"Hula is the heart, therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people" -David Kalākaua
Hula is the heartbeat of Hawai'i. In ancient times, the dance was much more than a form of entertain- ment; it honored the gods and the ali'i (nobility); it chronicled important historical events; it was a part of religious ceremonies; and it served as the foundation for lua, a style of hand-to-hand-combat requiring great speed, strength and agility. It was the last king of the Hawaiian Islands, David Kalakaua, who fought to revive this Hawaiian tradition, and it was his love of the ancient art of hula which earned him the nickname "The Merrie Monarch."
For the past 46 years, this prestigious competition has become a celebration of hula in the name of David Kalakaua. Many of the best hula hälau from all across the world have been invited to the remark- able Merrie Monarch Festival. Every dancer who is fortunate enough to perform at this annual event perpetuates an important cultural tradition that celebrates and honors their ancestors.