The Haumana hula handbook: a manual for the student of Hawaiian dance

Hula, the indigenous dance of Hawai'i, preserves significant aspects of Native Hawaiian culture.

Kumu hula, persons who are "culturally recognized hula experts and educators", maintain and share this cultural tradition. Originally performed to convey history and spiritual beliefs, Hula is now commonly practiced as a form of cultural and creative expression, and is comprised of specific rhythmic movements that enhance or allude to the meaning or poetry of the accompanying songs or chants.

Emphasizing the importance of cultural literacy, the Haumana Hula Handbook begins with an overview of the origins of Hula, its history in Hawai'i, and the primacy of the spiritual focus of the dance.

The book goes on to introduce halau etiquette and practices, and explains the format of a traditional Hula presentation, together with the genres of Hula and the regalia worn by the dancers.

Practical components include sections on Hawaiian language and chant and a glossary of Hula commands and footwork.