Focus Structure
Hula
Hula is a form of Polynesian dance that portrays a story told through chant or song. There are two main forms of hula; Hula Kahiko and Hula 'auana. The main differences between the two being the time period and the instruments involved in their accompaniment.
Hula Kahiko
Hula Kahiko is categorized as Hula created and performed prior to 1894. This style had no western influence and consisted mostly of various drums and rhythm sticks and chanting as its accompoaniment. Hula Kahiko was created mostly as a form of entertainment to honor chiefs, but also consists of stories of Hawaiian history, and religious rituals and prayers.
Traditionally, female Hula dancers wore what is called a pa'u and were topless. They could also wear necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and lei.
Male dancers on the other hand wore loincloths and were also able to decorate themselves with necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and lei.
The type of leaves the skirt and lei were made of depended on the type of Hula dance that is being performed.
Dancers would rigorously practice until the dance was perfected because making a mistake while dancing Hula was considered both unlucky and disrespectful to either the chief, or deity the dance was being performed for.
An example of Hula Kahiko (youtube.com)
Hula 'auana
Hula 'auana is Hula that has been influenced by western culture and instruments. This style often consists of string instruments like ukulele and guitar. The vocals accompanied this type of Hula are more often songs than ritual chants. They still, however, tell a story.
The grass skirt and cocnut top was created as a costume for female Hula 'auana dancers. However, for slower or more formal performances, a dress is typically worn. Men typically wear pants with their grass skirts with a tropically themed shirt. Leis, bracelets, anklets, and necklaces are also worn by dancers.