Where does the hula come from?
Quick answer
The hula comes from Hawaii, now a US state. It’s a traditional Native Hawaiian dance in which graceful movements of the hands, hips and feet tell stories, accompanied by chant (oli and mele) or song. Hula was used to pass down history, legends and genealogy before Hawaiian had a written form.
Two main styles
| Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Hula kahiko | The ancient style, performed to chants and traditional percussion such as the ipu (gourd drum) and pahu (sharkskin drum); dancers wear traditional skirts, often of ti leaves |
| Hula ʻauana | The modern style, performed to songs with ukulele, guitar and singing, developed after Western contact |
Every movement has meaning. A hand motion can represent rain, the ocean, a flower or a mountain, so the dance is a form of storytelling.
A history of suppression and revival
- Ancient timesHula is part of religious ceremonies and storytelling, dedicated to the goddess Laka
- 1830Under the influence of Christian missionaries, Queen Kaʻahumanu restricts public hula
- 1874–1891King David Kalākaua, the “Merrie Monarch,” revives hula at royal celebrations
- 1970sThe “Hawaiian Renaissance” brings new pride in hula, language and culture
The Merrie Monarch Festival
Held every year in Hilo on the Big Island since 1964, the Merrie Monarch Festival is the most prestigious hula competition in the world. Hula schools, called hālau, train for months, and tickets sell out quickly.
More than grass skirts
Tourist shows and films made images of grass skirts and coconut bras famous, but authentic hula is a serious cultural practice, taught by respected teachers called kumu hula.
Hawaii and the US
Hawaii became the 50th US state in 1959; see the last state to join the US. Planning a trip? Check what time it is in Hawaii.
For other dances with deep roots, see where the tango comes from.
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