Hulahula Hoʻoilina

Heritage Dance

Program Lead

Hiwa Vaughan

Kumu Hula Kaiʻilihiwa “Hiwa” Vaughan-Darval is only one of five women in the history of hula to hold both of hula’s most coveted titles. However, her crowning achievement is her most recent iteration as Kumu Hula who reigns over Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine. Kumu Hiwa’s halau is known for its firm foundation in footwork and adherence to hula traditions. Kumu Hiwa educates her haumāna in all aspects of the hula: Oli, ʻOlapa, ʻAuana, ʻOlelo and hula implement making. She hails from an impressive lineage; Palani Vaughan is her father remembered as a beloved musician and historian and her mother is Ipolani Vaughan, a much revered and cherished kumu hula and Hawaiian language teacher.

Program Overview

Overview

Heritage dance in the Pacific refers to dance forms that have been passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in the cultural identities of the various Pacific Island nations and territories. These dances often play a significant role in rituals, ceremonies, storytelling, and social events, preserving the unique cultural heritage of the region. Each Pacific Island nation has its own distinct heritage dances, characterized by specific movements, music, costumes, and meanings. The initiative aims to facilitate cultural exchange by providing platforms for heritage dance groups across the Pacific to present and share their cultural practices.

Heritage Dance Projects

  • Performances: Heritage dance groups will have the opportunity to perform on stages throughout the island to share their traditional dances with various communities. These dance performances offer audiences an opportunity to connect with and learn about the cultural heritage of these groups, creating enriching experiences that blend entertainment with cultural insight.

  • Workshops: Delegations will have the option to conduct dance classes, offering interested participants the chance to learn dance techniques or routines. Participation in this project is entirely voluntary and not obligatory. Interested individuals can sign up in advance for these sessions.

Program Venues and Schedule

Venues

Hawaiʻi Convention Center

Royal Hawaiian Center

Waikīkī Beach Walk

Pālama Settlement

University of Hawaiʻi - West Oʻahu

Windward Mall

Capitol Modern

Our Kakaʻako

Dates

7 – 8 June 2024

10 – 15 June 2024

Times

See Program Schedule