2007 George Na`ope Kāne Hula Festival
The Third Annual
George Na`ope Kāne Hula Festival
Presented by the Makanaaloha Group
It is our privilege to present to the City of Modesto, Uncle George Lanakilakeikiahiali`i Na`ope and the George Na`ope Kāne Hula Festival, and the George Na`ope Keiki Hula Competition. The Kāne Hula Festival is the first hula competition dedicated solely to showcasing the unique power and grace of the men (kāne) in hula, and the Keiki Hula Competition is the first hula competition on the Mainland that features the children (girls 6-13 & boys 6-12) only in a hula competition.
v We are honored to present to our City of Modesto, Kumu Hula George Na`ope, “Living Treasure” of Hawai`i. "Uncle" George is a world renowned Kumu Hula (teacher of hula) and master chanter. Respect for his vast knowledge and expertise in Hawaiian chanting and Hula extends far beyond Hawai`i into Europe and Asia where hula students and dancers number in the thousands.
v Our Kāne Hula Festival judges are also among the elite in the international hula scene.
1. Chinky Māhoe is an award winning Kumu Hula, master chanter and known around the world for his teaching, knowledge, and choreography.
2. Etua Lopes has studied under the tutelage of George Na`ope for over 25 years and carries on traditions of his teachings.
3. Keala Ching, a world renowned & respected Kumu Hula, has taught many students all over the world.
4. Iokepa De Santos will be our Hawaiian language judge (`olelo Hawai`i).
v The Kāne Hula Festival has been put together to bring focus back on the men of hula. The men are an integral part in the history of hula and bring power and pride to the stage when they perform. The Polynesian community and the City of Modesto have always embraced cultural events and diversity. This event, just as the International Festival, promises to bring positive recognition to our city as well as revenue for many of its businesses. With its success and growth, this festival will gain recognition in Hawai`i as a highly credible event and draw many Hawaiian groups here to participate. Their presence will potentially draw audiences (and press coverage) from other states and countries to experience this unique event.
v Our goal with this event is to present festivals which showcase and perpetuate Hawaiian culture and history. They will be both educational and entertaining. The hula is what we call the “Heartbeat of the Hawaiian People” and a way of life. Through this festival, we wish to share the “aloha spirit” that is in the hearts of all native Hawaiians and “Hawaiians at heart”. There will also be an offering of workshops for Hawaiian language, hula and Hawaiian crafts throughout the year for continued learning through these events.
