Moʻolelo or Kaʻao?
Being a Thoughtful Listener
Did you know there is another type of story in Hawaiian culture that’s different from moʻolelo? It’s called kaʻao.
So what is kaʻao and how is it different from moʻolelo? Kumu Taiwi Crouch is here to help us answer this question! He also shares his retelling of the legend of Kapoʻi and the Seven Eggs in the video below.
Kumu Taiwi Crouch is a MHC docent, a long-time educator in Hawaiian history, culture, and science (as well as Medieval and Asian history) and was a crew member aboard the Hōkūle‘a, navigating by traditional means to Tahiti, Samoa, and the Marquesas in the mid-1980’s. He further draws from his knowledge as a hula practitioner, member of hālau oli Na Wa‘a Lalani Kahuna o Puʻukoholā, and traditional carver.
🤙🏼 Totally Cool 😎. I love the special effects. I really love the idea of being a thoughtful listener. So important in all walks of life.
Kumu Tai “enraptored” – oops! enraptured me early this morning as I listened to Kapo’i and the Seven Eggs. Great ending!
Wonderful Ka’ao as told by Kumu Taiwi Crouch! I have never heard that story, and enjoyed it very much. I am sure the visiting students will love hearing this story.