I happened across your hula segment by chance this morning. I understand your intention is to educate your viewing audience. But as a native Hawaiian, I found your choice of whom you interviewed to be very offensive.

First of all, the process of becoming a “Kumu Hula” is highly formalized and steeped in tradition. It takes years to earn the title which is conferred by the instructor/teacher, who is a Kumu Hula themselves. All to often many simply confer the title upon themselves which falsely adds a level of legitimacy. And that legitimacy is for the sole purpose of maximizing their financial opportunities.

Some of the dead giveaways as to your interviewee not being a Kumu Hula were:
1. The inappropriate manner in which she demonstrated the Ipu.
2. The mispronunciation of Queen Liliuokalani.
3. The deplorable execution of all her hand movements.
4. The grossly incorrect response that a hula can be learned in two lessons.
5. No traditonally-based Kumu Hula would ever be caught dead with a name
like “Kalua”.

I started dancing hula when I was 6 years old. I am now 59 years of age. I’m not as spry as I used to be, but I can still get up there and do the dance justice.
Therefore, my comments are based on my first hand knowledge and experiences as a Hawaiian.

I wish your production company continued success.

Sincerely,
Walter Kaohu ‘O Kaleponi Mo’okini, Jr.

Let’s assume for a moment that topic is irrelevant as long as the host makes it interesting. Well, I’m sorry but this wasn’t interesting.

One thing though… ‘hula dancing’ is like saying ’shrimp scampi’… it’s redundant.

Nice job Sarah!

Pili

She is talented and throws herself into the interview 100%. Did you guys notice that she’s in view and involved the whole time? I think that’s important! Sarah has what it takes to keep people watching.

Best candidate by far is @WOOD!!!!!!!!!