Patrick Makuakāne, an influential hula dancer and choreographer, shares his vibrant journey from traditional hula in Hawaii to establishing a school in San Francisco. He discusses the cultural significance of hula as a form of expression and identity, touching on its historical evolution and modern adaptations. Makuakāne highlights the balance between tradition and innovation, and reflects on the political themes woven into hula performance, particularly during the AIDS crisis. His passion for storytelling and community shines throughout this engaging conversation.
Patrick Makuakāne's journey highlights the importance of embracing one's identity in cultural expressions like hula, fostering personal and communal growth.
The grassroots advocacy against pollution in Cancer Alley illustrates the power of community unity in addressing environmental health issues.
Deep dives
Cancer Alley: Community Resistance
A region along the Mississippi River, known as Cancer Alley, experiences cancer rates significantly higher than the national average, primarily due to the concentration of petrochemical plants. Residents are actively pushing back against these industrial giants to protect their health and environment. The community's fight is marked by unity and advocacy, as individuals rally together to address ongoing pollution issues. This grassroots movement emphasizes local voices rising against corporate practices that threaten public health.
Patrick Makuakane's Hula Journey
Patrick Makuakane's journey in hula began at the age of 13, where he found a meaningful connection to his cultural heritage. Initially, he struggled with the traditional expectations of hula, particularly regarding masculinity and representation. His experience shifted after witnessing an all-male hula group, which inspired him to embrace and represent his identity in dance. Makuakane later established his own hula school, where he successfully blended traditional elements with contemporary expression, offering a space for diverse participants to engage with the art.
The Evolution of Hula
Hula is deeply tied to the Hawaiian language and cultural narratives, functioning as more than just choreography. The art form conveys stories and emotions through movement and accompanying chants, emphasizing the importance of understanding the language. Makuakane adapts this tradition by experimenting with different genres of music, illustrating that hula can evolve while remaining rooted in its cultural significance. This blending of traditional and modern elements encourages more people to appreciate and participate in hula, broadening its reach and understanding.
Cultural Responsibility and Community
The concept of kuleana, or responsibility, plays a crucial role in Makuakane's mission to maintain a connection to Hawaiian culture for those living outside of Hawaii. His hula school serves not only as a place to learn dance but as a community space where individuals can gather, share, and support each other. This sense of belonging is vital in creating an inclusive environment for diverse communities to engage with Hawaiian culture. By nurturing this cultural connection, Makuakane fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for hula and its transformative power.
One Saturday night in the 90s, Patrick Makuakāne and about 15 other hula dancers showed up to a club in San Francisco they called Old Dreamland. "It didn’t feel like taking risks. Because no one was there to tell me 'what the hell are you doing?'"
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