Hula
An art form as old as antiquity, with origins in religion. The hula is tied to both spirituality and nature, and is a celebration of life’s mysteries. Instruction includes classical and contemporary Hula, poetic comprehension and historical perspective, Halau protocol, and introduction to community resources. For men and women.
Class Materials: Haumana Hula Handbook
Dress: Women – Pa’u or skirt. Men – comfortable clothing.
Instructor Mahealani Uchiyama, director of KaUaTuahine Polynesian Dance Company.
Ori Tahiti
A dynamic theatre art with fast movement and rhythmic vitality, Ori has come to be known as a symbol of the South Seas. Stresses intricate hip isolation. Instruction includes ‘aparima, ‘ote’a and Tahitian singing, strength and endurance training, gestures appropriate for the dance, familiarization with the Tahitian musical instruments, introduction to the Tahitian language. These classes are appropriate for beginners as well as experienced dancers. For men and women.
Class Materials: Ori, the Dance of Tahiti Handbook, available at M.U.C.I.D.
Dress: A pareu or scarf for the hips. Men – comfortable clothing.
Instructor Mahealani Uchiyama
