Watch and Learn

Before written word, Hawaiians used dance to educate the people about the creation of their people, the history of their royalty, and the legends of their past.  This form of dance is called Hula and is preformed by both male and female dancers.  Delivered with chants or songs telling about significant events and people in their history, Hawaiians consider the dance of Hula sacred and is considered nullified if not performed properly.  Hula can be executed in a serious and dedicated manner or in a light-hearted manner.  Dancers must become one with the actions, images, or stories they are mocking in their interpretation.

Musical instruments are used in traditional (known as ancient) Hula. These mostly consist of drums made of the things that were available centuries ago:  different size gourds, gourds covered with sharkskin, coconut shells covered with fish skin, sticks of various types, and lava stone.  Missionaries banned the dance in the 1800s, because they felt it was wicked and against God.  Originally, female dancers wore a wrapped shirt and were topless.  Today, dancers wear grass skirts, leis of flowers around their neck, shoulders, as head dressings and as bracelets, anklets made of whale bone or dog teeth, and the females do wear tops as well.  All movements of the body, the hands, the arms, the legs and feet are meaningful in Hula.  Dancers must become one with the dance and the execution of the dance.  These movements mimic animals, war, and plant life, including trees.  

If visiting any of the Hawaiian islands, you will see Hula dancing, therefore, learning about the creation of the Hawaiian people, their royalty and mythology.  Plus it is fun to watch!