Merrie Monarch Festival

The Academy of Hawaiian Arts sparked controversy, accusations of bias, and speculation over competition production following its 2024 Merrie Monarch performance. The hālau, from Oakland, California, was the only group based in the Hawaiian diaspora to compete at this year's event. At the center of conversation was AHA's wahine kahiko offering, a thunderous and technically challenging display that became an immediate fan favorite across social media. The hālau was shutout from award across every category in which it competed, leading to massive outcry online. Many kumu hula came out in the days following competition to defend judges and festival organizers, claiming the intent of Merrie Monarch was to honor the hard-fought traditions of hula and continue its preservation and cultural legacy. Click the image to watch.

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