‘Na Lei Hula’

Founded in 1985 by director/kumu hula Patrick Makuakane and his company of 40 dancers, it’s known for its unique contemporary style called hula mua, or “hula that evolves.” The style blends traditional movements with non-Hawaiian music like opera, electronic, dance, alternative and pop. Both hula mua and authentic, traditional pieces are showcased in the company’s visually captivating stage presentation.
Featuring 20 world premieres, this year’s hula includes a collection of chants and dances inspired by more than 100 transcribed Hawaiian-language archival newspapers from 1834 to 1946.
See hula like you have never seen it before: Grass skirts and coconut bras are replaced by colorful dresses with tulle petticoats that show off the figures of the dancers just as well.
Numbers such as the “Hi’IAkaikapoliopele” (the story of Pele’s favorite sister) and “Kalapu Jazz” (hulas to “Embraceable You,” “I Got Rhythm” and “If I Could Be With You One Hour Tonight”) will give you the idea of just how contemporary and delightful this company is.
This unique troupe is made up of an extremely well coordinated group of beautifully costumed female dancers complimented by a group of fine male dancers and musicians.
If you have any love for hula and Hawaii, this would be a most extraordinary experience.
Where: Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Lyon St., San Francisco
Details: (415) 392-4400 or visit cityboxoffice.com.