Professor Pi‘ilani Hanohano shares her passion for hula and Hawaiian traditions with her students at KCC. (Photo by Nagisa Umemoto)

By Nagisa Umemoto | Staff Writer

At Kapi‘olani Community College, hula classes offer students a chance to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture and values. Approximately 20 KCC students, most of whom are beginners, enroll in each of these classes every semester. Two classes are offered every semester: traditional hula class (DNCE 212) and modern hula class (DNCE 213). In the traditional hula class, students focus on mastering the repertoire and technique. In contrast, the modern hula class emphasizes creativity, allowing students to explore dances that can be applied in contemporary social settings.

Professor C.A. Pi‘ilani Hanohano shares the spirit of Hawaiian culture through hula at KCC. (Photo by Nagisa Umemoto)

Professor Pi‘ilani Hanohano, originally from Aiea, has taught hula at KCC since 2017. As a kumu (teacher), goal is to help KCC students understand and respect Hawaiian traditions. Through the hula class, she emphasizes respecting Hawaiian customs and recognizing that learning is gradual.

At the beginning of each class, it is customary for students to sing the traditional Hawaiian chant, an oli. Before dancing the hula, all students go outside the classroom to sing in unison, while Hanohano remains inside the class to listen to their voices.

“Oli helps students ground themselves in Hawaiian culture, connecting their voices, hearts, and spirits to the values of hula,” Hanohano said.

This ritual not only allows students to immerse themselves in the spiritual essence of Hawaiian culture but also fosters a sense of unity and respect for each other. By engaging in this practice, students connect more deeply with the values and traditions at the heart of hula.

Daiolot Noah, a Nursing major at KCC from Hawai‘i Kai, shared her thoughts on the significance of oli in the class.

“I have learned many olis over the past few years because I learned hula when I was a high school student, but I love our oli because we know the meaning of the words and the importance of singing it every class,” she said. “It brings a sense of purpose to the class and connects us to Hawaiian traditions. Through learning oli, I’ve come to appreciate Hawaiian culture so much more. It has helped me value its deeper meaning and understand its significance better.”

For Hanohano, hula is more than just dance. It’s a way to honor Hawaiian heritage and identity. She teaches her students to be humble and sincere.

“When you want to dance hula, leave your shyness behind,” she says to her DNCE 212 class.

“Do things honestly and correctly, as you’ve been taught,” she says to the students.

Pūʻili are essential wooden sticks used in hula to connect students with Hawaiian culture.(Photo by Nagisa Umemoto)

In hula classes, students not only learn the dance but also engage with the rich traditions of Hawaiian culture. Pūʻili, the wooden sticks they use, play a vital role in this experience. According to Hanohano, the pūʻili is more than just a tool. It serves as a bridge that connects students to the culture and spirit of Hawai‘i through hula. By incorporating the pūʻili into practice, students not only emphasize rhythm and movement but also gain a deeper appreciation of the history and values embedded in Hawaiian culture.”

“Using the Puili was very fun to learn a hula with an implement for the first time,” Noah said. “It was difficult at first because it was my first time using them, but I loved how it helped me connect more with the meaning behind the movements.”

Ikelau Misech, a Liberal Arts major at KCC from Palolo, shared how her experience in the modern hula class has given her a deeper connection to Hawaiian culture. Her motivation for joining the class was to learn hula as a way to connect with Hawaiian culture and better understand its deeper significance.  

“The atmosphere in class is positive, and there’s a lot of great energy,” she said. She is appreciating the supportive environment as she connects with Hawaiian culture. Through learning about the history of Hawaiian music, songs, and hula dance, she feels like she has gained a richer understanding of Hawaii’s traditions.

Through her time in this class, Ikelau has found that learning about Hawaiian culture helps her understand the deep connections within the community and the significance behind traditions. Each lesson brings a new perspective on the history and values that shape daily life in Hawaii, which she truly values. She also appreciates the positive and supportive atmosphere created by the professor.

For students interested in hula, KCC will offer two classes in the spring semester: DNCE 212 (Traditional Hawaiian Dance) and DNCE 213 (Modern Hawaiian Dance). For those interested in learning more about the hula class or with any questions, reach out to Professor Pi‘ilani Hanohano at cahanoha@hawaii.edu.