Everything You Wanted to Know About the Luau Dance

Centuries before luaus became accessible to Hawaii’s visitors, hula dancers were so revered that they performed in sacred temples, battlefields, and royal courts. In fact, hula encapsulated history, mythology, and prayer into movement so powerful that 19th-century missionaries tried to erase it entirely.

Though hula has evolved over time, it remains a vital expression of Hawaiian identity. Today, visitors can experience two primary forms of this dance, each carrying its own connection to Hawaii’s past and present.

Hula Kahiko is the traditional form of hula. Performed with chants (Oli) and accompanied primarily by traditional instruments, such as the ipu heke (double gourd), bamboo sticks (pu‘ili), or the pahu drum. Kahiko embodies ancient Hawaiian spirituality, myths, and storytelling traditions. Kahiko translated into old, ancient, antique, primitive, long ago, beforehand.

Hula ʻAuana is the contemporary version. It’s typically set to more melodic music incorporating western instruments such as the ukulele or guitar and can range from lively to slow tempos and can be playful or fluid in motion. In Hawaiian, ʻAuana means to wander, drift, go from place to place.

Yet no matter the style, every gesture and chant preserve a story passed down through generations.

Ahead, we’ll discuss the history of the luau dance, its lasting significance in Hawaiian traditions, how it’s evolved over the years, and where you can go to see some truly breathtaking performances.

The Roots of Luau Dance in Hawaiian History

At today’s luaus, you’ll come across these two forms of hula, a dance whose history is so much richer and more meaningful than many may realize. While luaus offer an exciting glimpse into Hawaiian tradition, hula itself dates back centuries, long before it became the joyful centerpiece of island celebrations.

According to Hawaiian mythology, hula actually began as a gift from the gods, particularly Pele, the fiery goddess of volcanoes – and ancient Hawaiians used hula as a way to pass down stories, celebrate their chiefs, honor nature, and preserve their heritage.

In the past, learning hula (hula kahiko) required intense discipline and skilled dancers were respected for their mastery of movement and the important stories they told.

The modern form of hula (hula ʻauana) brings a lighter, graceful style that blends traditional movements with contemporary music and melodies. ʻAuana performances often highlight themes of love, nature, and everyday Hawaiian life, allowing dancers to express their creativity while continuing to honor their rich heritage.

The Suppression and Revival of Hula

Despite its sacred status, hula’s survival was threatened in the 19th century. Around the 1820s, missionaries arrived in Hawaii and viewed hula as a threat – an expression of pagan beliefs that had no place in their vision of a “civilized” society. The rhythmic chants, the fluid yet powerful movements, and the traditional attire scandalized them – and by the mid-1800s, hula faced outright suppression. Public performances were banned, schools discouraged its practice, and Hawaiian culture itself was pushed to the margins.

But hula was never truly silenced. In hidden spaces, far from watchful eyes, practitioners continued teaching the dance to preserve its stories and traditions within families and tight-knit communities.

Then came King David Kalākaua, also known as the “Merrie Monarch,” who saw the eradication of Hawaiian culture and refused to let it proceed. During his reign from 1874 to 1891, he championed a cultural renaissance to bring hula back into the public eye. It was under his influence that the dance regained its rightful place as a respected art form and a powerful symbol of Hawaiian identity.

The Advent of Hapa Haole Hula

As hula reemerged in the public eye, it began to evolve alongside Hawaii’s changing social landscape. By the early 20th century, Western culture – brought by travelers, musicians, and the growing tourism industry – began to shape a new style of hula known as hapa haole. This form of modern ʻauana hula combined traditional Hawaiian dance movements with melodies and lyrics that often incorporated English and Hawaiian, creating the accessible and entertaining Hula currently seen in Hawaii today.

You’ll see this style of hula at Rock-A-Hula, where performers present hapa haole hula as part of their nightly shows. The performance highlights the blend of Hawaiian tradition with Western culture, offering audiences a look at how hula has evolved over time. While modern in presentation, hapa haole hula continues to reflect the deeper roots and resilience of Hawaiian culture.

Why Hula Is More Than Entertainment

Despite its popularity at luaus and stage shows, hula is far more than just performance art. In truth, traditional hula attire and practice were rooted in discipline and cultural significance, guided by kumu hula in hālau dedicated to preserving ancestral knowledge.

