Hula Kahiko

General Info

-ancient hula -accompained by oli (chant) -more brisk and fast paced movements

musical accompaniment

-chant or song -pahu (drum) -ipu (gourd)

Hawaiian Geography

-since Hawaii is geographically farther away from Saoma, Tonga, and Fiji, its dance and movements are quite different than those found in western Polynesia

Structure

1. kai (entrance): performed in Oli style 2. mele (song): performed by ho'opa'a (singers and instrumentalists) 3. Hoi (exit)

Purpose and Meaning

1. often created to praise chiefs (performed in their honor or to entertain them) 2. many considered to be a religious performance (dedicated to or honoring a Hawaiian deity) 3. used to record history, fiugres, mythology, and creation (pass on knowledge and story through mele)

Laka

Patron goddess of song and dance