Hei: Halau Hana Hei

Calabash holding net of Makali'i

2011-10-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

Accordingn to tradition. all the foods of Hawai'i were gathered up by Makali'i, placed in a calabash and held in a net hung in the heavens. The small race of rats volunteered to get food back so they travelled on the back of a rainboe and gnawed at the net releasing all food to the earth. The fallen net can be found imprinted on a rock on the south point of Hawai'i island.

The large central figure held all the major foods. The smaller sides held the minor foods. It is one of a few figues made with the assistance of a toe.

Hawaiian Language Day

2011-10-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

October 22 - High school, immersion school, parents gather to participate in various activities like hei. One young 1st grader creates his own pyramid. Another high school couple stunble upon another (triagle)after learning "Kauhale a Limaloa"

Nana I Ke Kumu Workshops

2011-08-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

I was privileged to share hei at Kumu Hula Vicky Takamine's Pa'i Foundation's "Nana i Ke Kumu" workshops held at the University of Hawai'i Music Department. The weeklong workshops featured oli, hula, 'ukulele and other performing arts. Hei is a performing art. Here , students marvel at one of the stages of "Kauhale a Limaloa". They form what Dickey calls "Hale 'Ilikini" (teepee). It is actually a mauna (mountain).

Na Hiku o Makali'i

2011-05-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

April hei workshop with Moku Yoshikawa. Here he forms 7-eyes or Na Hiku o Makali'i, The Seven Stars of the Pleiades. He also learned 1-eye. A traditional way to learn hei was from parents and grandparents as I did from kupuna (elder) Aina Keawe. She taught me 1 and 7 eyes saying that one should begin with 1 eye or Nenue (rudder fish). This custom of beginning learning with an established form is similar to quilt makers who first learn the 'ulu (breadfruit) design or feather lei makers who first start out with the poepoe (rounded) style. Of course the raison d'etre lies in the meaning: 'ulu (breadfruit) is similar to ulu (grow); poepoe (rounded) implies fulness; and the One-eye represents beginnings.

Hei Workshop on Maui

2010-12-02T10:31:00.000-08:00

11/27/10 - Spent the day working with Keala'iliahi Paredes on hei for children. Here he makes 'Opae (Shrimp) which will be part of the story "'Öpae E". We also learned puhi (eel), honu (turtle), nenue (rudder fish).

Later that day Keali'i Reischel and Hulali joined us to learn "Kuhau Pi'o ka La". We began with "Kauhale o Limaloa." Keali'i is a well known composer, singer, producer, and kumu hula but is also an expert in Hawaiian knotting and netmaking. He found the skill to make hei different from knotting and commented that he found it harder.

many stars,salt cave,six diamonds tutorials string figures

2010-10-28T17:29:00.000-07:00

This little boy demonstrates a Hawaiian string figure which he calls Salt Cave.

Navajo String Games by Grandma Margaret

2010-10-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hei Workshop with Kahuawaiola Teacher Candidates

2010-10-28T16:27:00.000-07:00

On October 21st I met with several teacher candidates in the Kahuawaiola program out of the University of Hawai'i at Hilo. This workshop was conducted in Hawaiian. We learned "Nenue" (one-eye) and "Na Hiki o Makali'i" (seven eyes) which I learned from kupuna (elder) 'Aina Keawe. We also read a Hawaiian language story about Makali'i and learned "Koko a Makali'i/Net of Makali'i". In this story the god-chief Makali'i gathers all the food and plant life and binds them in a net in the heavens. The rat people volunteer to climb up to retrieve the foodstuff so life could continue on earth. They travel upon the back of a rainbow and nibble at the cordage thus releasing the food to earth. A part of that rope can be found impressed in rocks at South Point, Island of Hawai'i and the place where the rats landed is named for them, 'Iole.

Hei Workshop with Hawaiian Immersion Teachers

2010-10-14T10:37:00.001-07:00

I met with several kula kaiapuni (Hawaiian language immersion) teachers of Waiau Elementary School at Queen Lili'uokalani Children's Center at Mu'olaulani to learn hei. We began learning Kauhale a Limaloa then learned the chant accompanying it. Then we read a story about the naughtly 'elepaio and other versions/derivations later on. We then learned how to make Huewai and Kanukuokamanu (the beak of the bird) to accompany the song, 'Io E. In the story of the naughty 'elepaio, he pecks on the water gourd of a man causing the well-sought out water to flow out. The man throws a rock at the 'elepaio bird and he then flies to his bird kin seeking redress. However, each of the birds see 'Elepaio's fault.

