| HAWAIIAN PUPPET STORYTELLING Featuring puppets created by Laszlo Gyore. |
Watch the Video Produced By THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII INSTITUTE FOR ASTRONOMY |
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Auntie Leilehua Omphroy directs this unique performance. Using handmade contemporary and Hawaiian style puppets, the stories of "Ku'ula" (god of fishing) and "Kahuli Aku" (about native tree snails and the interdependence of life in our native forests) are presented for youngsters as well as those young at heart to enjoy. After the performance, hear more about the tradition of Hawaiian stories and puppets.
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One of the HAWAIIAN O PUNA's ongoing efforts is the creation and presentation of Ha'i Mo'olelo Me Na Ki'i, a traditional Hawaiian puppet show. The Group's initial effort, written and narrated by Auntie Leilehua, tells the traditional tale of "Ku'ula, the God of fishing" as mentioned above. Using a combination of song, humor and talking story, the puppet show carries with it a strong message about Hawaii's long heritage of using the sea and the stars for the good of all. The story talks about the stars and the moon and the relationships to fishing with "Ku'ula, the God of fishing" and how he teaches his son 'Ai' ai to watch the night sky. The puppets themselves are original works of art made from native materials. For preschool and primary students HAWAIIAN O PUNA presents the plays ''Opae E" and "Kahuli Aku." Both of these shows involve student participation as puppeteers. "Opae E" is a legend and song about a boy calling on creatures of the ocean to save his sister from the puhi (eel) who has kidnapped her. Most of the creatures refuse, fearing for their lives, but the tiny ophih (limpet) bravely attach themselves to the puhi's eyes, allowing the girl to escape. This simple play illustrates how every creature has a role to play; even a little opihi can save the day. "Kahuli Aku" is the legend of the snails who moved to the trees to escape the invading modern life forms, and who then depended on the kõlea bird to bring them food. The snails repaid the birds with their song. This story illustrates the interdependence of life in the native forest. This performance has already delighted thousands in schools and community organizations across the islands.
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| HAWAIIANA O PUNA consists of a dedicated and diverse group of individuals who share a love of Hawaiian folklore, history and culture. Their current plans include a full cycle of stories that will range across Hawaii's vast wealth of history and traditions. Their aim is not just to educate and entertain but also to nurture and sustain interest in a uniquley Hawaiian art form. | |||
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HAWAIIANA O PUNA Kupana Advisor: Kupuna Winona Beamer
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For more information or scheduling a performance for your School or Community Organization, contact the Hawai'iana o Puna secretary James Kirkendall at 966-7542 or email requests to hulakii@mail.com |
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Contact: Laszlo Gyore • Site Content & Photography ©2007 Laszlo Gyore. Site Design • Foster Johnson Studios • USA |
