ‘auana performance is slated for 4-5:30 p.m. with musicians Joe Camacho and Tihing Chun. They will be joined by a dancer from Ke Olu Makani o Mauna Loa.
Performed against the backdrop of the beautiful Niaulani rain forest, these free monthly hula performances will surely deepen the viewer’s appreciation of hula.
The healthy Niaulani forest is home to many native plants and birds found only in Hawaii and is referred to in songs and hula movements.
Visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for more information.