Hula Dancing is a form of dance originating from the Hawaiian Islands. It is characterized by complex hand, waist and leg movements, and is used to convey a message or tell a story.

Hula is a traditional dance from Hawaii, which dates back hundreds of years. Dancers perform intricate hand gestures and foot movements to tell a story about the past. It was originally performed as a religious and cultural activity to honor royalty and the gods. Today it is mostly a form of entertainment for visitors to Hawaii.

Tell a story through signing, chanting, hand gestures and foot movements.

There are no established rules for hula, as it is traditionally not a competitive sport. There are, however, standard practices that one follows when performing, such as properly incorporating hand gestures and traditional implements.

There are various Hawaiian legends surrounding the origins of hula, all involving violent struggles between the traditional Hawaiian gods. It was widely practiced until the 1820's, when the newly-Christianized royalty had it banned. During the first Hawaiian Renaissance in the late 1800's, hula was revived and updated. A new form - hula ku'i - was created to incorporate all historic poetry, singing, dancing and costumes. By the early 20th century, hula had become a spectacle used to entertain tourists. Today hula is still practiced for both entertainment and cultural purposes.

Costumes (vary based on occasion)
Ipu
Kala'au
Pahu
Pu'ili
Punio

Hula is a safe activity, not known to cause injury. Regardless, participants should properly stretch and warm-up prior to attempting.

Hula's many different chants, hand gestures and foot movements take much time to master. These should only be taught be an experienced teacher. Schools and teachers are prevalent throughout Hawaii.

Halau - traditional school where hula is taught

Hula 'auana - modern hula developed in the 19th and 20th centuries

Ipu - single gourd drum

Kahiko - ancient style of hula performed before Western encounters with Hawaii

Kala'au - rhythm sticks

Mele - chant or song recited during hula

Pahu - sharkskin covered drum

Pu'ili - split bamboo sticks

Punio - small knee drum made of a coconut shell and fish skin

Ukulele - small four-stringed guitar of Hawaiian origin

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hula