Spectacular show returns to island after 22 year absence
Aloha! If you're heading to Oahu and looking for some free entertainment, catch The Kilohana Hula show-- a modern take on the iconic Kodak Hula Show that ran from 1937-2002 --in Waikiki.
According to the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement The Kilohana Hula Show, which officially launched on Feb. 15, offers a contemporary twist on iconic productions, including the Kodak Hula Show, that were held in the Waikīkī Shell for more than 60 years before ending in 2002. The free, one-hour show is held at 9:30 a.m. Sunday through Thursday at the Waikīkī Shell Amphitheatre.
“What will set the Kilohana Hula Show apart from other productions is that it will exclusively feature hula, mele (songs), chants and traditions from Hawai‘i,” said Kūhiō Lewis, CEO of CNHA. “This unique show will give visitors an opportunity to learn, experience and appreciate the vibrant host culture of the Hawaiian Islands.”
Kilohana translates to the fine outer layer of a decorated sheet of kapa (bark cloth). Metaphorically, it represents excellence in wisdom refined over generations. The show will highlight mele that honors Waikiki, featuring dancers from six award-winning hālau (hula schools) from across Hawai‘i .
Watch the video which will make you want to go in person.
In true Hawaiian fashion, the show embraces the multi-generational nature of these traditions. Musicians, singers and dancers in the show span from kupuna (elders) – some of whom performed in the original Kodak Hula Show – to the most promising young talents.
“This show honors the legacy of King David Kalākaua, who in 1877, dedicated Royal Land as a public space in honor of his beloved wife, Queen Kapi‘olani. Kalākaua was a composer and supporter of music and the arts, and we are humbled to bring authentic song and dance to this special venue at Kapi‘olani Park, free of charge for the public to enjoy,” added Lewis.
In addition to bringing back hula to Waikīkī, CNHA is working with a Native Hawaiian plant specialist to reintroduce native plants to the iconic Waikīkī Shell (plant highlight video).
“When guests come for the hula show, they will not only be able to learn about Native Hawaiian plants, their uses and importance to our people and ʻāina (land), but they will also see them integrated into the show,” said Lewis.
For more information, visit www.experiencekilohana.com.
