by Dennis Augustine
Merry Christmas everybody — or as they say in Hawaii, “Mele Kalikimaka” This is the time of year when Santa leaves his sleigh at the North Pole and arrives in Maui on his outrigger with his helpers (see photo!)
Hula has a timeless place in Hawaiian culture—beloved by adults and pure magic for children. Sitting poolside with front-row seats, we were close enough to feel every movement and emotion.
This youth hula show at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club added a joyful holiday touch, with “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” sung and danced to in both Hawaiian and English .
In hula, the hands tell the story—
the ocean
the wind
love, land, and aloha
All the dancers were mostly children—the youngest just four—and Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus were completely mesmerized. Watching culture passed on with such confidence and joy was truly inspiring.
