A History of Excellence

Last night was the Ho'ike night at the 50th anniversary of the Merrie Monarch Festival. There was high anticipation for what was to occur, and no one was disappointed. The Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium was full to capacity, energy filled the room, and the audience was totally engaged in the performances.

From Skylark's beautiful and thoughtful emceeing to each of the performers, excellence abound. Halau O Kekuhi set the pace with non-stop hula which ranged from their classic hula to their more contemporary offerings. Many of the senior members of the halau were dancing and giving their 200% and best efforts. It was electrifying.

Each group that performed after reminded us all of why we love hula. From dancers who have spent over 50 years on the stage to dancers who are newer to this art form, we were thrilled each time. Hau'oli Hula Maidens, 'Ilima Hula Studio, Na Pualei O Likolehua, Halau Na Kamalei, Waimapuna, and all of the individual recording artists were unbelievable. Each one bringing their special performances which we remember and love. Each doing their very best at what they love to do.

But for me, the Miss Aloha Hula performance was the crowning jewel. Exhibited on the stage was more than these individual dancers who have been recognized as being excellent dancers, on the stage were decades and lifetimes of hula dedication. They represent their hula lineage, they fulfill their Kumu Hula's dream, they carry on a tradition, and they love to dance. You could not help but smile and sway as dancers from 1971 to 20012 danced together. They were beautiful, they danced beautifully, and they were hula. May that vision of hula excellence continue to inspired hula dancers everywhere for many more generations.