Introduction

When you think of dancing, what comes to mind? A birthday party or wedding reception, maybe? Or perhaps a choreographed routine set to music and performed in front of an audience. That’s all well and good, but it pales in comparison to the experience of hula dancing in Reno, Nevada. The (Hawaiian hula) tradition was brought to Hawaii by Polynesians who migrated there centuries ago, and today it can be found in every corner of the state’s diverse culture.

The hula combines all the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas with the musical styling of Hawaii and Polynesia. Hula is an ancient Polynesian dance whose vibrant movements come from the deep spiritual connection people have with the land and each other—it truly doesn’t get much more authentic than this.

What Is Hula?

Hula is a ceremonial dance form that originated with the indigenous people of Hawaii centuries ago. It was traditionally performed as an expression of love for their gods, to honour their dead, and as entertainment celebrations. There are many types of hula, but most often, it is accompanied by chanting or singing.

The dancers typically wear elaborate costumes called a’u, which are made from a variety of materials such as coconut leaves, shells, feathers and animal skins. Today there is more than one style of hula taught in Reno’s growing Hawaiian community, including Kahiko (traditional), Aloha (love), and Auana (modern).

Types of Hula to Expect in Reno

Kahiko

Kahiko is the traditional form of hula that strives to maintain the authenticity of ancient movements. Kahiko is a very disciplined style with specific hand gestures, footwork, chants, and posture. It is an ancient style that has been passed down through generations by word of mouth. The Kahiko dancers are usually more experienced performers who have a deep knowledge of the history of their art form. The dance was traditionally used to entertain and honor the chiefs who traveled from different places.

Aloha

Aloha is a traditional dance from Hawaii with origins in Polynesian people. The word Aloha literally means love, kindness, and affection. Aloha is often thought to be the first dance that was created. It has been an integral part of Hawaii’s culture for centuries. Aloha is typically performed by hula dancers who use their hips, hands, arms, shoulders and ahead to create fluid movements across the dance floor as they tell a story through dance.

Auana

Auana is a style of hula that is more modernized than Kahiko. It incorporates Western instruments, such as guitars and drums, with traditional songs. The dancers are based on the movements of animals such as lions and peacocks. Auana can be done to fast or slow songs, depending on which type you’re dancing to.

Tahitian-Style Hula

Hawaiian hula is one of the most beautiful dances you will ever see. Tahitian-style hulas are equally hypnotic. The dance was originally brought to Hawaii by the Polynesians who came over on their canoes thousands of years ago. Tahitian-style hula dancers tell their stories through their dance, using the movements to demonstrate what is happening in the story. It is a very difficult form to master but is so elegant when done well that it’s worth the hard work and definitely worth watching.

Let’s Set it Straight: The Difference Between Hula and Polynesian Dance

Hula originates from the Polynesian culture. As discussed above, there are many different types of hulas, each honouring their own island culture through movements, chants, and music. The word hula means to move or sway from side to side. Polynesian dance is also a type of dance that originated from the Polynesian cultures, but it has different origins than hula. It is more focused on mimicking ancient tribal dances, which then evolved into modern-day performances where they often imitate natural elements like wind and water.

Four Reasons to Celebrate Hula in Reno

For an Intimate Experience

There are few things more captivating than watching the graceful, fluid movements of hula dancers up close; you’ll be mesmerized by their grace. There is no better way to explore all that Reno has to offer than with your loved ones or friends at a Hula performance. With countless professional dance groups, social clubs, and community events, there is no shortage of opportunities to celebrate this centuries-old tradition with those around you.

To See Beautiful Costumes

The bright colors, unique patterns and intricate designs on each consume represent a part of the island’s history. Hula costumes are elaborate and beautiful. The dancers wear a pareau (skirt) and malo (loincloth). Some dancers wear additional layers that vary from ikat or tapa cloth to intricately beaded necklaces, bracelets, anklets, headbands, and belts. All the while, they are expressing the movements of their hands.

If you’re into dancewear, check out those low-rise shorts—simple and elegant.

To Feel Connected to Our Roots

Hawaiian music is often accompanied by drums, called pahu, or ‘ukulele’ (a small guitar-like instrument), which symbolize communication between Hawaiians past and present.

The evolution of Hawaiian hula has been a fascinating study that celebrates our connection to our roots and encourages us to continue practising these ancient traditions for generations to come.

To Celebrate Hawaiian Culture

Hula is a traditional form of dance that originated in Hawaii. It’s an important part of the culture, tradition, and history that makes up Hawaii. It has become an integral part of American entertainment but also maintains its importance as a symbol for preserving cultural identity among native Hawaiians.

How Can You Get Involved in the Celebration of a Decade of Hula in Reno?

Take Hula Classes

If you’re interested in the dance form, there are classes for children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. If you are worried that you haven’t taken dancing classes before or have two left feet, you are not alone. Many people who have never taken hula classes before often find it hard to keep up. But giving yourself time to get into the dance rhythm is easier than you might think. You just need to stay light on your feet and enjoy the music.

And when you want to get a sense of what movements come next, look at other dancers’ hands for cues. And don’t worry about making mistakes—that happens to everyone. The key to enjoying yourself while having a good time is not being afraid to make mistakes or ask questions.

Make a Donation

If you want to make a financial contribution, donate to one of the many hula fundraisers that happen throughout the year. They happen to support scholarships and festivals. Some of these events include a scholarship to help pay tuition for local students who want to learn about the culture or study abroad in Hawaii but can’t afford it without financial assistance. You can also donate to hula companies that may need your donations. That way, they can continue their business and teach future generations about the culture.

Attend Hula Events in Reno

If you want to be an audience member or volunteer, find out when events are happening and head over to enjoy the show. Attending hula events will help you learn more about hula and other forms of traditional Polynesian dance. The day-long event offers a variety of classes, performances, workshops and demonstrations to help visitors experience the culture first-hand.

Join a Hula Community

If you want to become more deeply immersed in the culture and lifestyle of hula, consider joining a dedicated group or being on a production team. Hula is not just a dance form; it’s a community. Joining one is beneficial because you get to be surrounded by people who are passionate about the same thing you are, understand your goals, and support you in your journey.

They will help you grow as an individual through their expertise and wisdom, no matter how much or little experience they may have had with hula themselves. If someone has been doing the hula for over ten years, then they’re probably teaching a beginner class somewhere in Reno. Who knows? You just might make a friend too.

Conclusion

Celebrating hula has become a big part of what people think about when they think about Reno, Nevada. It has become an integral part of the culture here, especially for residents. There are many benefits to learning how to dance the hula: it’s good for the body and mind, it makes you feel empowered, and it’s great for self-expression. The longer you practice this ancient dance form, the more skills you will develop—from increased endurance to better balance. Dancing can also help you live longer!

As a side note, those who learn the hula are also able to incorporate other types of dances into their repertoire as well. Ballet? Swing dancing? You name it. You’re now equipped with a whole new set of moves to show off at your next fancy event. As you celebrate a decade of hula, have fun shopping at bukit, the best in Reno shopping. Their prices are fair, and their products are world-class. Whether you are looking for the best boutiques in Reno, Nevada, to rock your next outfit or for self-care items, bukit has something for everyone.