Hula Terms 101

You hear the Hawaiian language entertwined with the culture's dance. But do you know what they mean? Here are definitions for some of the terms.

Alaka'i - instructor; often used when referring to kumu hula's (teacher) assistant

Auana - modern version of the hula

Halau - Long house for canoes or hula instruction; hula school

Ho`i - exit (dancers can chant or have a song as they exit)

Ipuheke - gourd instrument without a top

Kahiko - traditional version of the hula

Ka`i - entrance (dancers can chant or have a song as they enter)

Kala`au - stick dancing

Kane - man or men

Kumu Hula - hula teacher

Mele - song

Oli - chant

Pahu - drum

Pahu Puniu - thigh drum

Pu'ili - dancing implement made with bamboo

`Uli`uli - gourd instrument with filled with seeds and topped with colorful feathers

Wahine - woman or women

Miss Aloha Hula's Interview

Winner's Kahiko

Winner's Auana

2nd Place Kahiko

3rd Place Kahiko

3rd Place Auana

4th Place Kahiko

4th Place Auana