Halehale Ke Aloha

2010-08-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Read this article on the string game and chant, Halehale ke Alha, by Hawaiian scholar, Kihei de Silva.

http://kaiwakiloumoku.ksbe.edu/

Men at 'Aha Kane 2010

2010-08-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

The second annual 'Aha Kane (Hawaiian men's conference) was held at Windward Community College. I was asked to teach hei, Hawaiian string figure making. Hei is not merely a child's game as string, cord, sennit were essential "tools" in a man's work - to bind an adze, lash beams, lash canoe parts, knotting nets, etc.

Ku i ka pono; ku'e i ka hewa

2010-06-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

My grandfather signed the Hui Aloha 'Aina petition against annexation to the U.S. at a young age. As a result of this encounter, he was recruited to go to Hilo Boarding School and left rural Kaua'i. He is here with my greatgrandmother who moved from Hana to Manana to Anahola to receive konohiki land from an 'ohana member. Most of the families of Anahola Kai singed the Ku'e Petition.
Read about this petition: http://libweb.hawaii.edu/digicoll/annexation/petition.html

Anti Annexation Memorial

2010-06-14T12:20:00.001-07:00

Here I am next to the name of a relative who signed the Anti Annexation petition gathered by the Hui Aloha 'Aina. Nearly 21,000 signatures were gathered and presente to the U.S. Congress. The treaty never passed and so there was never a treaty of annexation as is mythologized. See http://libweb.hawaii.edu/digicoll/annexation/pet-intro.html

Ku Gods Return

2010-06-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.starbulletin.com/news/20100604_Gathering_of_the_gods.html?mobile=true

Headress of lightning, large squinting eyes, flared nostrils, infinity grin/grimaced mouths, muscled arms, cupped hands, bent knees. Ku!

A large image from the British Museum (central) and another from the Peabody Essex museum (right) reunited with the Bishop Museum one (left). They are carved in the "Kona" style, a style assumed to have arose after the advent of metal and contact with the european. It could have been carved by the same person because they are of the same style. They were carved of ʻulu or breadfruit and not ʻohiʻa as we would suppose. This would make sense since the Peabody records state that the image was a "god of medicine". It probably came from ʻAhuʻena since Kamehameha rededicated it to healing after his surviving a scourge. The others may have come from Hale o Keawe. The British Museumʻs back is also carved (the headdress/hair). Spectacular.
You cannot help but be in awe seeing them together.
Noelle Kahanu of Bishop Museum shared in a symposium after that the theme of the exhibit, "E ku ana ka paia" (taken from prophecy of Kapihe) came to be a rallying call for unification and hence its applicability to the unification of the statues. However, I think it also refers to the unificaiton of Hawaiians. She shares a beautiful story of master carver Rocky Jensen, Sam Kaʻai, and Keone Nunes sitting a talking before the images as if (my interpretation), they were family at a reunion. Previous to the symposium , at the opening, 3 halau united in hula pahu. The hula: Kaulilua, A Koʻolau, and Auaʻa ʻia blended well and also "spoke" to this theme of unification: in chant and in action. The ending hula, Ulei Pahu, says, "A he mea, a he mea ʻoe!" You have become someone of worth! Pololei.
HOw do we know they are ku images? The Peabody curator says that their records indicate that theirs is a "god of medicine". If that is true then the ku images are not the war god , Ku, as the British Museum has written as a description. If this is is Ku the god of reconcilliation and healing then their unification is even more significant for us Hawaiians.

2010 Alii Sunday - Phil Spalding 3's Photos- powered by SmugMug#P-5-16

2010-03-22T17:04:00.000-07:00

2010 Alii Sunday - Phil Spalding 3's Photos- powered by SmugMug#P-5-16

2010-03-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

2010 Alii Sunday - Phil Spalding 3's Photos- powered by SmugMug#P-5-16

New Kähili for King Lunalilo

2010-02-01T10:55:00.000-08:00

Here are the new kahili made by master featherwork maker, Paulette Kahalepuna, and her crew comprised of Hawaiian civic club members, halau, and church members. They are fantastic. Here they were blessed at Kawaiahaʻo Church as the kingʻs tomb is just outside. The names are very meaningful. The cylindrical ones are named Kalähikiola and Kaläkauloa and will be placed in the east and west respectively in the mausoleum. The domed shaped one, my favorite, is called Kawëkiuokawaolani. Three other hand held kahili are names: ʻOlohe, Kaukoʻo, and Poʻohina. They will also be placed in the tomb. Kahili are feather standards, symbols of rank and royalty. In the Hawaiian belief they are personififed and embued with ancestral mana.

Four eyes - Papio Maka Liʻiliʻi

2010-01-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine with a beautiful example of Papio Maka Liʻiliʻi or Small Eyed Jack/trevally. The secret to creating a beautiful design is really stretching the string with splayed fingers and he has wonderfully large hands that can separate well at the fingers. The figure, Papio Maka Liʻiliʻi, represents a disinterested suitor. An interested suitor has large eyes. That figure is Papio Maka Nui or Large Eyed Jack and is two eyes. The Hawaiian method for creating two eyes is unique to the islands and not found elsewhere.

