Merrie Monarch Hula - 2002 - VHS

Album Notes

2002 marked the 39th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival, when hula's elite from across Hawai`i and around the world compete in what has become known as "the Olympics of hula". It takes place in Hilo on the big island of Hawai`i, where it began as a modest community celebration. Today, the Festival has grown to be Hawaii's most important and prestigious cultural event, with tickets sold out months in advance.

The live nightly television broadcasts of hula kahiko and hula `auana are the only way for hundreds of thousands of viewers to enjoy the spectacle. They are treated to outstanding performances of this ancient art form -- merging exquisite beauty with raw power, fusing delicate grace with soul-stirring passion.

(This video provides highlights of the Festival, not the entire Festival itself).

{Play time 90 minutes