In honor of its 50th anniversary, will welcome community members for an unforgettable free afternoon of performances featuring five decades of talent, including musical, dance, hula and theatre from distinguished alumni, current students and local performers on September 22, at 2 p.m.

The free event demonstrates Leeward Community College鈥檚 continued dedication to making arts and culture accessible to all, while celebrating the rich history of the theatre and its community.

The event will feature Leeward CC alumni talents such as Kristian Lei (singing), Starr Kalahiki (singing), Honybal Sosa (guitar), Phillip Kelley-Crawford (dance) and more, alongside community members who have contributed to the theatre鈥檚 legacy. This once-in-a-lifetime event will also include video interviews and monologues from notable alumni and staff.

Although tickets are free, .

Cornerstone of art, education, community

“Leeward Theatre has always been a gathering place for the community, and what better way to celebrate 50 years than by offering this milestone event for free,” said Elisa Olson, theatre manager. “We want to fill our theatre with the energy, appreciation and love from the community that has supported us for half a century.”

Leeward Theatre has been a cornerstone of performing arts, education, and community engagement in Leeward Oʻahu since its inception. The theatre has played a pivotal role in nurturing talent, entertaining audiences, and fostering a love for the arts within the local community.

It reopened in 2019 after a three-year, $12-million renovation, then had to shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Leeward Theatre welcomed the community back in 2022.

With a recent $540,000 invested in University of Hawaiʻi programs and students, to create partnerships with community groups and to promote sustainability, has raised its total philanthropic giving to 糖心视频 to more than $2.3 million. The latest investments align with the Honolulu-based Native Hawaiian Organization鈥檚 mission to aloha ʻāina (love the homeland) by supporting the teaching and preservation of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 lands and oceans.

The new gifts from the Alakaʻina Foundation create opportunities for and with on the Leeward Coast and for and in Windward Oʻahu.

“We feel it鈥檚 important not only that the young men and women of Hawaiʻi have the skills they need to be effective leaders, but that they have the competencies our communities need for a sustainable future,” said Alakaʻina Foundation Executive Director Kimo Bacon. “We hope that many lives will be improved through our partnership, and we will keep our Hawaiʻi moving forward.”

The three recently funded programs are:

• 糖心视频 West Oʻahu: Alakaʻina Foundation Sustainable Food Systems Scholarship
• Leeward CC: Waiʻanae Moku Summer Bridge
• Windward CC:

The Alakaʻina Foundation has supported other 糖心视频 programs, such as the 鈥� Online Associate in Arts Degree Program, the Ka Haka ʻUla O Keʻelikōlani College of Hawaiian Language, the Digital Bus Program and scholarships for Kauaʻi CC students transferring to the 糖心视频 Mānoa , as well as students enrolled in Kauaʻi CC鈥檚 Electronics Technology program.

“We are grateful for Alakaʻina Foundation鈥檚 innovative system-wide approach to giving,” said Tim Dolan, 糖心视频 vice president of advancement and CEO of . “This focus on sustainability, especially food security, will benefit generations of Hawaiʻi students.”

The Alakaʻina Foundation Family of Companies disburses profits from its seven government service firms to nonprofit activities that benefit the Native Hawaiian community, primarily the youth of Hawaiʻi.

(Editor’s note: Due to unforeseen circumstances, performance dates for E ʻaha ʻia ana ʻo Mauna Kea have been rescheduled to November 4, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. Already purchased tickets will be automatically moved and ticket holders will receive updated tickets via email next week. If ticket holders are unable to make the new date, contact the Leeward Theatre at (808) 455-0380 or ltheatre@hawaii.edu by September 15, 2023, for a refund or ticket exchange.)

The Leeward Community College Theatre will premiere its performance of E aha ʻia ana ʻo Mauna Kea, on September 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. This performance weaves together Hawaiian moʻōlelo (stories), contemporary dance and music in a captivating portrayal of the snow goddess Poliʻahu.

The performance is presented by the Kanaka Maoli Juilliard-trained composer, pianist, māhū drag artist and cultural practitioner T.J. Keanu Tario, also known as Laritza Labouche.

E aha ʻia ana ʻo Mauna Kea is a celebration of Hawaiian heritage and resilience. With echoes of the Protect Mauna Kea and Aloha ʻĀina movements, E aha ʻia ana ʻo Mauna Kea honors the land and its stories. The performance shines a light on m膩h奴 perspectives, adding a powerful layer of identity and cultural exploration.