Ho'olokahi March to 'Iolani Palace

2010-01-17T16:47:00.000-08:00

As I walked from Kawaiaha'o Church today , 1/17/10, at around 10:15am I heard the sound of conch shells and saw this group of colorful banners marching towards out churchgrounds on Punchbowl. A small group pealed off to visit the tomb of King Lunalilo on church grounds. The rest stayed at the corner. They will continue to 'Iolani Palace to mark/observe the illegal overthrowal of the Hawaiian kingdom. Another group of men in white malo and kihei also came by holding Lonoikamakahiki. I heard they are making a transit of the entire island.

CNHA Convention

2009-09-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights for me at the last CNHA Convention were the artisans and practioners' displays in the lobby of the center. Here are some samples of Mr. Kuahiwi Lorenzo's exquisite featherwork.

Food Sovereignty

2009-08-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

Outside of the CNHA convention hall were two unobtrusive but powerful statements. The first was a poi board (not seen and overturned) with the inscription of Queen Lili'uokalani's statement to temporarily place the Hawaiian government in US "hands" pending an appeal. She did this to avoid bloodshed.

The second statement is by Daniel Anthony. His goal is to feed the Hawaiian people the "food of the land" which is poi. He emphasizes this by pounding kalo throughout the three days and doing so clad only in his pü'ali. That is true Food Sovereignty!

Hawaiian Convention

2009-08-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

Here are the works of my two new favorite Hawaiian artists along w/ my dear friend, Ipo Nihipali's AWESOME and MANA-FULL painting of Waimea Valley.

Ipo Nihihapali's MANAFULL painting of Waimea Valley

The 8th Annual Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) held their conference at the Hawai'i Convention Center. Many prominent Hawaiian leaders and workers were there along with Alaska Native and other Native American leaders to share and brainstorm ideas to advance the Hawaiian social, economic, political and cultural agenda. Representatives from the Obama administration were also there. Artists put on the Maoli Arts exhibition in a large convention room. Awesome.

Illegal Overthrowal of Hawai'i's Kingdom

2009-08-28T11:16:00.000-07:00

Went on traveling theatre reacting the days preceeding the illegal overthrowal of Hawai'i's legitimate government. Presented by Hawai'i Pono'ï Coalition. Also provided was a map showing old Honolulu - "The positioning suggests the Hawaiian troops were more favorably located to protect American lives and property than were the U.S. troops." You can easily discern the ruse devised by so-called "Committee of Safety" in cahoots w/ American Minister Stevens. Timeline also presented w/ list of resources so participants can check out the facts of story such as : 1) The Queen's strict adherence to the letter of law and the Hawaiian Constitution; 2) The affection and support of the Asian population for the Queen because of their being treated as true citizens; 3) The true support of the Hawaiians to change the Bayonet Constitution. As the Hawaiian constitution is iterated one scenario, I came away with the thought that the likes of Thurston and Dole, who were sworn citizens of Hawai'i, were really traitors to the realm and it is the legitimacy of their action to form a new government which should be questioned. Seriously.

Kona Kids Learn Hei

2009-08-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

Students from Aloha Victor’s Hālau Kala‘akeakauikawekiu of Kona learn hei (string figures) from Miki‘ala Kanekoa, a kumu hula friend of ours and teacher at Kapolei High School. The Hālau is also learning from Elder Punihaole. They also learn pala'ie, a Hawaiian ball and loop game.
Beautiful footage of Kona!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWMBqzrjZVw

String Figure Epiphany

2009-08-24T10:19:00.000-07:00

The ephiphany - A teacher realizes how his favorite pastime, string games (Cat's Cradle), can help to teach keyboarding. And good keyboarding is the key to writing fluency, empowering students to use their own voice (Spanish). The Youtube video shows many old photos of native Americans performing complex and beautiful string figures.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I60rxeIAYvE&feature=related

Maori Master of Whai (Hei/string figure creation)

2009-08-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

Mäori Master of Whai, Toby Rikihana, demonstrates some Maori string igures onQuicktime video . See link. His "Te Rua Kümara" or Sweet Potato Pit is made the same way in Hawai'i but it is called "Ka Lua o Pele" or "The Pit of Pele" and his "Whare Kehua" is our "Mauna" or "Hale Lehua". He demonstrates how to make "Tohorä" which is "Koholä" in Hawaiian, however, the same figure is called "Palaoa" which are beaked whales. Koholä refers to the Humpback whale. What was also intriguing is some of the openings and construction techniques which are also very similar in Hawaiian yet we derive different images. For example, we begin 'Te Pae Tūī' me 'Te Pae Kākā' opening moves create sweet potatoe, a canoe, a sled, and a lasso. Very interesting stuff for string figure nerds. Koro Rikihana narrates in both Mäori and English.

