2016 Hula Kahiko series starts Saturday

The Volcano Art Center’s 2016 Hula Kahiko series begins at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with a performance by Na kumu hula Pelehonuamea Harman and Kekoa Harman with Halau I Ka Leo Ola O Na Mamo.

The students of Halau I Ka Leo Ola O Na Mamo come from the Hawaiian language immersion school Ke Kula o Nawahiokalaniopuu. The school’s mission has been to perpetuate the Hawaiian language and culture through mele and hula. All classes are conducted through the medium of Hawaiian.

This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. For the series, hula halau from across Hawaii are invited to perform each month in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting at the kahua hula (platform) within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These performances are presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats.

Held in conjunction with the Hula Kahiko performances, the public is invited to join native Hawaiian culture specialist Loke Kamanu and her ohana as they set up shop on the lanai of the Volcano Art Gallery from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Presenting a display of “Na Mea Hula” (all things hula), Kamanu will share a variety of instruments, implements and lei styles that play an integral role in the life of the hula practitioner.

These free events are supported in part by a grant from the County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development and the Hawaii Tourism Authority. National Park entrance fees apply.

Info: www.volcanoartcenter.org, 967-8222