Kumu hula Ed Collier and his Halau O Na Pua Kukui performed this past weekend at the world renowned Merrie Monarch Hula Festival in Hilo.
Competing against top halau from Hawaii and the mainland, on Friday evening in the kahiko section, they performed the rhythmic mele, He Mele No Ka Po'e Kane Kahiko, which pays homage to the men of ancient Hawaii.
On Saturday night, performing before a sellout crowd that included Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hanneman '72, the kane mesmerized the audience with a joyous rendition of Mahai'ula. The kane's precision and brilliance, were rewarded with a third place finish in the 'auana section.
Iolani students and alumni represented Halau O Na Pua Kukui at this year's festival. Three current seniors, Landon Patoc, Nolan Chung and Derek Tom, joined alumni Sean Nakayama '93, Nathan Oki '03, Travis Dang '97, Clint Onigama '97, Ross Yamamoto '03 and chanter Corey Chun '92.
