Hawaiian Hula vs ’Ori Tahiti – Understanding the Difference

Many people hear Hula or 'Ori Tahiti and think they are the same, but each has its own soul, its own movement vocabulary, and its own story.

At London School of Hula & ’Ori (LSHO), we guide you through both traditions so you can choose your path, or dance both. Through our in-studio and online classes, we teach authentic, respectful Hula & ’Ori Tahiti — rooted in culture, movement, and story. This page helps you understand the difference, and invites you to experience both with us.

A Tahitian dancer in a red skirt and black top standing on a large rock in front of a waterfall, with her arms outstretched and one arm pointed upward, in a lush green natural setting.

Origins and Cultural Roots

Polynesian dance is not just movement — it is a living form of storytelling.

  • In Hawaiʻi, Hula emerged as a cultural expression of chants (mele), legends, and everyday life.

  • In Tahiti, ’Ori Tahiti developed as a form of dance deeply tied to rhythm, social gatherings, and the rhythmic pulse of drums.
    At LSHO, we honour this cultural richness. Our instructors guide you through both the historical context and the embodied practice, so you dance with understanding as well as technique.

What is 'Ori Tahiti?

Under the umbrella of ’Ori Tahiti, there are several distinct dance forms, each with its own beauty and character:

‘Ōte’a

Three women performing a Tahitian dance in red floral costumes with feather headdresses, live on stage.

This is the most recognised form — dynamic, fast-paced, and drum-driven. Dancers rotate their hips with precision, expressing strength, joy, and tradition.

'Aparima

A group of five women performing a traditional tahitian dance on stage, wearing floral accessories and long skirts with a tropical background on a screen.

This style is more lyrical and storytelling-based. The movements of the hands and arms convey meaning, emotion, and narrative, often paired with sung or chanted lyrics.

At LSHO, we offer classes in both ʻŌteʻa and ’Aparima. Whether you're drawn to high energy or expressive storytelling, you can explore what moves you.

Hula also comes in multiple styles, each with its own flavour and cultural weight:

What is Hula

‘Hula ʻAuana

Ten women in blue dresses Hula dancing on stage with a blue background, wearing leis and blue hair accessories, performing a synchronized dance.

A modern, melodic form of Hula that often uses ukulele or guitar-based music. The dance is flowing, gentle, and deeply expressive, focusing on graceful footwork and storytelling through gesture.

Hula Kahiko

Three women wearing traditional hula skirts and leis performing a dance on stage with musicians in the background, decorated with greenery and flowers.

The “ancient” Hula, traditionally performed with chants, drums, and powerful movements. This style connects you to the roots of Hula and the mana (spiritual energy) of its origin.

At LSHO, students learn both ʻAuana and Kahiko, building technique, strength, and a deep appreciation for the dance’s rich heritage.

Side-by-Side Comparison – Hula vs ’Ori Tahiti

Hula

Chants, ukulele, guitar

Slower, flowing, melodic

Smooth footwork, hand gestures

Emotional storytelling, spiritual

Ceremony, storytelling, tradition

'Ori Tahiti

Tahitian drums (toere, pahu)

Fast (‘Ōteʻa), moderate/storytelling (‘Aparima)

Powerful hip rotations, expressive arms

Rhythmic, social, energetic

Celebration, community, social dance

Musical Accompaniment

Pace & Energy

Movement Style

Expression

Cultural Role

Feature

How LSHO Teaches These Styles

Here’s what makes our teaching special:

Inclusive Community
At LSHO, we welcome all bodies, all backgrounds, all abilities. Our 'ohana (dance family) is centred on respect, care, and shared growth.

  1. Cultural Understanding
    We don’t just teach steps — we explore the language, history, storytelling, and music behind both Hula and 'Ori.

  2. Flexible Formats

  3. Growth Pathway
    After learning the basics, you can     progress to more technical or expressive levels. Our Intermediate+ classes are available for those who want to deepen their practice, perform, or specialise.

Common Questions (FAQ)

  • What should I wear?
    Comfortable, non-restrictive clothing is best. For 'Ori, a pareo or sarong helps; for Hula, a paʻu skirt is traditional.

  • Do I need dance experience?
    Not at all! Our     Beginners’ Foundation Course is designed for complete beginners — no prior experience needed.

  • Is this good exercise?
    Yes! Hula and 'Ori both improve coordination, strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health — but they also nurture your spirit, creativity, and community.

  • Can I try both styles?
    Absolutely. Many students start in one style and explore the other. Our course and class structure supports cross-style learning. Check out our     schedule to see our classes!

  • Where are classes held?
    Our London studio is on     Pepper Street, SE1 0EL. We also run online via Zoom for remote learners.

Join the LSHO ‘Ohana

Ready to dance? We’d love to have you.

At LSHO, you’re not just learning to dance — you’re joining a community, preserving culture, and discovering a new way to move, tell stories, and belong. Welcome to our 'ohana.