Volcano Art Center presents kumu hula Kalua, Akaunu

The Volcano Art Center’s 2017 Hula Kahiko series continues at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by kumu hula Manaiakalani Kalua with Akaunu.

Born and raised in Keaukaha, Kalua graduated from Kamehameha Schools in 1996 and received a bachelor’s degree in Hawaiian studies in 2002 from Ka Haka ‘Ula ‘o Ke‘elikolani at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Since 2003, he has been an instructor in the Hawaii Life Styles program at Hawaii Community College. His halau, Akaunu, opened in 2012 and is closely tied to the traditions of Unukupukupu and Halau O Kekuhi.

Saturday’s performance will take place in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting at the kahua hula (platform) in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats. National park entrance fees might apply.

In conjunction with this month’s Hula Kahiko performance, the community is invited to join kumu hula Ab Valencia and members of Halau Hula Kalehuaki‘eki‘eika‘iu on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery as they share with you “Na Mea Hula” (all things hula). Come and learn a hula, use various hula implements and try your hand at lei making. Experience the different aspects that play an integral role in the life of the hula dancer. This cultural demonstration is hands-on and family friendly.

These free cultural events are supported in part by a grant from the Hawaii County Department of Research and Development and the Hawaii Tourism Authority, and individual funding from members of the Volcano Art Center’s ‘ohana.

The nonprofit Volcano Art Center was created in 1974 to promote, develop and perpetuate the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawaii’s people and environment through activities in the visual, literary and performing arts.

For more information, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or call 967-8222.