The Volcano Art Center’s 2015 Hula Kahiko series continues at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by kumu Ha’amauliola Aiona and kumu Kawelo Kong Kee with Ke Kula ‘O Nawahiokalani‘opu‘u.
The Volcano Art Center’s 2015 Hula Kahiko series continues at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by kumu Ha’amauliola Aiona and kumu Kawelo Kong Kee with Ke Kula ‘O Nawahiokalani‘opu‘u.
“Ke kula mauli ola Hawai‘i ‘o nawahiokalani‘opu‘u” translates as “the living Hawaiian life-force school.” The main campus of this Hawaiian language immersion school is in Keaau.
Mahu‘ilani, the cultural arts program of Nawahi, was established in 2008. The main purpose of the arts and hula program is to preserve and perpetuate traditional knowledge and skills through performances, products and presentations which bring honor and pride to kupuna (ancestors) and the Hawaiian community exclusively through the Hawaiian language.
Mahu‘ilani has continued by maintaining the relationships with community artisans and practitioners and establishing an advantageous rapport with the community and resources. Through hard work of the teachers and students, Mahu‘ilani has been successful in being stewards of Hawaiian language through various educational venues for the local and visitor community.
Saturday’s performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. For the series, hula halau from across Hawaii and beyond are invited to perform each month in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting at the kahua hula (platform) in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
These 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.
Held in conjunction with this hula kahiko performance, Native Hawaiian cultural specialist Loke Kamanu and her ohana will set up shop on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., presenting a display of “na mea hula” (all things hula). Kamanu will share a variety of instruments, implements and lei styles that play an integral role in the life of the hula practitioner. This demonstration is hands-on and family friendly.
These free events are supported in part by a grant from the county Department of Research and Development and the Hawaii Tourism Authority. National park entrance fees may apply.
Visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222 for more information about Volcano Arts Center.