Hula at the Embassy Suite Waikiki

In Hawaiian there are many traditions that are part of the colorful states past and are continued to this very day. Some of the more common traditions include: the hula, the luau, lei-giving. There are also other traditions that take place during special occasions.

The hula is a dance that is performed by sitting (noho dance) or standing (luna dance). It was first developed by Polynesians that is accompanied by a chant (oli) or song (mele). In the ancient tradition of the dance the kahiko is performed with chants and traditional instruments. Once the arrival of instruments from the western world, this dance changed somewhat. The modern hula dance is known as the auana, which is accompanied by song and musical instruments such as the ukele and the guitar.

This traditional dance still lives on to this very day and is taught to others in a group or school. The hula is unique to the island of Hawaii, although similar dances can be found in Polynesian islands that are located in other parts of the world. The other islands that have a traditional dance that is similar to the hula are; the Cook Islands, New Zealand, Tahiti, Samoa and Tonga.

The art of the hula dance takes some time to learn. Whether performing the noho or luna dance there are specific movements that must be performed by the body, as well as the hands or the feet. When learning the art of the hula dance in a school, each student must chant a permission chant and wait for a response from the teacher before they can perform their dance.

Historical chants are still used today and are known as a religious ceremony to entertain or praise the gods that this nationality worshipped. Traditional costumes were common many centuries ago. At one time, the female dancers performed topless, but this has since changed. Today, the pau, or everyday skirt, worn by the women is much longer then in previous centuries.

Traditional jewelry was also worn. Necklaces, bracelets, anklets and leis adorned both men and women. The men often wore dog teeth bracelets around the ankle. These make unique sounds as the dancers stamp their feet. Their clothing consisted of a loincloth which is known as an everyday malo.

In ancient times this dance was performed to amuse and entertain the high chief or chieftress, who went around to the various villages within his region. The people that he visited were responsible for his lodgings, food, and entertainment.

Today these traditions can still be found when you book an escape at the Embassy Suite Waikiki. The manager and staff will ensure that you will thoroughly enjoy your lodgings, the traditional and international menu, as well as the spectacular entertainment that they have to offer. Go ahead and book a vacation to the beautiful, Hawaiian island of Oahu, and stay in the magnificent Embassy Suites Waikiki. Their hospitality as well as the traditions of the Hawaiian people will last with you a lifetime.