The other link features an article on Kwatkiutl Native American string figures. The Kwatkiutl live along the Northwest coast of North America and are well known for their totem poles, elaborate wooden masks, and grand Potlatches. One of the authors, Julia Ayerkieva, says that "The Kwatkiutl string figures also bear resemblance to those of Hawai'i."

Muscle Memory and Hei

2009-08-18T14:01:00.000-07:00

How is it that after many years he could remember the string figure? I was amazed because he let his fingers take control and in no time he performed 7-eyes the Hawaiian way. In talking later about the phenomenon, he said that his Chinese grandmother taught him while they sat on the länai/porch having no t.v. or other kind of modern detractor in those days. He also learned knife techniques! Who is this person?

Hawaiian Wise Saying -Little work, little gain.

2009-08-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

1. ‘U‘uku ka hana, ‘u‘uku ka loa‘a. Little work, little gain. There are many wise sayings dealing with the value of hard work. Many are rooted in routine activities of the Hawaiians of old such as involving the harvesting of ‘ulu, “’A’ole loa’a ka ‘ulu i ka pökole o ka lou” meaning, “The breadfruit cannot be gotten with a short hook”. Or how about, “’Ohi ka manu o ke ao” which means “the bird of the day reaps its rewards”, here referring to the ua’u bird which catches its meal each day. In today’s ‘ölelo no’eau, ‘u’uku is a word for very little. ‘U‘uku ka hana, ‘u‘uku ka loa‘a. Little work, little gain.

Bishop Museum Hawaiian Hall - Master Artisans

2009-08-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

( pictures of master artisans: Ipo Vaughan’s lauhala box; Kana‘e Keawe’s pahu (drum);Paulette Kahalepuna w/ a modern rendition of an ‘ahu‘ula/Hawaiian cape; Paulette Kahelpuna's feather lei.)

Upon entering the museum, one comes into the MAMO Exhibition featuring the works of contemporary Hawaiian artists. Aunty Mary Lou Kekuewa’s family cape and Aunty Gussie Bento’s beautiful kapa kuiki (Hawaiian quilt) immediately grabbed my attention. An Uncle Kawika Parker’s painting also attracted my admiration. I need to go back and spend time there. Outside on the museum grounds, master craftsmen and artisans displayed their talent.

Upon entering Hawaiian Hall proper one’s sensations are struck by beautiful sounds and the feeling of entering Hawai‘i kahiko. Gazing to my right I saw the beautiful Kumulipo panels, I believe, of the late Brother Carl Pao. The style is distinctively his but I could not get up close to see the titling. Center stage of that is David Kalama’s* video masterpiece . I just wanted to sit and relax to the sound of waves running over ‘ili‘ili but the procession wins around the stage and refurbished Hale Pili, beautifully restored by Pömaika‘i Crozier with the help of students from Farrington High School.
The bottom floor reflects the origins of our Hawaiian people and hence much is dedicated to the gods Kāne, Kū, and Lono. I did not see a display to Kanaloa but the whole floor respesents his realm. In addition to the restored palaoa/whale hanging above, there are also other sea creatures of Kanaloa such as hīhīmanu and fish.

*There are 2 David Kalama videographers. This David Kalama is of “‘Onipa‘a” acclaim.

Bishop Museum Reopens Hawaiian Hall

2009-08-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, August 8th, marked the formal, ceremonial reopening of Hawaiian Hall at the Bishop Museum. It began at 7am with chanting at the Bernice Street gate. Assembled in solemn procession were dignitaries accompanied by beautiful, multi-colored kāhili of various shapes and sizes, my favorite being the peacock feathered one. Following them were the royal benevolent societies: Royal Order of Kamehameha; ‘Ahahui Ka‘ahumanu; Hale o Nā Ali‘i o Hawai‘i; and ‘Ahahui Māmakakaua all dressed in their splendid regalia. As the chanting cantillated over the fields of Kaiwi‘ula, members of the warrior group, Pā Ku‘ialua, flanked the procession. It was an awesome site reminiscent of the Huaka‘i aloali‘i (royal entourage) of old.
After circuiting the grounds and museum proper, the procession seated themselves in front of the grand entry festooned in lei of fern and flowers. Beautiful floral kāhili of fern and yellow orchids also decorated the staging area. Manu Boyd officiated and narrated the welcome which included a message from the Honorable Neil Abercrombie, U.S. Congressman and a message from the Honorable Senator Daniel Akaka through his son, Kaniala Akaka of Moku o Keawe. Bishop Museum CEO, Tim Johns, welcomed the assembly saying “We believe the re-opening of the hall to be a present day tribute to both the glorious past and future of the Hawaiian people." Also one of the architects spoke. Ralph Appelbaum Associates of New York and Hawai‘i based Mason Architects and Health Construction Services were responsible for planning, design, and construction.

