Lia Sutton - Class of 2021
February 9th, 2022
Lia Sutton reflects on her hula journey
Lia Sutton ’21 has danced hula with Hālau Mōhala `Ilima since elementary school. Some of her fondest moments from dancing as a child include dancing in the Keiki Hula Competition and traveling to Kauai. “Not only did we dance hula on Kauai, but we also learned about the island’s ancient history, myths, and legends through the songs we danced and sang. Every song has a mo`olelo, or story, to learn,” said Lia. “Still to this day, learning about Hawaiian culture from both the songs we perform as well as my kumu Māpuana de Silva is one of my favorite things about hula. Hālau Mōhala `Ilima specializes in traditionally learned chants and dances taught by the late Maiki Aiu Lake, so being able to spread that culture to others who are watching us dance is very special to me."
A favorite hula that Lia has learned is "`O Kailua i ke Oho o ka Malanai." “The message in this mele, or song, is of mālama i nā mea laha ‘ole, meaning to care for the things that are near. Things that are near can apply to people, physical items, and even traditions. I hope to always keep Hawaiian traditions near to me,” said Lia.
Self-discipline and teamwork are other skills Lia developed through hula. “I would consider hula a little like school. In the beginning, it’s hard to make friends, but as you grow older, it becomes easier and you establish countless lifelong friendships. When I first started, I noticed that a lot of my hula sisters were Hawaiian and went to Kamehameha, so I used to feel out of place since I was pretty much the only Asian. Also, being younger made it a bit awkward to talk to girls who were much older than me. As I got to know more about them, it became easier to dance together as we began to treat each other like family.
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Because my current class ranges from 6th graders all the way to college students, sometimes it still feels strange trying to get to know everyone. As one of the oldest dancers in my class, I always try to include my younger hula sisters. This can help to make dancing together more fun for them so that they can enjoy all that I have been able to enjoy throughout my hula journey.”
