The outstanding winning performances of The 29th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival were captured by the producers of KITV for your enjoyment on this one hour highlight tape. From across the islands and the Mainland, Hawaiians and Hawaiians at heart gather each year at the Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium in Hilo for the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival and Competition. During the first evenings' festivities dancers perform stirring kahiko or ancient hula, an art that keeps alive the traditions of their Hawaiian ancestors. The following evening they give renditions of colorful 'auana or modern hula, a contemporary style of Hawaiian dance full of delightfully creative touches. The outstanding winning performances of The 30th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival were captured by the producers of KITV for your enjoyment on this one hour highlight tape.
Many dancers say that it is their dream to perform here along with judges and teachers.
KITV is again honored to be part of the Merrie Monarch Festival. Our award winning television crew has captured the joy and grace of hula's showcase event, and we invite you to share in the spirit that is giving new life to the Hawaiian people. It is a spirit that was nurtured by the Merrie Monarch himself, King Kalakaua, as he revived the art of hula and ensured the perpetuation of traditional culture. For centuries, Hula has proven to be a continuation of the Hawaiian Cultural Heritage. Beauty and excellence is exhibited by all the participating Halau.