The U.S. state of Maryland may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of hula dancing. Located in the mid-Atlantic region, thousands of miles from its birthplace in Hawaii, it may seem like an odd choice for hula enthusiasts to gather. However, every weekend in downtown Silver Spring, a group of dedicated dancers gather to practice this ancient form of storytelling. Despite the distance, the love and passion for hula knows no boundaries.
Hula is more than just a dance, it is a way of life for the Hawaiian people. The dance, which uses graceful hand and body movements, tells stories of their culture, legends, and traditions. It has been passed down for generations, preserving the culture and history of the island state. Today, hula has spread beyond Hawaii and has gained popularity in many different parts of the world, including the unlikely location of Maryland.
The hula group in Silver Spring is led by VOA’s very own Keith Lane, who has been dedicated to spreading this beautiful art form since the early 2000s. Lane, a native of Hawaii, has been teaching hula to students from all walks of life, regardless of their background or experience. He believes that hula should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live.
The hula class in Silver Spring is a diverse group, with members ranging from young children to retirees. Many of them have no prior experience in hula or Hawaiian culture, but they are drawn to the dance’s beauty and the sense of community it fosters. For them, hula is a way to connect with a culture that may seem far off, but becomes familiar and relatable through their dedication to the dance.
As the group gathers for their weekly practice, the sounds of Hawaiian music fill the room, transporting them to the island state. The dancers, dressed in traditional costumes, move gracefully to the music, their hands and bodies telling the stories of ancient Hawaii. Despite being miles away from the tropical paradise, their dedication and passion for hula make it feel like they are right there on the beaches of Hawaii.
The hula class not only teaches the art of dancing but also celebrates the culture and traditions of Hawaii. Lane often incorporates elements of Hawaiian history and language into the lessons, making it a rich and educational experience for the students. Through hula, they learn about the beauty and complexity of Hawaiian culture, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for it.
For many of the dancers, hula has become more than just a hobby, it has become a way of life. It has given them a sense of purpose and a community to belong to. As they perfect their techniques and learn new dances, they also form bonds with one another, creating a hula ohana, or family. Through the ups and downs of life, they find comfort and support in their hula family, united by their love for this ancient art form.
The group’s passion and dedication have not gone unnoticed. They have been invited to perform at various community events, sharing the beauty of hula with others. Their performances have been met with great enthusiasm and appreciation, showing that hula has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
In a world where cultural barriers sometimes seem insurmountable, the hula class in Silver Spring is a shining example of how the love for a shared art form can bring people from different backgrounds and walks of life together. Through their dedication to hula, they have not only preserved a beautiful art form but also created a sense of community in an unlikely place.
So the next time you find yourself in Silver Spring, make sure to check out the hula class and witness the beauty and magic of this ancient dance. And who knows, you may just find yourself caught up in the rhythm, moving your hands and hips to the enchanting sounds of Hawaiian music. Aloha!