Keaomelemele: Honoring the Elements

2009-07-31T11:01:00.000-07:00

Kumu Hula Leina'ala Kalama Heine told the audience from Hälauaola last night, "I am O'ahu". As the director of "Keaomelemele", putting on the production was a dream of hers and last night her dream came true. The production, based on the story by Moses Manu, replays tonight, July 31st at the historic Hawai'i Theatre.

The opening act features Snowbird Bento's men paying homage to the powers of Käne and Kanaloa. "....Käne represents the life giving source of us all. Kanaloa, the equipose of metaphysical and corporeal." Wow!

Keaomelemele comes from the yellow clouds to learn hula from her older sister, Paliuli (Pi'ilani Hanohano). Paliuli trains in the Wai'anae mountains and is joined in her training by the men of Nä Kamalei.

Modern touches are introduced into the otherwise traditional format with a contemporary rendition by 24 VII Dance Force and Küpono Aweau from "Do You Think you Can Dance" was front and center. Sky Perkins also sang a R&B rendition of a song for Ka'ala.

A highlight for me and the audience were the kaikamahine (young girls) who came unto stage confidently and w/o any cue from an adult went right into their hula kälä'au calling upon the various kinolau (body forms) that adorn the altar of the hula. While the plants were brought in, images were projected upon a large screen in the background. In fact, the large screen provided a backdrop for various scenes - valleys, cliffs, plains, and even the starry sky.

"Keaomelemele" , after all, is about the origins of hula on O'ahu and much of it was featured showcasing the classic Pualei o Likolehua stylings of Leina'ala Kalama Heine. Nani nö! Act IV ended with a rousing hula kälä'au to Keaomelemele herself with cast flowing en masse unto the state cantillating their praises to the beautiful young maiden.

Turtle Surfaces at Hula Conference

2009-07-30T15:20:00.001-07:00

Honu iki, honu iki, lu'u ia, lu'u ia a ea mai me ka poho pa'akai.

Hawaiian String Figure Making Continues

2009-07-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

A participant in Hana Hei II shows pride in her first attempt at hei (string figure making). She shows the classic Hawaiian hei figure, "Halekumuka'aha" , a house figure, which is created with a doubled string to show "strength and endurance". The opening move is unlike other symmetrical openings which posed a problem for almost all participants. This workshop was a first at the Ka 'Aha Hula o Hälauaola: 3rd World Conference on Hula held at the Kamehameha Schools this entire week.

Hana Hei at World Conference on Hula

2009-07-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

Californian, Makaki'i Kalama, says this about hei (string figure making): "As an instructor to nä keiki all things that engage and involve them in hula are very valuable to me. It can also make me more popular on camping trips. :)" Here she is very happy upon getting "Nenue" (rudder fish), the Hawaiian version of One-eye.

Hana Hei at Hälauaola Conference

2009-07-28T13:24:00.000-07:00

Julie Moana Boyd is exuberant at her first attempt at Hawaiian string figure making in my presentation at Hälauaola 2009. Here she makes 7 -eyes or "Nä Hiku o Makali'i". Julie is attending the 'Aha Hula o Hälauaola 2009: Worldwide Conference on Hula held this week of July at the Kamehameha Schools, Kapälama Campus. It is held every four years and features performances, cultural field trips, and presentations by noted composers, hula exponents, and Hawaiian cultural practitioners.

Keiki Hula Winners Learn Hei

2009-07-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

Check out pictures (at bottom of page) of students of Hälau Kekuaokalä'au'iliahi (Maui) learning hei (string figures) from Kumu Miki'ala Kanekoa and her helpers. Looks like they're having a lot of fun. I also liked Master Keiki Hula's honest reflection on being on stage . Go to Shutterfly to read it! http://halaukekuaokalaaualailiahi.shutterfly.com/

