Hula
Hula Kahiko
with Kumu Hula Kalani Flores-Hatt
"Hanohano Pihanakalani"
Dive into the profound depths of hula kahiko with Kumu Kalani Kaʻawa Flores-Hatt, Jr., as he brings to life the majestic mele hula "Hanohano Pihanakalani." This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the artistry, history, and cultural essence of hula pahu, the revered drum dance.
"Hanohano Pihanakalani" is part of a revered set of four chants composed to honor Queen Kapiʻolani during one of her visits to Kauaʻi, celebrating her as Hāliʻalaulani—"an abundance of heavenly fond reminiscences." This chant recalls the enchanting area of Pihanakalani, nestled behind Wailua, steeped in the legendary story of Kaʻililauokekoa, whose heart is won by the magical flute, Kanikawī. The mokihana berry, unique to Kauaʻi, with its sweet licorice fragrance and the awe-inspiring Waiʻaleʻale and Kawaikini mountains, enrich this mele with the beauty and mana (spiritual power) of the island.
This version of the chant, a cherished hula pahu, was passed down through esteemed traditions, tracing its lineage to Mrs. Hattie Au of Kahana Valley, who learned it from Mr. Sam Pua Haʻaheo.
This workshop is ideal for advanced hula practitioners eager to refine their knowledge of hula pahu and immerse themselves in a profound expression of Hawaiian culture. Whether you are captivated by the rich history, the intricate dance, or the powerful connection to Queen Kapiʻolani’s legacy, this workshop will leave you inspired and empowered.
Join us for this unforgettable experience as we honor the beauty and mana of Hanohano Pihanakalani through the art of hula pahu.
For all hula workshops, participants are expected to wear comfortable attire that allows for ease of movement and is culturally respectful. Additionally, participants should wear a pāʻū or a sarong/pareau suitable for hula practice.
Recommended for ages 8 and older.
Duration: 2 Hours
Class size limit: 30 participants
One time slot available:
-
Workshop Sessions 6 | Saturday, 4:15 PM - 6:15 PM
Your Instructor
Kalani
Kaʻawa
Flores-Hatt
Oʻahu
Mr. Paul Kalani “Boboy” Kaawa Flores-Hatt, Jr. is a proud kupa (native) of the ahupuaʻa of Nānākuli and the moku of Waiʻanae, Oʻahu. He is a College Professor of ʻIke Hawaiʻi and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi as well as the Culture and Place-Based Campus Coordinator and the Title III Project Director at the University of Hawaiʻi at Honolulu Community College.
Mr. Kaawa Flores-Hatt holds a degree in Hawaiian Studies and Language and a graduate degree in Learning Design and Technology from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. He has worked professionally in the field of education (K-12 and higher education combined) for over 20 years. Mr. Kaawa Flores-Hatt, Jr. is also the Kumu Hula of Hālau Nā Pua A Kapiʻolani.
The name Kapiʻolani honors his mother, Kumu Hula April Kapiʻolani Kaawa, who reared him in the hula along with her brother Kumu Hula Joseph Kaawa of Kaleookaʻahumanu Hula Hālau. Both his uncle and his mother were students of Master Kumu Hula John Thomas “Piʻilani” Watkins. After the passing of his uncle in 2004, he received the rights to carry on the hula traditions of his ʻohana. In 2011, he completed formal hula training and received traditional ʻūniki huʻelepo rites in hula ʻōlapa, ʻalaʻapapa, hoʻopaʻa, and hula pahu from Master Kumu Hula Kimo Alama Keaulana.
As an active contributor to his community, Mr. Kaawa Flores-Hatt has served on multiple advisory boards and board of directors for various organizations and businesses along the Leeward Coast of Oʻahu and throughout the state of Hawaiʻi. Mr. Kaawa Flores-Hatt also dedicates his time and efforts to advising and assisting schools, community organizations, and Native Hawaiian serving agencies throughout the state of Hawaiʻi in designing and implementing Culture and Place-Based teaching and learning strategies and 21st-century Native Hawaiian Leadership programs created to encourage aspiring Native Hawaiians and Hawaii residents to become active and engaged participants in their communities.