The 2013 and 50th Anniversary of Merrie Monarch Festival is completed. The costumes have returned home, the adornments have been returned to their resting places, the awards sit proudly in their assigned spot, the hundreds of photos are being reviewed, the beautiful things that were purchased are being admired, and numerous thoughts are being shared. There was nothng like this year. It indeed celebrated those things that we love; hula, music, chant, hana no'eau, food, friends, and enjoyment.
I am grateful for the warm hospitality of the people of Hilo who welcomed hundreds of people into their home. They shared their favorite eating places, parking spots, and stores with us. They were patient with those of us who didn't know where we were going or were impatient to get somewhere. They exhibited the finest qualities of neighbor island living. I'm sure for most of them it is good to get their town back and to get back to their regular routine.
Mahalo to the legions of supporters for each hula dancer. More than could ever be counted; babysitters, van drivers, hair dressers, seamstresses, musicians, cooks, lei makers, those who bought fundraiser items, and those who massaged sore bodies. Each person in the support system was critical to the success of the dancer. If you multiply that by the hundreds of dancers who graced the stage, you have a unbelievable amount of people who support the cultural practice of hula. We are grateful for each of them.
Most of all, mahalo to Luana Kawelu, Kathy, and George who make all of it possible. They work tirelessly and into the early morning so that we can enjoy. I cannot know the particulars of such an immense undertaking, but I am grateful for those who continue to do it year after year. The men of Koa Puna, the many ushers and volunteers, and the royal court. So many Hilo folks who do it for the love of their home and for hula.
So, mahalo to all who contributed to the the Merrie Monarch's 50th Anniversary. We'll see you next year!
April 9, 2013
April 5, 2013
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.
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.
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