Hailama V.K.K. Farden Elevated to Iku Nahalani

2009-07-27T11:22:00.001-07:00

Mr. Hailama Farden was recently elevated to the position of Iku Nahalani in Hale O Na Ali'i o Hawai'i at its annual convention in Maui, July 24 -26, 2009. He is pictured here outside of the convention hall with Kupuna Maria Artis, a retired president and one of the longest serving members at the convention having known four regents of the benevolent royal society. Hailama was invested with the cape of the Iku Nahalani which he is wearing by the current Regent, Prince Quentin Kawananakoa, to fill the vacancy left after the passing of our beloved Aunty Marge Kealanahele. It seems like Hailama is following in the footsteps of Gladys Ainoa Brandt, the longest serving Iku Nahalani in the organization. Aunty Gladys was a principal at the Kamehameha Schools, a long time educator, and Hailama is currently a vice-principal at the Kamehameha Schools, a former Hawaiian language teacher at his alma mater, and a former president of the 'Ahahui 'Olelo Hawai'i. In his role as Iku Nahalani, he is the highest ranking member of Hale o Na Ali'i o Hawai'i not of the Kawananakoa family and will serve as an advisor to the family and liaison between the Prince and seven halau/lodges/chapters of the society, all of whom are named for members of the Kawananakoa family: Chapter 1-Halau 'o Wahiika'ahu'ula (Honolulu) ; Chapter 2 - Halau 'o Kalakaua (Hilo); Chapter 3 - Halau 'o Kapi'olani (Kaua'i) ; Chapter 4 - Halau 'o Lili'uokalani (Maui) ; Chapter 5 - Halau 'o Kawananakoa (Moloka'i); Chapter 6 - Halau 'o Keli'iahonui (Waimea); and Chapter 7 - Halau 'o Po'omaikelani (Leeward O'ahu). Hailama joined the society at the age of 18 following the footsteps of his kupuna and is a member of Halau 'o Wahiika'ahu'ula as well as Halau 'o Lili'uokalani (Maui). He retired from the position of Iku Ha'i Nui whose main function is to act as the statewide president of the association. Ho'omaika'i! Na ke Akua e ho'oikaika, ho'oulu, ho'onui 'ike ia.

July is Keiki Hula Month

2009-07-22T18:43:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Elia Akaka who took 3rd in this year's Queen Lili'uokalani Keiki Hula Competition held from July 16th-18th. Elia enters singing "Aloha Ku'u Home a'i Kane'ohe" for his beloved home. Last year he impressed me with his strong ku'i!

Elia dances with Aunty Joan Lindsey and is the son of friends, Hau'oli and Ku'ulei Akaka. Elia's father , Hau'oli, and brother , Halehaku, accompanied Elia with strong and instrumentation.

Conratulations also to Master Keiki Hula 2009 Keanu Cockett of Halau Kekuaokala'au'ala'iliahi (kumu hula 'Iliahi and Haunani Paredes) of Maui and Miss Keiki Hula 2009 Kalehuaonalani Pavao Halau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leina'ala of Kaua'i. Mahalo to Blaine Fergestrom of OHA for photo.

Tongan Teller of Tales

2009-07-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

Master Tongan storyteller, scholar, and educator, Emil Wolfgramm shown here with Dr. Peter Hanohano and Ki'inani Ka'alekahi, M.P.A of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. He holds a Tongan akaü or fire stick as a prop in his storytelling of how this stick is found as a constellation in the heavens next to Mäui’s fishhook (Scorpio). Emil retells the story of Mäui’s separating the earth and sky, first in Tongan and then in English with dramatic and an endearing, comedic effect. The audience previously learned the Tongan way of salutation (hand claps and the saying of “Issä”) which gets the audience hooked into the storytelling and participating in its telling – a very Polynesian trait in storytelling. Emil’s balance of humor and seriousness adds to the effect and enjoyment in listening and remembering this famous Polynesian story. He uses the akaü just as Mäui did to “prop” up the Dome of Heaven higher and higher until it reached its present position thus accounting for the akaü being up in the heavens.
I appreciated Mr. Wolfgramm’s story on how, as he was translating an important document from Tongan, and some parts with the assistance of the French translation, fell asleep and encountered his ancestors who revealed the meaning of Tongan cosmogony to him. He also shared that the names of the ancestors in Tongan cosmogony were more than just names but also virtues and attributes. He gave the example of Piki, a male, meaning that a man must “take hold” and “cling to” important things in life as his wife. Piki’s counterpart, Kele, refers to “cloudiness” and by virtue the idea of fecundity and procreation.
Mr. Wolfgram has the unique ability to work in the Tongan, English, and even French academic and literary milieu and in both traditional and scientific worlds. He currently lives in Hawai'i and is completing his doctorate in New Zealand.

Canadian String Figure Educator in Hawaii

2009-07-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

String Figure educator, expert, and enthusiast, Anne Glover, spoke and taught at the National Storytelling Networks Conference in Hawai'i. I liked her preliminary remarks stating that string figure making is more than child’s play. Her revelation that string has the ability to connect one person to another was also very important to me as I attempt to revitalize hei or Hawaiian string figure making and storytelling here in Hawai'i. Anne discovered, while attempting to “blend” two diverse populations of students together before their meeting at a local, Canadian middle school, that string figures has an almost therapeutic effect on people. Check out her website to learn more about that. http://www.anneglover.ca/
I appreciated her acknowledgement of the native peoples of the world and especially her story about the Kwatkiutl natives of Canada, especially the men, going about after supper and challenging each other to string figure making contests. She linked string figure making to storytelling and also to ritual –both aspects are key to Hawaiian string figure making. Anne also shared the very famous and complicated Inuit figure of the “dog” seen in the photo.

