Teacher's Column
Hello!from Yuki
Hello, Nice to meet you. My name is Yuki. I started working at Bridge in April. I like traveling abroad. What countries have you traveled to? Where have you lived?
I lived and traveled in many foreign countries. Among them, I lived in Hawaii for 6 months.
About 15 years ago, I began taking Hula lessons with my friends. The harder I practiced Hula, the deeper my interest in it became.
Let me explain a little about Hula. Hula is a dance accompanied by a chant or song and consists of two styles –Kahiko (ancient hula) and Auana (modern hula). In comparison to Kahiko’s more brisk and fast-pased movement, Auana is slower and more graceful. Movements are used to tell a story.
So, I was inspired by it. After practicing for three years in Japan, I decided to go to Hawaii to learn more about the home of Hula and see how far I could get. Although 6 months was a short time, I could see not only the genuine Hula, but also know Hula’s culture. The most wonderful thing was that the Hula class I belonged to had a chance to perform in front of locals at a festival. One thing I regretted was I hadn’t studied English enough before going to Hawaii.
In 2008, I visited Hawaii for the first time in 10 years and stayed there for a month. This time was more enjoyable. I think it was because my communication skill in English got better and I had more knowledge of hula than before.
This year, I had an opportunity to take my parents to Hawaii. It was the first time for them. They really enjoyed the island, except for the food. Since then, my parents repeatedly say to me, “When shall we go there again?” Now we all love Hawaii.
Where are you planning to go this summer vacation?
Yuki