Since 2000, HPS has had the privilege of sitting and talking with elders throughout the islands. These video oral histories and associated documentation are a treasure trove of learning, built on the voices of our beloved kūpuna. The kūpuna fall under two categories—Hula Masters and Hula Elders.
Click on names that have a star icon ★ to view an elderʻs virtual collection on Digital ‘Umeke. Check back often as we continue to add new collections.
Leilani Alama
Puanani Alama
Gordean Lee Bailey
Roselle Lindsey Bailey
Al Makahinu Barcarse
Kent Ghirard
Marge Lehualani Hunt
Jean Hopkins Kalani
Mae Kamamalu Klein
Edith Kapule McKinzie
Martha Medeiros
Beverly Apana Muraoka
Minerva Higa Pang
Earl Pamai Tenn
Alexa Keaunui Vaught
Leiana Long Woodside
Pattye Wright
Hula Masters
The hula masters here spent their lives teaching, sharing, and lovingly passing on the lessons, repertoire, and lifeways of their teachers before them. They were born primarily in the 1910s, 20s, and 30s and were raised in a vastly different Hawaiʻi than what we know today. Their stories, insights, recollections, and life experiences hold great value as the world around us continues to change and our beloved home continues to evolve.