Waimea School Invites Public to Friday’s May Day Fete

Continuing a decades-long Waimea tradition of celebrating May Day with the presentation of a Royal Court and student performances, Waimea Middle School is again inviting the community to its annual May Day celebration on Fri., May 11, 2012 in historic Thelma Parker Gym.

 

The formal program begins with the sounding of the pu at 9:30 a.m., followed by presentation of a Royal Court made up of 8^th grade students who have participated in a lengthy journey of learning, both to qualify for a student election through research and community service, and then to secure their place on the court through continuing academic progress, good behavior and a commitment to learn the required chants, dances and cultural protocols.

 

This year’s theme is “Pana Hawai’i,” honoring the storied, legendary and sacred places of Waimea.  Students will share chants, dances and beloved mo’olelo (stories) about their Waimea home, as shared by cultural practitioners and also that they have studied about in science, social studies and language arts classes.

 

As is always the case for May Day presentations in Thelma Parker gym, seating is limited and first come though there is always standing room for late arrivals.  Kupuna and guest cultural practitioners who have shared their stories, values and practices with students, as well as families of the May Day Court and parents with infants will be provided preferential seating beginning at 8:45 a.m.  Doors will then open to all others at 9 a.m. as live music begins.

 

Students from all grade levels will perform an array of numbers reflecting the cultural diversity of Waimea.  Students also will share contemporary presentations including hip hop dances and “spoken word” – aka original slam poetry that tells about their Mala’ai school garden learning experiences.

 

There is no charge to enjoy the performance and everyone attending is encouraged to wear a lei.

 

In preparation for May Day, donations of greenery are welcome to decorate the gym.  Cut greenery, including tropical flowers (ginger, orchids, anthuriums, Bird of Paradise), tall ti leaf stalks, monstera leaves, potted palms, palapalai and other ferns are needed.  Donations may be brought to the gym between 3-6 p.m., Wed., May 9, or at 9 a.m., Thurs., May 10.  Kokua with decorating also is welcome from 9-3 on Thurs., May 10.  For information or to arrange pickup or delivery of greenery, call WMS ‘Ike Hawai’i Resource Teacher Pua Case (938-5550).

Story submitted by Patti Cook.

Tags: Day Court, Middle School, Pana Hawai, Patti Cook, Royal Court, Thelma Parker, Thelma Parker Gym, Waimea Middle, Waimea Middle School, Waimea School, WMS