Polynesian Culture In Hawaii: History Of Dancing And Island Influences

The roots of Polynesian dancing arguably date back more than 1,000 years, though the actual date isn't completely certain. What is clear is that sometime around the turn of the last millennium, seafarers from the South Pacific reached the previously uninhabited Hawaiian archipelago and implemented their cultural traditions right as they began cultivating food and growing the new population. For example, the early Hawaiian social structure is believed to have been based on one from Tahiti, from which many early settlers came.

Parts of this structure ended up remaining in place until around the time Hawaii became a state, having become entrenched during the five centuries after settlement when Hawaiian civilization was cut off from the non-Polynesian world. One well-known reference to this system, the phrase "Big Kahuna," has arguably become part of the larger American vernacular. This word is used to describe a class of high priests who were just below the nobility and just above the commoners in the historical Hawaiian social hierarchy.

The tradition of hula dancing is certainly entertaining, but it's much more than that. As you watch each performance, try to keep in mind the complex roots of the practice. Oftentimes, hula performances will include historical context from a community member, as well as a traditional feast that tells the story of ancient Polynesia. Traditionally, hula has deep mythological and even religious roots, and originally, it rarely took place in public — and almost never in front of non-Hawaiians. Carried down through generations, the tradition of hula has more to mastering it than mere physical skill and command of rhythm, although these have always been important.

It's a similar story for fire dancing, which is also known by its indigenous name siva afi. Having originated in Samoa centuries before it migrated to Hawaii, the tradition, which even to this day often involves throwing and performing various other acrobatic tricks with knives, originally began as a way for fierce warriors to display their prowess with weapons.

Unlike tiki — which was actually a romanticized American creation only loosely based on Polynesian imagery and heritage — both hula and siva afi are authentic conduits to Hawaii's history, even if both have changed and adapted along with the state's relationship with the rest of America and the world. Both combine during a luau, which has itself changed considerably since the time it entered Hawaiian consciousness in the early 19th century.

Today, attending a luau remains one of the best ways to discover Polynesian culture in Hawaii, and these parties are very accessible to travelers. You can taste expertly prepared versions of the foods (typically served buffet style) including kalua pork and lomi salmon, and you can also see professional hula and fire dancers at the top of their game. Depending on the scale of the celebration and how much time you have available afterward, you may be able to speak to performers or organizers and inquire about their own personal or family history with the traditions, or even receive recommendations on places to visit to learn more. When attending a luau, it's important to be respectful as well as prepared to step out of your comfort zone — whether that means trying an unfamiliar dish or getting up to dance the hula yourself.