HULA is the most powerful expression of Hawaiian culture that exists. The CHANTS and MUSIC accompanying hula are, in essence, ORAL HISTORY OF HAWAI‘I’S NATIVE PEOPLE, passed down from one kumu hula (hula teacher) to another.
King David Kalākaua, who came to the throne in 1874, is credited with reviving hula after it had been declared illegal by Christian missionaries. Embodying hula’s signifi cance in Hawaiian culture, MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL , named for King Kalākaua, was established as an annual showcase for both kahiko (traditional) and ‘auana (contemporary) hula.