Merrie Monarch Extra: Kumu Hula and local fashion designer Micah Kamohoali'i joins us to talk Kahiko

Over the last 60 years, hula has changed — greatly in thanks to the Merrie Monarch Festival.

Interisland steamship travel was depended upon for transporting passengers and cargo to ports on neighbor islands. In 1879, Wilder Steamship Company added the Lehua to its fleet. This mele describes Maui’s notable places seen from her deck–the windward cliffs, Keʻanae and the bays of Piʻilani.

Composed by Hula Master Johnny Lum Ho, this mele describes how the talented paniolo of Waimea skillfully mount wild bulls and ride bucking broncos until they break. Waimea cowboys show you how to lasso and tie the pipi keiki in record time. Hang onto your saddles as we take you to the rodeo of Waimea. UIHA!!!

60th Merrie Monarch Festival Hula ʻAuana

This is a mele composed for the founders, guardians, and caretakers of Ulupō Nui. The name was given by Kailua’s current generation of poʻe aloha ʻāina to the newly restored lands that extend from Ulupō heiau to the banks of the once-and-future fishpond of Kawainui.

Court dancer Emalia Kaihumua spent time away from Hawaiʻi while entertaining on the mainland. She deeply missed the peacefulness and beauty of the Islands. The pinching cold and fog abroad are compared to a lover; however, as her only source of warmth was a fireplace, she is urged to return home.