The show is a transformative journey that melds tradition and modernity. By fusing moʻōlelo with contemporary expressions, Tario creates an immersive experience that encapsulates the heart of Hawaiian culture and the ongoing pursuit of cultural preservation.

For tickets, go to or call the Leeward Theatre box office at (808) 455-0385, open 10 a.m.鈥�2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Follow E aha ʻia ana ʻo Mauna Kea on social media:

• Facebook:
• Instagram:
• Hashtag: #LeewardTheatre50 #KanakaMaoli #MaunaKea

A new student-designed mural depicting shark goddess Kaʻahupāhau, and her brother, Kahiʻukā greets students and visitors to 鈥檚 Learning Commons and Library. The installment, “Nā Kiaʻi o Puʻuloa (The Protectors of Puʻuloa),” was art student Taylor Wilson鈥檚 way of highlighting the guardians of the region.

Leeward CC鈥檚 Learning Commons and Library faculty and staff had requested a window covering that could reduce glare and filter light coming through the large mauka facing windows of the building.

“We determined right away that we wanted to use this as an opportunity to display some of our Hawaiian moʻolelo (stories)—our Hawaiian traditions,” said Annemarie Paikai, Leeward CC驶蝉 Hawaiʻi-Pacific resource librarian. She, along with library faculty and staff, and art faculty, Erika Molyneux, sought the counsel of Momi Kamahele, Leeward CC鈥檚 Native Hawaiian Center coordinator, for ways to uplift the stories of the region.

This resulted in a spring 2022 semester project that involved several art classes. Students had to design a multi-panel mural that would eventually be printed on perforated vinyl and installed on the windows. Paikai shared the history and moʻolelo of Puʻuloa with the students, who then conducted their own research, and presented their artwork to a selection committee before a final piece was chosen.

“I was amazed by the variety of responses we got,” recalled Molyneux. “I was really impressed with their use of ʻ艑lelo Noʻeau, both in the designs and in their titles, and how thoughtful their designs and reflections were.”

Ultimately, art student Wilson鈥檚 design was chosen for the mural.

“As ʻaumakua of Puʻuloa, Kaʻahupāhau and Kahiʻukā defended the area from man-eating sharks and provided for the people that lived here,” said Wilson. Showing a harmonious relationship was important to her, knowing that this piece would greet people as they enter the main campus. “I chose to focus on portraying the sharks more simply in harmony with the ocean, the fish, and the area,” said Wilson.

Wilson鈥檚 colorful depiction of the story of Kaʻahupāhau was created with careful considerations regarding style and color palette, “I started to think about mosaic pieces and how there鈥檚 a stained glass effect inside of cathedrals and how it brings a sense of peace and lets light in,” she said. “That鈥檚 why I chose brighter colors…as well as that big sun (in between the sharks) showing that there鈥檚 a light that they bring.”

The mural was installed in late November of 2022. “I absolutely love it,” said Chancellor Carlos Pe帽aloza. “It鈥檚 a shining example of a cross-campus collaboration that honors our efforts to indigenize Leeward.”

Wilson, who is still trying to take everything in, said, “It驶蝉 very surreal. It still hasn’t fully hit me. Every time I come to campus or I see the photos I just stand there in awe.”

On January 4, 2023, Leeward CC held a small dedication ceremony for the mural. Faculty and staff gathered for a short program that included a traditional Hawaiian dedication and appearances by key individuals who were involved in the project.

Also in attendance were two special guests: Lonnie Briggs, whose donations support Leeward鈥檚 Enrichment Fund and the Kimo Farrish Memorial Scholarship, and Mike Lee, who honors the memory of his late wife, Karen Fujishima-Lee (a former math instructor at Leeward CC) through a memorial scholarship in her name and the Fujishima-Lee Emergency Student Support Fund. Lee has also supported Leeward鈥檚 Food Service Enhancement Fund.

Learn more about .

The performing arts hopes and dreams of students and the surrounding communities got a major boost in 2019, after the three-year renovation of the Pearl City campus鈥� . Nearly $12 million in improvements included increased stage crew access, replacing the theater seats and modernizing the stage and lighting.

A jubilant Leeward CC staged Lin Manuel Miranda鈥檚 In the Heights in January 2019, and bookings began to pick up speed. It all came to a screeching halt when COVID-19 closed the campus in March 2020.

Today, after a combined five years of dormancy, the only major arts presenter and arts education center serving the Leeward and Central Oʻahu communities is welcoming audiences back through the storied lobby featuring a 100-foot-long mural by Jean Charlot to comfy new seats and the glow of the LED-lit stage.

