Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 18, Number 7, 1 July 2001 — Hula preservation [ARTICLE]

Hula preservation

Tiie'Hula Preservation Society is soliciting community support to assist in their effort to document hula styles. Led by Nona Beamer, noted hula master and culturalist, the society is dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of hula. According to Beamer's research, there are 242 types of ancient hula, 25 dance instruments and 82 animal dances including those for the manō (shark), 'īlio (dog) and the kōlea (plover). Contributions to the 501(c)3 organizations will assist in documenting the varying nuances of the hula as practiced by hālau throughout Hawai'i. Beamer learned her hula from her grandmother, Helen Desha Beamer, great-grand-mother Isabella Hale'ala Miller Desha, and mother, Louise Beamer. Marking its first anniversary this month, HPS has received numerous donations from businesses, education institutions, foundations and individuals. Tax deductible donations may be sent to the Hula

Preservation Society, 3319 Pahoa Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816.