Developed in the Hawaiian Islands by Polynesians, the Hula is a traditional dance of Hawaii accompanied by a chant (oli) or song (mele). The Hula has also been called a prayer, because the dance moves are meant to interpret the words of the oli or mele.

Tahitian dance has many different styles, often depending on the movement and the performers. Until the early 20th century, traditional dance was illegal in Tahiti. Momentum for its revival was gained in the 1950s, and today, it is a celebrated piece of Tahitian culture again.

There is little difference between Hula and Tahitian dancing, aside from the pace at which the dances are set. Both dances are meant to tell a story. Tahitian dances portray day-to-day life occupations. Hula dances share a story of the history of how the civilization came to be.

Both dances largely emphasize the hips, while some Tahitian dances require a much faster pace, sometimes referred to as “hip shaking.” Although Hula dances may go just as fast, they are considered more graceful and include the hands more in the storytelling aspect of the dance.

The Oak Park Arms is a rental retirement community which provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.

The workshop is free and open to the public. For more information, call Jill Wagner at 708-386-4040.