Volcano Art Center’s “Hula Arts at Kilauea” performance series resumes this Saturday with a presentation by Unuokeahi under the direction of kumu hula Stacey Kapuaikapoliopele Ka‘au‘a.
The performance begins at 10:30 a.m. in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Park entrance fees apply.
On the winter solstice of 2016, Unuokeahi opened her doors under the tutelage of kumu hula Kapua Ka‘au‘a, affectionately known as kumu ‘Au‘a.
Kumu ‘Au‘a underwent the ‘uniki rites in December 2014, led by her kumu Taupouri Tangaro of Unukupukupu.
It is with this that she was bestowed the title of kumu hula. The Unuokeahi traditions stem from the Kanaka‘ole hula traditions in Hilo.
Halau Unuokeahi is made up of culturally sustainable members from various communities.
Students who arrived at the halau come to learn traditional and cultural leadership through mo‘olelo, ritual, and environmental sustainability.
Many of the students of Unuokeahi have reached or are reaching higher academic degrees, an essential piece for the journey of the halau.
Along with Halau Unuokeahi comes the Unuiti Hula Ensemble program from Ka ‘Umeke Ka‘eo Charter school in Keaukaha.
Saturday’s performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center which have not occurred since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The hula will take place outdoors at the kahua hula (platform) located near the VAC Gallery.
Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats.
Visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222 for more information.