Merrie Monarch - The First 30 Years

Album Notes

For over thirty years now, they have come. People from all islands and continents travel to the sleepy town of Hilo, on the big island of Hawai`i, for a truly special event. They come to dance, they come to celebrate, they come to honor.

They honor Hawaiian King David Kalakaua, known as "The Merrie Monarch" for his love of song and dance, and in his memory they hold this annual celebration, The Merrie Monarch Hula Competition and Festival. Hundreds of highly talented hula dancers and their halau (schools) perform, compete and perpetuate this indigenous expression of dance and storytelling.

Through interviews and classic performances, this 2-hour video vividly describes how the event has evolved from a simple festival into what is is known as today...the premiere showcase of Hawaiian dance and culture.

Play time 2 hours

Merrie Monarch is:

Merrie Monarch