Halau Hula O Missouri: Hawaiian Hula and Lei-making in Missouri

Abstract

Despite their relatively small population, Hawaiians in Missouri have a high visibility because of their interest in teaching and performing their distinctive folk arts. This essay focuses on hula dance and lei-making, beginning with a look back at the history of those forms. There are several different types of hula, and the dance has changed significantly over the years. Lei-making is a traditional Hawaiian art which fell out of favor in the early 20th century, but has seen a resurgence as a popular tourist attraction. Lei maker John Kevin Kaleiowaiapua Kumia of Boonville and his apprentices Leilani Heywood and Penny Pihana Shaw are profiled.