Pacific Index

Pacific’s annual Lū‘au and Hō‘ike approaches with a theme inspired by generations

   Quickly approaching is Pacific’s favorite time of year– Lū‘au and Hō‘ike. This year will mark the 64^th annual Lū‘au and Hō‘ike, with the theme making tribute to the many generations who came before. “This year’s theme is, ‘our experiences defined by the voices of our generation,’” shares Moses Flores, the executive historian for Nā Haumāna O Hawai‘i (NHOH). “Essentially, it’s kind of taking into account what the people before us experienced and how that plays into the cultural aspect as well as how that plays into how we interpret the dances; from there on it’s like our experiences of our generation is what allows us to understand and learn the cultures that we’re participating in.” 

   The theme not only sets the tone for the entire event, but it also focuses the program, allowing the Lū‘au and Hō‘ike Board to choose dances that represent the theme. Lyndon Tanoa, one of the members of the Lū‘au and Hō‘ike Board expands, “Like for Siva, we incorporated a song that talks about our generation and how the people of our past, like our parents and grandparents affected us and how we live.” The board juggles a number of different things to make sure that the event goes smoothly, like working on the script, designing what order the show runs in, organizing preshow, and managing the numerous other committees. Creating a wholly student-run event of this size is hard, but it’s also insanely impressive.

   “There are so many people who are doing so many different things in order to make Lū‘au happen,” expresses Flores. “Not only is there costumes committee, there’s decoration, there’s floral, there’s literally just food, there’s after-party; there’s so many different things that come into play when creating Lū‘au  and it’s all from the students.” Advisor Janalei Chun shares Flores’ view, proudly explaining how she sees students grow from their roles behind the scenes. “Our main goal is to share the cultures, another goal is to grow your skills, and develop your skills, and of course have fun making memories,” Chun remarks. “For me, it’s very rewarding to see how much they grow throughout the years.”

   The Lū‘au and Hō‘ike Board has helped put together a very special show this year, adding elements that make this year’s event stand out. “Couples is different this year,” shares Tanoa. “Usually it’s a Hawaiian dance, but this year we decided to make it a Samoan dance and it actually looks pretty cool.” The board mentions that the Tongan dance is another one to be excited about. “Leti, the instructor for Tongan, he’s mixing the main cultural dance with something that’s new,” Tanoa mentions. The traditional Tongan dance will be combined with a popularized music from New Zealand, combining past and present generations. “I think each year with different groups coming…it’s just really exciting to see how they experience is from their point of view.” adds board member Mary Diego. 

   “I felt such a sense of community when it came to making Lū‘au happen last year, that it was like, ‘duh of course I want to come back,’” Flores says with a smile, explaining how his experience with Lū‘au last year inspired his commitment to help plan this year. Flores shares his hope that the audience will understand the importance of this event and that those participating will appreciate the community that’s built through it. “It’s getting the opportunity to not only dance your culture in front of people, but also getting the opportunity to teach people through your dance as well,” he says, explaining why he finds Lū‘au and Hō‘ike to be the treasure of Pacific. 

   “When it comes to NHOH members who are performing, as well as just working to make this happen,” Flores begins. “I think the most important thing for them to learn is just make sure that they’re having fun as well as connecting with new people.” Lū‘au and Hō‘ike is a massive event to organize, but it’s in very good hands and will doubtlessly be another amazing event that will inspire generations. 

Lū‘au and Hō‘ike will take place Saturday, April 12 in Stoller Center. Tickets are now for sale online.