“Hula is the art of Hawaiian dance, which expresses all we see, smell, taste, touch, feel, and experience. It is joy, sorrow, courage, and fear. ”
– Robert Cazimero
Sometimes we don’t have to cross the ocean to have that “aloha” feeling. Last Saturday there was an amazing Hawaiian themed afternoon at the Grenadier right here in Toronto’s west end. It was a beautiful day and hula dancers graced the outdoor patio entertaining everyone with their gentle swaying movements. A professional hula dancer together with a vibrant, spirited musical accompanist, entertained in the social area upstairs as well. Two parties – both Hawaiian – taking place in the same building. The spirit of aloha abounded here. “The real meaning of Aloha in Hawaiian is that of Love, Peace, and Compassion. It’s the guidelines of how to live – a life of Aloha is one when the heart is so full it is overflowing with the ability to influence others around you with your spirit.” (Local’s Guide to Kauai) The staff at the Grenadier definitely created that Aloha spirit.
– Hawaiian Saying“
The hula dancers were amazing as well as the guests. “Hula is a traditional form of dance developed in the Hawaiian Islands by the original settlers of the islands. This form of dance illustrates stories, meaning and history of the Hawaiian culture. This complex form of art requires many effortless hand motions and body movements used to represent the words in a song or chant.” (indyhula.org) In keeping with the Hawaiian quote below the above collage, everyone seemed to have left shame at home. Many dared to dance and have lots of fun. Those who didn’t dare to dance were visited by the beautiful dancer at their tables demonstrating the hula hand movements. Most people tried these movements out and enjoyed swaying to the music in their chairs or clapping their hands. The singer/accompanist said at the end: “You people know how to party” and the last song he sang was the popular “Aloha” song. Aloha also means “hello” and “goodbye”
The hula kahiko, or ancient form of the dance, was and still is performed in traditional costume, accompanied by chanting and traditional percussion instruments, whilst the hula ‘auana, or modern version of the dance, is more likely to be accompanied by modern instruments such as the ukelele and guitar. The costumes also are more modern, ranging from simple skirts and tops to elaborate Victorian outfits and, for the hotel circuit, plastic “grass” skirts and coconut bras. The hula has 3 purposes: to entertain, to inspire and to instruct. It is a cultural vehicle for social and historical commentary and passing of information. The dances and chants contain a magic that transcends their external power and beauty, filling both dancer and audience with Aloha. (huna.org)
Hamburgers, hotdogs, and beverages were provided for this lovely summer barbecue. Leis were given out to everyone. The spirit of aloha abounded here. Fond memories of my aloha time in Hawaii over thirty-three years ago came back to me. In the picture below, the dancer was at my table and posed and smiled beautifully for me to capture this image.
It’s good to know that the terms “aloha” and “hula” have such deep meaning and significance for the people of Hawaii. It always helps to foster good-will and peaceful relations between cultures when understanding and appreciation of customs exists. It was nice to experience this right here in Toronto.
– Gilbert M. Grosvenor
It was fun putting together these collages after the party and writing this post.
“Aloha”