Hawaii is paradise. It sounds cheesy to say it, but there’s music in the air there.
—Bruno Mars
"May you have grace in your step, song in your hand and Aloha in your heart.”
—Hula Blessing
This was a belated birthday gift from Michelle & Kyle & Jason for Cecile; that included Jason’s partner Alix, and myself. It all began with a Mai Tai greeting, a fresh flower lei I placed over Cecile and Michelle's neck, a hula performance that included audience participation, a lavish Polynesian buffet & open bar, and authentic Imu ceremony (underground oven for the Kalua pig). Our granddaughter Lyla colorfully dressed for the occasion was absolutely mesmerized by her very first lu'au. I brought her close enough to the stage to experience the older kids invited up to do the hula, that in ancient times was performed by men.
Sharing the legends and stories of Maui and Polynesia, the Drums of the Pacific re-enacts the contrast
of various island cultures, from the lyrical hula to the spectacular Samoan fire-dance, to the pulsating drum dances of Tahiti. The revue emphasizes the connection and similarities across cultures, including how guests
are welcomed. Polynesian cultures demand visitors or guests be treated well, fed well and welcomed with songs and dances, a lu‘au is an expression of hospitality at the highest level, where everyone gets treated like family (Ohana).
We saw nine performances including, “Tiare” a breathtaking signature performance showcase, that delves into the legend comparing the first woman created and the delicate French gardenia, the TIare flower.
Throughout the world, feasting has been a universal form of celebrating important events.
The Polynesians, and especially Hawaiians, have evolved this great pleasure into a unique cultural experience and culinary art form. At its' roots, was not just an ordinary meal, but a large feast with many people invited to the gathering. King Kalakaua was known for his love of giving parties and his love of the hula, earning him the nickname, the Merry Monarch. He threw a bountiful luau for his 50th birthday and invited over 1,500 guests.
Here is a poetic offering called
Luau Memories
by Tatyana Carney
Frozen flower punch
Hibiscus blossoms for your ears
Luau skirts and fire rings
Streamers hanging in ther air
Cocktails soaked in pineapples
Roasting pit coals
Anklets jangling on your feet
Ambrosia mint in bowls
Smiles to pass with every song
Laugher jewels the moon
Eating the afternoon away
wit a Polynesian spoon
