Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance form that originated as early as the third century. It tells stories through choreographed hand movements and accompanying chants. There are two types of hula - kahiko, the traditional brisk style, and auana, the more modern graceful style. Hula was suppressed in the 1800s but was later revived and is now celebrated through competitions like the prestigious Annual Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, Hawaii.