A Hula Journey - Aunty Dodie Holmes

2009-07-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

On July 7th, Aunty Dodie Holmes was surprised with a hula program to celebrate her 30 years of hula (1979-2009). Hosted by Hälau Hula 'o Wai'ale'ale, under the direction of Kumu Hula John 'Aiwohi, a student of Aunty Dodie and a haumana oli/hula of mine. She was festooned with lei from her many students, friends, and family.
The program began with an original chant performed by hula brother and kumu hula, La'akapu Lenchanko. Two kumu hula, John Aiwohi and Aunty's hula brother, Andrew Akau from San Francisco entered the staging area at St. Pius church in Mänoa. Sue Botti danced a beautiful "Aia La 'o Pele", Aunty Maiki Aiu Lake's version as Aunty Dodie is also of the hula tradition. Next featured was a premiere of possibly Aunty Maiki's last choreographed number, "Pua Lei o Ha'o", which I taught the kumu to teach his women. Andrew's women of Hula Hälau 'o Kupukalau'ie'ie danced "E Ho'i Ke Aloha i Ni'ihau" and the kahiko program ended with "He Ma'i no Kunuiakea".
The 'auana portion featured Aunty Maiki's styling. John and his wife , Joy, began with a lively "Lae Lae". Costuming was flash and joy-ful. Aunty Dodie was very moved when her ladies of Nä Pua Pilialoha danced "Waikä". She was moved by all of the dances but she got up to dance "Pö La'ila'i" and also graced the audience with a solo of "Pua 'Ähihi".
Everyone enjoyed a Hawaiian lü'au after and the pineapple upside down cake before I had a chance to reach the table. Moral : get your dessert early at a lü'au.
Pïpï holo ka'ao.

HULA RECITAL TRADITION RETURNS IN JULY

2009-07-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

This July we saw the return of the “hula recital” a sharp contrast to hula competition event. The non-competitive format allows hula academies to feature their particular style and also to feature multi generations of hula students.

On July 3rd we began with ‘Ahahui Ka'iulani presenting Hälau Hula ‘o Maiki under the direction of Kumu Hula (hula teacher) Coline Aiu, daughter of the renown founder and originator of the terms “hula brother and hula sister”as well as the form of hälau hula (hula academy) as we know today. Kumu Coline brought back the beautiful plumeria lei curtain which wafted its fragrance towards the audience when pulled forward and upward. A highlight in the kahiko (traditional) section for me was the performance of a hula commemorating the return of Aunty Maiki Aiu Lake’s famed and squat ipu hula (gourd drum) named “Tubby”. The ‘auana was superb, exquisite, and exciting and, of course, the children stole the show with their “Happy Talk” sung by Aunty Maiki on tape and other cute hula. Parents were standing for their keiki. I especially liked the ‘ukulele ensemble featuring the brothers and male members of many of the female ‘ölapa. They also played some wicked tö'ere!

A favorite section of mine opened with chanter Kawika Napoleon giving a genealogical recital of our Hawaiian ancestors then bridging into a recitation of the genealogy of the present Mäori King, Tuheitia, ali'i nui of Tainui. The King’s sister, Princess Tomairani Paki, was in the audience with her entourage and it was Tomai who came to Hawai’i to learn the hula and it is through her that the relationship between Hälau Hula ‘O Maiki and the people of Waikato deevelped. Obrien ‘Eselu sang a beautiful, beautiful song, “Mahinarangi”, the female ancestor of the present King and his family. The hälau , dressed in moonlit white, drifted into place behind the trademark Hälau Hula ‘o Maiki scrim. They concluded with a waiata a ringa, “Purea Nei e Te Hau”, which speaks of cleansing by the rain and purity of the sun. It was very moving.

On July 11th, Hälau Hula Kamamolikolehua presented its hö'ike (show/recital), “Kupu A'e” which featured their kumu hula who graduated last summer under the traditional ‘Üniki rites. I attended this to appreciate the work of the kumu hula, Pöhai Souza, and one of her kumu hula graduates, Aunty Dodie Keaolaniäkea Holmes, whom I just admire a bunch for her inimitable Aunty Maiki style of hula ‘auana. Other kumu hula graduates were Carol Malina Kaulukukui and Catherine Ostrem. My favorites were “Hole Waimea”, “He Inoa no Ali'iolani” (because it is seldom seen), and “Holo ana ‘o Kaläkaua”, a version they learned from Kumu Hula Ab Valencia of Volcano, Hawai'i Island. The presentation of “Hälau Hanalei” to an ensemble of the best sounding pahu I have ever heard still revirberates in my soul. The ho'opa'a (musicians) beat upon the pahu with feeling and the song was filled with tone , timbre, and energy. The program stated, “This hula pahu contains poetic inferences to lovemaking, which Hawaiians honored as a source of life.”