Makalapua launches new season

Makalapua debuted in September and a full slate of renters have booked the new facility through the end of the 2022–23 season.

The current crop of students couldn鈥檛 be more excited.

“I think it鈥檚 gorgeous,” said Betty Hill, who volunteered as a stagehand for Makalapua. “It鈥檚 my first experience in a theater ever. It鈥檚 never been available to me before so I love it.”

Mokihana Garcia grew up in Waiʻanae and is hoping to perform in the new theater.

“A real stage like this is unknown, at least in my experience, so revolutionary,” he said.

Lalea Nilsen had the opportunity to perform ballet in Leeward CC鈥檚 Pau Hana, when the theater opened briefly in 2019.

“It鈥檚 beautiful,” Nilsen said. “I love the backdrop and how many people can fit in the audience.”

The shows go on

New Leeward Theatre Manager Elisa Olson has been in theaters all over the country—in 49 states to be exact. She has worked as a production stage manager for national tours and also served at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.

“We have something very special here, which I am very excited about, and the ability to utilize that is fantastic,” Olson said. “As far as what we have to offer and our capability, we can do just about anything.”

Her work now is both external and internal. Musical theatre, popularized by shows such as Glee, could be among Leeward鈥檚 future offerings.

“Honestly what I鈥檓 the most excited about is the ability to really engage with the community and build a program that鈥檚 here that represents Leeward,” Olson said. “We are planning on coming back for our 50th anniversary, which is next year, and offering a full slate of what we expect from Leeward Theatre and some new things along the way.”

Ahead at Leeward Theatre:

• Hawaiʻi Ballet Theatre – Nutcracker (November 25–27, 2022)
• 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Bands (December 4, 2022)
• Hawaiʻi Symphony (December 13, 2022)
• Pas De Deux Hawaii (December 9–10, 2022)
• Hawaiʻi Symphony (February TBD, 2022)
• X1 Entertainment – Piper Rockelle鈥擲ocial media influencer (February 19, 2023)
• Starpower Talent Competition (March 4–5, 2023)
• Treasure Box – Goldmine Dance Comp (March 24, 2023)
• 糖心视频 Outreach College – Atamira Dance Company (April 14–15, 2023)
• EnerGy National Dance Competition (April 22–23, 2023)
• 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Bands (April 30, 2023)
• ʻIolani Schools (May 6, 2023)
• Ballet Hawaii (May 12–14, 2023)
• Island Pacific Academy (May 27, 2023)
• Spotlight Dance Cup (June 2–3, 2023)
• Rosalie Woodson Dance Academy (June 9–10, 2023)
• Pas De Deux Hawaii (June 16–18, 2023)
• Waipahu Community School for Adults (June 24, 2023)

—By Kelli Abe Trifonovitch

presents 鈥檚 Makalapua, the latest in an ongoing series of performances that feature Queen 尝颈濒颈ʻ耻辞办补濒补苍颈鈥檚 mele in novel ways, on September 24 at 7:30 p.m. and September 25 at 3 p.m. This production explores the emotional and spiritual influence her compositions have had, and continue to have. The Liliʻu Project is dedicated to investigating 尝颈濒颈ʻ耻辞办补濒补苍颈鈥檚 music and memoirs, guided by her own free-spirited innovation and interest in contemporary trends.

The musical ensemble is composed entirely of Leeward CC alumni, and is directed by Associate Professor John Signor.

Following their premiere at in 2014, the ensemble has presented 尝颈濒颈ʻ耻辞办补濒补苍颈鈥檚 compositions on Oʻahu, as guests of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, the Festival Á Corps International Dance Festival in Poitiers, France, and at Soul Force Sacred Music Festival in Pasadena, California. Their current production features performer Ehulani K膩ne and vocalist Starr Kal膩hiki in a re-imagining of the 2014 installation.

Tickets are: $30 general admission, $20 seniors and military, $15 糖心视频 faculty and staff, and $5 糖心视频 and K–12 students.

More information regarding performances and ticket sales is available at: or call (808) 455-0380 or email Ltheatre@hawaii.edu.

More about the Liliʻu Project

The Liliʻu Project is also engaged in educational and community outreach projects about Liliʻuokalani and her impact through workshops, lectures, and performances including collaborations with Carnegie Hall Lullaby Project, M膩lama Honua Charter School, Liliʻuokalani Trust, Matsunaga Institute For Peace in 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 College of Social Sciences, The Peace Studio and various assisted living, library and school presentations.

