PUHI — Think of Hawaii, and hula pops to mind, naturally. Actually, it’s one of the two most associated things people think of when they think of the Aloha State, according to Pualani Kanakaole Kanahele, one of the founders of Ka
PUHI — Think of Hawaii, and hula pops to mind, naturally.
Actually, it’s one of the two most associated things people think of when they think of the Aloha State, according to Pualani Kanakaole Kanahele, one of the founders of Ka Aha Hula O Halauaola.
Hundreds of people converged at the Kilohana Luau Pavilion Monday as the fourth World Conference of Hula opened for its weeklong conference that will be centered around the Kauai Community College, Kawaikini Public Charter School, and Island School.
“Hula cannot exist without the environment,” said Kehaulani Kekua, conference director for Ka Aha Hula O Halauaola.
The message was reinforced by keynote speaker Chipper Wichman of the National Tropical Botanical Garden as well as Kanahele who introduced delegates on island to the week of learning and sharing through hula.
Ten different countries were represented at the opening, as people traveled far and wide to attend the tradition. The goal of the festival is to encourage and preserve the ancient art forms of Hawaiian culture through hula.
Members of the public can get a taste of the hula experience during the event that will feature dancing and music concerts from 5 to 9 nightly at Island School.
Tickets are available at the door.
Ka Aha Hula O Halauaola was born during an evening when Kanahele, Leinaala Kalama Heine, and Hokulani Holt were enjoying conversation on hula and wine.
Nathan Kalama of Malie Foundation, the conference presenter, said the conference is here and it’s time to “Gas and go.”
