What is luahine?

Luahine, also known as Mary Ann Kahaialii, was a famous Hawaiian dancer, hula master and composer. She was born on February 4, 1912 in Honomanu, Maui and was raised by her grandparents in the traditional Hawaiian way.

Luahine started dancing hula at a young age and quickly became known for her exceptional skill and dedication to the art form. In 1925, she joined the legendary hula troupe of Mary Kawena Pukui and continued to perform with them for many years.

In addition to her dancing career, Luahine was also a skilled composer and choreographer. She composed many hula pieces, including one of her most famous, "Alika," which is still performed today.

Luahine was a pivotal figure in the revival of traditional Hawaiian hula during the early 20th century. She worked tirelessly to educate people about the beauty and nuances of the art form, and she is celebrated to this day as a hula master and cultural icon. She passed away on December 24, 1978.