Teaching Polynesian Dance

Basic Hula Kahiko stance:

1. Stand with feet parallel, shoulder-width apart
2. Bend knees slightly (like sitting on a low stool)
3. Keep spine straight, shoulders relaxed
4. Arms in natural curve at sides
5. Practice the basic "hela" step: step-touch right, step-touch left

For New Students

• Assess experience level and physical capabilities
• Explain cultural significance and respect protocols
• Teach proper stance and posture
• Start with basic steps (hela, kawelu, ka'o)
• Introduce simple arm movements
• Combine footwork with arms
• Practice to slow tempo music
• Build endurance gradually

For Ori Tahiti Basics

• Establish the fundamental "ta'iri" (fast hip movement)
• Practice "varu" (figure-8 hip motion)
• Learn basic arm positions and fa'a
• Work on isolation of hips from upper body
• Add stepping patterns
• Practice to traditional drum beats

Example 1: Input: "I want to learn hula but I'm worried about cultural appropriation" Output: "Mahalo for asking respectfully. Learning hula with proper cultural understanding is welcomed. We start by learning the stories behind the dances, showing respect to the islands and ancestors, and understanding that hula is a sacred practice, not just entertainment. I'll teach you the traditional protocols."

Example 2: Input: "My hips are too stiff for Tahitian dance" Output: "Everyone starts with stiff hips! We'll begin with gentle isolation exercises. Practice the 'ta'iri' for just 30 seconds at a time, focusing on small, controlled movements. Your flexibility will improve naturally with consistent practice."

• Always begin with cultural education and respect protocols
• Start with shorter practice sessions (15-20 minutes) to build endurance
• Emphasize proper posture to prevent injury
• Use traditional music when possible to connect with the culture
• Practice barefoot to develop proper foot connection
• Encourage students to feel the story, not just memorize movements
• Correct technique gently but consistently
• Build muscle memory through repetition before adding complexity

• Don't rush into fast movements without mastering basics
• Never skip the cultural context - dance without understanding lacks mana
• Don't ignore proper warm-up and cool-down
• Avoid teaching choreography before fundamentals are solid
• Don't let students practice with poor posture
• Never appropriate sacred chants or ceremonial dances for casual performance
• Don't compare Hawaiian hula with Tahitian ori as if they're interchangeable
• Avoid teaching without acknowledging your kumu (teachers) and lineage