'ULALENA AT MAUI THEATRE

Aloha (greetings) and Hele mai (come)! 

There is a rain and wind that rises at twilight in Maui.  It whispers of other places and other times, both mythical and real. It blows between daylight and night, between times and worlds. It is hopeful and cleansing. The ancient Hawaiian name for this wind and rain is ‘Ulalena.

The ‘Ulalena story is an interpretative modern dance in a theatrical presentation with a somewhat Cirque de Soleil flare.  It depicts the creation, transformation and rebirth of the Hawaiian Islands through song, dance and music.  A circle of life which ends with the cleansing ‘Ulalena rain which represents cultural revival and renewal of the Hawaiian spirit.   

The story transports you through the first Polynesian explorers, the arrival of Europeans and the struggles of the plantation era.  Incorporating music, dance and the use of over 100 instruments played live by only 3 musicians, the production was colorful and entertaining.   You will want to be sure and read the story line printed in the program before its starts as the entire production is presented in Hawaiian chant. 

You will come face to face with unique characters such as Mo’o (Lizard Goddess),  Maui (Trickster God),  Pele (Volcano Goddess), Hina (Moon Goddess),  Kamapua’a (Pig God) and Kalo (staple food of the Hawaiian people).   

The scenes will include In The Beginning, The Ocean, The Mythical Forest, The Village, The Makahiki, The European Explorer, Shadows, The Hawaiian Monarchy, The Regenerating Forces of Nature, and ends with the REBIRTH!   A true circle of life depiction. 

Check out ‘Ulalena at Maui Theatre for more information.