Kū Mai Ka Hula Delivers Outstanding Performances

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2023 Kū Mai Ka Hula

Delivers Outstanding Performances

On September 9th, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center presented the 16th Annual Kū Mai Ka Hula competition, a spectacular showcase of Hawaiian arts and culture. Presented by Kauahea Inc., this year’s event transcended boundaries, featuring participants from Maui, Kaua‘i, and even Japan. The vibrant celebration came to life, filling the venue with the mesmerizing colors, oli (chant) and mele (song), and graceful movements of hula.

Ledcor Maui was proud to support Kū Mai Ka Hula once again as its Ka Wēkiu Sponsor.

At the heart of Kū Mai Ka Hula is the unwavering dedication of individuals like kumu hula Hōkūlani Holt and her entire team. Their tireless efforts in organizing and presenting this cultural experience deserve our deepest appreciation. Mahalo nui loa for transforming the 2023 Kū Mai Ka Hula competition into a vibrant reality.

The Castle Theater at Maui Arts & Cultural Center witnessed breathtaking performances from six hālau, each showcasing their finest in both kahiko and ‘auana divisions. The judging panel, featuring esteemed figures in the world of hula—Kumu Hula Iwalani Kalima, Kumu Hula Ulalia Woodside, Kumu Hula Kamaka Kukona, and Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata—faced the challenging task of evaluating the outstanding presentations

And the Winners Are…

The competition recognized excellence in various categories, with standout performances from hālau across the board. The winners for the 16th Annual Kū Mai Ka Hula competition are as follows:

Mr. Hula Maui: 1st Place: Tyson Kekoa Tango / Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano / Kumu Hula Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro 2nd Place: Okuto Horiuchi / Hālau Hula Mānaiakalani Iāpana / Nā Kumu Hula Kapono & Kanoenani Kamaunu
Group Kahiko Kāne: 1st Place: Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano / Kumu Hula Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro
Group Kahiko Wāhine: 1st Place: Hālau ʻO Kealani / Yukiko Minami 2nd Place: Hālau Keʻala Kahinano O Puna / Kumu Hula Joy Keōpūolani Salvador
Group ‘Auana Kāne: 1st Place: Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano / Kumu Hula Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro
Group ‘Auana Wāhine: 1st Place: Hālau ʻO Kealani / Yukiko Minami 2nd Place: Hālau Keʻala Kahinano O Puna / Kumu Hula Joy Keōpūolani Salvador
Group ‘Auana Kūpuna: 1st Place: Hālau ʻO Kealani / Yukiko Minami 2nd Place: Hālau Hula ʻO Mehanaokala / Kuʻulei Hashimoto 3rd Place: Hālau Hula I Kona Mau Lima / Kumu Hula Kēhaulani Kaneholani-Santiago

Special Awards:

Palikūmaikalewalani Oli Award: Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano / Kumu Hula Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro
Maui Nui Award: Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano / Kumu Hula Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro
Leianaikaroselaniomaui Award: Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hinano / Kumu Hula Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro
‘Ōlelo Makuahine Award: Hālau Hula I Kona Mau Lima / Kumu Hula Kēhaulani Kaneholani-Santiago

As the curtains closed on the 2023 Kū Mai Ka Hula competition, the echoes of Hawaiian chants and graceful movements lingered in the air. This event not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii but also highlighted the dedication and passion of those committed to preserving and advancing the art of hula. Warmest congratulations to all participants and winners, and a heartfelt mahalo to everyone involved in making this celebration of culture a resounding success. Until next year, a hui hou!

PC: Marsha Aguon