Today, while hula has adapted for wider audiences, its core remains a living tradition that continues to honor Hawaii’s history and identity.

Where to See a Hula Performance on Oahu

One of the best ways to experience authentic hula on Oahu is by attending the island’s major annual festivals, such as the world-famous Merrie Monarch Festival, the vibrant Aloha Festivals, and the community-focused Prince Lot Hula Festival.

These events showcase both traditional kahiko and modern ʻauana performances by dancers from across the islands, highlighting the richness of Hawaiian culture and storytelling.

Additionally, luaus provide an accessible and enjoyable way to witness hula, blending entertainment with cultural heritage to create a memorable island experience.

Experience the Best Luau in Waikiki

If you’re ready to witness the elegance, power, and storytelling of luau dance for yourself, join us at Rock-A-Hula. Our nightly shows offer an authentic taste of today’s Hawaiian culture, featuring breathtaking performances of modern hula ʻauana, exhilarating fire knife dancing, and so much more.

The Original Waikiki Luau Buffet & Show

An unforgettable evening of Hawaiian culture, the Original Waikiki Luau Buffet & Show starts with a welcome mai tai and an all-you-can-eat luau buffet in our open-air thatched-roof Hawaiian Pavilion.

Enjoy a feast, all prepared in-house, with roasted luau pig, prime roast beef, teriyaki chicken, macadamia nut-crusted fish, Hawaiian and island favorite desserts, and fresh tropical fruits.

As you dine you’ll experience live hula performances, live Hawaiian music, and an interactive hula lesson by professional hula dancers before moving to the Royal Hawaiian Theater for Rock-A-Hula, Waikiki’s Biggest Hawaiian Show.

This high-energy performance takes you through Hawaii’s musical history with hula, fire knife dancing, and live musicians. The night ends with an exclusive Meet & Greet with the cast.

The VIP Waikiki Luau Buffet & Show

The VIP Waikiki Luau Buffet & Show includes everything in the Original experience, plus an orchid lei greeting by a hula dancer, priority access to the buffet, an additional cocktail, and the best seating in the house at Royal Hawaiian Theater for Rock-A-Hula. This elevated experience is perfect for those looking for a premium luau with an upscale touch, all within walking distance of Waikiki’s best hotels.

The Green Room Waikiki Luau Buffet & Show

The Green Room Waikiki Luau Buffet & Show offers the most exclusive Rock-A-Hula experience, beginning with a private Green Room reception where guests receive an orchid lei greeting, enjoy pupus (appetizers), and take a backstage tour guided by a cast member. After a welcome mai tai and champagne toast, guests head to the outdoor thatched-roof Hawaiian Pavilion for first access to the all-you-can-eat luau buffet, featuring a whole roasted luau pig, prime roast beef, fresh catch of the day, Hawaiian sides, and island-inspired desserts. Live hula entertainment, strolling ukulele musician, and a hula lesson create an immersive cultural experience before the evening moves to the Royal Hawaiian Theater.

With premier Green Room seating in the first three center rows, guests are up close to the action for Rock-A-Hula, a stunning journey through Hawaii’s musical history featuring hula, Tahitian, fire knife dancing, and live musicians. The night concludes with a cast Meet & Greet and a souvenir photo to remember the experience. Perfect for those seeking a truly VIP evening, this package offers an unforgettable blend of Hawaiian hospitality, world-class entertainment, and behind-the-scenes access.

The Lasting Significance of Luau Dance

The luau dance is a living expression of Hawaii’s past and present. While it has evolved over time, it remains a powerful form of cultural storytelling that connects generations of Hawaiians and travelers. Whether performed at a large luau or in a small family gathering, luau continues to be a way for Hawaiians to celebrate their heritage and share their history with the world.

For those planning a visit to Hawaii, taking the time to watch an authentic hula and at luau can be a deeply enriching (and fun!) experience.

For an unforgettable evening filled with Hawaiian music, storytelling, and delicious cuisine, check out one of Waikiki’s most celebrated luau experiences at one of Waikiki Luau & Rock-A-Hula Shows.

 

Sources:

• https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/the-surprising-history-of-hawaiis-hula-tradition
• https://www.history.com/articles/native-hawaiian-sovereignty-protest