The project maintains a clear conviction that Queen Liliʻuokalani is among Hawaiʻi鈥檚 most significant and influential song composers, and that her song texts continue to inspire contemplation on universal themes and understanding.

Paul Cravath was a highly inspirational and talented drama professor at for 36 years before retiring in 2011. His innovative curriculum, disciplined approach to acting, and ability to hone talent served his students well as many went on to have successful careers in the entertainment industry. He was also committed to providing his students with life skills that would prove valuable in their careers and personal lives.

Cravath passed away on December 23, 2020, at his home in Silver City, New Mexico, at the age of 76.

His development of the Hawaiian style theatre course inspired students to research locally sourced materials and collaborate on scripts to be performed either on the main stage or in the lab theatre. Cravath selected themes relating to the geographic region surrounding Leeward CC, including culturally relevant issues and regional mythological origin stories.

Former Chancellor Doug Dykstra, Cravath鈥檚 colleague for many years, recalled an instance where the Hawaiian Style Theatre made an impact on students, parents and teachers from Pearl City High School (PCHS).

“Our collaboration with the PCHS Humanities Learning Center, through a grant from the Hawaiʻi Council for the Humanities (HCH), allowed the PCHS teachers and students to gather a collection of oral history documents preserving the history of Pearl City鈥檚 pre-World War II community,” Dykstra said. “These transcripts were interpreted in the HCH publication entitled “Moʻolelo o Manana” by Sheila Nonaka Ellis. Paul鈥檚 students used this publication, and the original transcripts, as source material for their highly successful staging of For ʻEwa at the . Students, parents and teachers from PCHS were thrilled by this stage play that resonated in such a meaningful way.”

For ʻEwa was just one example of Cravath鈥檚 masterful staging. His innovative and creative approach to his craft was reinforced by his intensity in bringing out the best from his student thespians.

—By Tad Saiki

The people of Hawaiʻi have acknowledged the outstanding work done by numerous University of Hawaiʻi campuses, helping 糖心视频 appear among the greatest in the state in Honolulu Star-Advertiser鈥檚 , released on Sunday, August 16.

The 2020 honors include:

• Best College:
• Best Career and Technical Education:
• Best Career and Technical Education Finalists: ,
• Best Tutoring Center: , Windward CC
• Best Art Gallery Finalist: , Windward CC
• Best Live Theatre Finalist: Leeward CC

“It鈥檚 gratifying and humbling to see multiple 糖心视频 campuses recognized as the best by the readers of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser,” said 糖心视频 President David Lassner. “This is a credit to our amazing and devoted faculty and staff who have adapted repeatedly to ensure 糖心视频 continues to provide an excellent education for students during this unprecedented time. Public higher education has never been more critical to Hawaiʻi, and every one of our campuses has remained steadfast in our commitment to to support students of all ages and backgrounds throughout the islands achieve their hopes and dreams.”

The Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best Awards are chosen each year by the readers of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. This year鈥檚 publication featured more than 150 categories. Additionally, the 2020 Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best Awards marks another consecutive year for 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 as the state鈥檚 Best College and Leeward CC鈥檚 sixth consecutive year of recognition in two categories.

“It is an honor for 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 to be recognized as the Best College by the people of Hawaiʻi,” said 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno. “The campus is dedicated to being a Hawaiian place of learning to better support the community in every aspect possible. 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 has a creative and generous spirit, and I am proud of all the efforts made by our students, faculty and staff.”

“This selection of Windward CC‘s as Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best in two categories and finalist in another recognizes the hard work and love our faculty and staff invest in our students, changing lives and inspiring excellence,” added Windward CC Chancellor Ardis Eschenberg. “Mahalo nui to the readers of Star-Advertiser for this award and to our students who make higher education relevant and meaningful.”

The Hawaiʻi State Theatre Council honored the 2020 Poʻokela Award recipients in an online livestream on Facebook and YouTube on August 10. In the virtual award show, “Stars鈥� Night IN,” a spin-off of last year鈥檚 theme, , and theatre programs garnered a multitude of awards.

This year, Windward CC ranked just below Diamond Head Theatre for the most awards, garnering a total of 14 awards for productions Children of Eden and Oriental Faddah and Son and an Excellence in Service Award for Brandon DiPaola, a Windward CC alum. Recognition for Oriental Faddah and Son included five acting Poʻokela Awards earned by students.

