The Volcano Art Center’s 2019 Hula Voices series continues from 5:30-7 p.m. today at the VAC Gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The July program features kumu hula Stacey Kapuaikapoliopele Ka‘au‘a, with moderator Desiree Moana Cruz.
Ka‘au‘a, affectionately known as “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.
On the winter solstice of 2016, Halau Unuokeahi opened its doors under Ka‘au‘a’s tutelage. The Unuokeahi traditions stem from Ka‘au‘a’s kumu and his kumuʻs from the Kanaka‘ole hula ‘aiha‘a traditions in Hilo.
Along with Halau Unuokeahi comes the Unuiti Hula Ensemble program at Ka ‘Umeke Ka‘eo Charter School in Keaukaha. Started by Taupouri in the early 2000s, Ka‘au‘a continues the program throughout all grade levels. The program teaches the hula ‘aiha‘a, mo‘olelo and ritual through the Hawaiian language medium.
Hula Voices is an oral history project, presenting an engaging, intimate “talk story” session with Hawaii Island’s hula practitioners and musicians as they share their hula genealogy, traditions, protocols and experiences. These free, educational offerings occur regularly on the first Wednesday of each month. Park entrance fees may apply.
For more information, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
# # # # #