What does the Ho’opa’a do in an authentic Hawaiian hula show?
In an authentic Hawaiian hula dance, the chanter (who is in charge of the singing) is the Ho’opa’a. They are also instrumental in their singing or chanting the mele (song or chant) that tells the story, sentiment or meaning of the hula. The voice of the Ho’opa’a guide the dancer and connects chant, movement and the spiritual depth of the act. Their voices enlist alongside the dancer’s movement, adding an emotional punch to hula’s culture and narrative.