“Performing poetry in a vocal chorus takes astonishing precision,” said Taurie Kinoshita, theatre director and instructor at Windward CC. “In order to communicate the meaning of the poem, certain words or phrases need to be emphasized. These actors had to alternate phrases, then share a single word, then individually speak a line, then come in together at the exact same time for another phrase—achieving this kind of unison is stunningly difficult. The accuracy in their vocal choral work these actors achieved was phenomenally impressive. They did this while speaking from the heart, staying focused and in character and adapting to the changing line divisions I kept giving them in order to aurally and visually communicate (author Lee A.) Tonouchi’s powerful poetry to a theatrical audience.”

The Poʻokela Awards have recognized excellence in local theater since 1984. A panel of three adjudicators selects honorees in 23 theater arts categories, including producing, directing, performing, design and technical theater. Awards are given for excellence in each category. The adjudicators may also recognize excellence outside these categories through discretionary awards.

Excellence in Service Award

Each member organization of the Hawaiʻi State Theatre Council may recognize an individual for service to a program or organization during the most recent production season.

• Chelsea Yamashiro, Leeward Theatre
• Brandon DiPaola, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre
• Rachel Sorensen, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Design

Costume Design

• Maile Speetjens, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 assistant professor, I Made’ Widana and Anna Reynolds, The Last King of Bali, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Anna Foster, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre
• Carlynn Wolfe, The Secret in the Wings, Leeward Theatre
• Cindy Fukushima and Samantha Fukushima, Nocturnal Emissions, Leeward Theatre

Sound Design

• Steve Nelson, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre
• John Signor and Sam Willis, The Secret in the Wings, Leeward Theatre
• Emma Torgrimson Lee, The Last King of Bali, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Lighting Design

• Brian Shevelenko, ʻAuʻa ʻIa: Holding On, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Sarah Whitehead, The Secret in the Wings, Leeward Theatre

Set Design

• Michelle Bisbee, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 assistant professor, Murder on the Orient Express, Diamond Head Theatre

Hair, Wig, Makeup Design

• Samantha Fukushima, Nocturnal Emissions, Leeward Theatre
• Maile Speetjens, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 assistant professor, Murder on the Orient Express, Diamond Head Theatre

Performance in a Play

Leading Male

• Dylan Chace Lee, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumnus, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time, 惭腻苍辞补 Valley Theatre鈥�
• Nicolas Logue, assistant professor at Windward CC, Macbeth, Hawaii Shakespeare Festival

Featured Male

• Adrian Khactu, from 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 english department, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time, 惭腻苍辞补 Valley Theatre鈥�

Featured Female

• Kirstyn Galius, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumna, Macbeth, Hawaii Shakespeare Festival
• Ann Brandman, public information officer at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Outreach, Cinderella Waltz, TAG–The Actor鈥檚 Group

Performance in a Musical

Leading Male

• Matthew Pennaz, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumnus, The Sound of Music, Diamond Head Theatre
• Michael Bright, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Leading Female

• Jade Stice and Jade Bright, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Featured Male

• Miguel Cadoy III, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre
• Will Thompson, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumnus, Kinky Boots, Diamond Head Theatre

Featured Female鈥�

• Lauren Cabrera, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Performance in a Non-traditional Production

Leading Male鈥�

• Bandon Hagio and Alakaʻi Cunningham, 鈥嬧�婳riental Faddah and Son, Windward CC 鈥嬧�嫳什贡艟卑炫� Theatre

Leading Female鈥�

• Marilynn Bellinger, 鈥嬧�婳riental Faddah and Son, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Featured Male

• Noah Nakachi and Michael S. Lau, 鈥嬧�婳riental Faddah and Son, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Featured Female鈥�

• Meenakshi Kutty鈥嬧��, 鈥嬧�婳riental Faddah and Son, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Ensemble Performance

Ensemble Performance in a Play

• Faʻalavelave “The Interruption”鈥� by Kiki Rivera, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumna, Kumu Kahua Theatre

Ensemble Performance in a Non-traditional Production

• The Last King of Bali, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• The Secret in the Wings, 鈥嬧�嬧�婰eeward Theatre
• Nocturnal Emissions, Leeward Theatre

Directing

Director of a Play

• Taurie Kinoshita, Macbeth, Hawaii Shakespeare Festival
• Harry Wong III, theatre lecturer at Windward CC, Ua Pau (It is Finished, Over, Destroyed)鈥�, Kumu Kahua Theatre

Director of a Non-traditional Play

• Betty Burdick, The Secret in the Wings, