A sexy and creative force in the hula world, Patrick Makuakäne might be best known for his charismatic stage presence and innovative choreography. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai’i, Makuakäne began dancing at the age of 13 and went on to study with some of Hawai’i’s most recognized hula masters, including John Keola Lake and Robert Cazimero. He shares his thoughts on his loves, heroes and Miss Piggy.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Gorging on snacks in bed with my baby while watching TV.
What is your greatest fear?
Having my other hip replaced.
What is your greatest extravagance?
A daily can of Amy & Brian’s coconut juice. Complete Nirvana.
What is your favorite journey?
The one I’m presently on.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
When missionaries first arrived in Hawai’i.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Procrastination.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Meanness.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
Mr. Chicken.
Which living person do you most admire?
Miss Piggy.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Good hair.
On what occasion do you lie?
“I like your hair.”
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
Enlarged nostril openings.
Which living person do you most despise?
The person who made a huge dent in my new car and left without leaving a note.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Depends on the man.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Depends on the woman.
What do you most value in your friends?
Returning my call on the same day for Christ’s sake!
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
Something that flies (except a fly).
Which talent would you most like to have?
A kick ass ‘ukulele player. I suck.
In what country would you like to live?
The country of San Francisco. We need our own flag.
Who are your favorite composers?
Lena Machado, Rollo Armstrong, Thomas Newman.
Who are your favorite writers?
Lucia Tarallo – Jensen, Lois-Ann Yamanaka, Dr. Seuss.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My dance company dancers who give up their Sundays for hula.
What is it you most dislike?
Refrigerated rice.
What is your most treasured possession?
My Kuahu (hula altar).
What is your greatest regret?
No regrets!
How would you like to die?
I’ll take whatever comes.
What is your current state of mind?
Caffeinated.
What is your motto?
Dance as if everyone is watching.
This article appeared in the July/August 2009 issue of In Dance.
