Maryland may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of hula dancing. Located in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, it may seem like an unlikely destination for this ancient form of storytelling. However, every weekend in downtown Silver Spring, a group of dedicated dancers gather to practice and celebrate hula, despite the thousands of miles between them and its birthplace in Hawaii. This is a testament to the power and beauty of hula, and the passion and dedication of its practitioners.
Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance that combines graceful movements with storytelling through hand gestures and facial expressions. It has been a part of Hawaiian culture for centuries, passed down through generations as a way to preserve history and honor the gods. Today, hula has spread beyond the shores of Hawaii and has become a popular form of dance and cultural expression around the world.
In Maryland, hula has found a home in the heart of Silver Spring. Every weekend, dancers of all ages and backgrounds come together to practice and perform at the Silver Spring Civic Building. Led by experienced hula instructor, Kumu Hula (master hula teacher) Mahealani Uchiyama, the group is dedicated to preserving the traditional form of hula and sharing its beauty with the community.
For the dancers, hula is more than just a dance. It is a way of life and a connection to their Hawaiian roots. Many of them have Hawaiian ancestry and have grown up with hula as a part of their family traditions. For others, hula has become a way to connect with their cultural heritage and find a sense of belonging in a new place.
One of the dancers, 25-year-old Sarah, shares her experience of finding hula in Maryland. She says, “I moved to Maryland from Hawaii a few years ago and I was feeling disconnected from my culture. When I found this hula group, it was like finding a piece of home. Being able to dance and share our culture with others here in Maryland has been a truly special experience.”
The group not only practices hula but also performs at various events and festivals in the community. Their performances are not only a visual treat but also a way to educate others about the rich history and meaning behind each dance. Through their performances, they hope to break stereotypes and showcase the true essence of hula.
Kumu Hula Mahealani Uchiyama, who has been teaching hula for over 40 years, believes that hula has the power to bring people together and bridge cultural gaps. She says, “Hula is a universal language, it speaks to everyone regardless of their background. Through hula, we can share our stories and connect with others in a meaningful way.”
The group’s dedication and passion for hula have not gone unnoticed. They have received recognition and support from the local community, with many expressing their appreciation for the group’s efforts to preserve and share hula in Maryland. One community member, who attended a performance, shares, “I had never seen hula before and I was blown away by the grace and beauty of the dancers. It was a truly unique and enriching experience.”
Despite the challenges of practicing hula so far from its birthplace, the group remains committed to their craft. They continue to learn and perfect their dances, often incorporating new elements while staying true to the traditional form. For them, hula is not just a hobby, but a way of life that brings joy and fulfillment.
In a world where cultural traditions are often at risk of being lost, it is heartening to see a group of dedicated individuals preserving and sharing the beauty of hula in an unexpected place. Their passion and dedication serve as an inspiration to others, reminding us of the power of dance and storytelling to connect us all.
In conclusion, the Maryland hula group is a shining example of how a traditional dance form can transcend geographical boundaries and bring people together. Their commitment to preserving hula and sharing it with their community is truly commendable. As they continue to dance and tell stories through hula, they are also keeping the spirit of Hawaii alive in Maryland.