The ‘auana (modern hula) set featured the stock Hälau Hula ‘o Maiki favorites like “Pua ‘Ähihi” , “Alekoki” and , of course, Aunty’s own composition, “Aloha Kaua’i”, which was the finale piece de resistance. Premiered were “Halekulani” by Kahauanu Lake and Maddy Lam. Uncle K as he is affectionately called was in the audience appreciating it all. The Greenwell family also attended to see and hear the hula, “Mähulani”, written for Jimmie and Martha greenwell’s 55th wedding anniversary. Mrs. Greenwell was in the audience. My personal favorite was “Beauty Hula” for its simplicity and choreography with ‘ili'ili (stone castanets) and because the ladies were clad in the seldom seen kïkepa (“sarong”) which was of a kupukupu fern green color.

Its take a lot of work to put on such a recital so much kudos and mahalo goes to the two hälau. Family, friends, and the broader community benefits from these performances and as both kumu hula told its audiences, it is their way of preserving and perpetuating the art of and love for hula which was passed on to them. Pëlä nö. Pïpï holo ka'ao.

Kalaniali'i Awards

2009-07-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

The Kalaniali'i Awards this past Saturday, July 11, 2009 , sponsored by the 4 Hawaiian royal benevolent socieites (Royal Order of Kamehameha, 'Ahahui Ka'ahumanu, Hale o Na Ali'i o Hawai'i, and Daughters and Sons of Hawaiian Warriors) was very inspirational.
First to be honored was Senator Daniel Akaka, a long-time congressman and presently Hawai'i's Senator of Hawaiian descent and the only senator of Chinese descent in the US Senate. His son, Dr. Gerard Akaka humbly asked , as would the senator, for the audience's indulgence in reading his father's message as he is busy in Washington , D.C. and could not attend. Ali'i Sir Bill Souza delivered the biographical salute to the one time educator, principal, and devote Christian , Daniel Kahikina Akaka.
Ali'i Sir Ka'uhane Aiu presented Kahu (Rev. ) William Kaina who spoke mainly of Kahu's upbringing in a Christian environment. I remembered his mother, the late Sophie Kaina of S. Kona who was the epitome of aloha. Kahu Kaina was deeply moved and humbled by the honor which consisted of a certificate, a lei maile, and a crystal clear etching of the symbols of each society mounted on wood. He told an amusing story of reading about the namesakes of the various socieites and really identified with Ka'ahumanu. In fact, he said he learned their song, "Lei Ka'ahumanu" better than the songs of the other socieities to which the audience laughed.
Pelekikena (president) Donna Lei Smythe of 'Ahahui Ka'ahumanu spoke on behalf of their member and 2009 recipient, Rev. Ida Keli'i Chun . Aunty Keli'i is well known for her Hawaiian singing and is thought the be the first to record the iconic "Ahulili". Later in life she became a kahu (rev.) herself and was described as being the motor-cycle riding kahu of Kalihi. She met her husband through motor cycling.
Iku Ha'i Nui Hailama Farden of the Hale o Na Ali'i o Hawai'i introduced his aunty, Adelaide Kaiwi Sylva of Lahaina and told very interesting stories about Aunty's skill and knowledge in making the various kinds of poi and her preparation of 'o'opu. I think the audience was touched to her of Aunty's return to Olowalu, her family kulaiwi, and the tears she shed upon entering the compound and visiting the graves of her kupuna. Hailama told of the river which Aunty used to go to wash their clothes and the very rock she used to hammer out the clothing. Previously dry, the river "came to life" and was flowing again upon Aunty's return. She is the last native speaker of Hawaiian from Olowalu.
The day ended with a tribute to Larry Lindsey Kauanoe Kimura by Sarah Keahi of 'Ahahui Mamakakaua: Daughters and Songs of Hawaiian Warriors. Larry or Kauanoe is one of the founders of the 'Ahahui 'Olelo Hawai'i and the 'Aha Punana Leo: Hawaiian Language Preschool, both organizations that helped to advance the revitalization of the learning and speaking of the Hawaiian language. Since growing up on the Parker Ranch and listening to his mother and kupuna, Larry took an interest in recording and preserving the voices of our people and started the first and longest running Hawaiian language radio program which most of us "grew up on" - "Ka Leo Hawai'i" now archived at the University of Hawai'i Hilo campus. Kauanoe told the audience to cherish the Hawaiian language because it is a precious, precious, precious gift for us to hold dearly to. How true and beautiful.
How inspiring and beautiful are the lives of these esteemed persons! Aloha ke Akua.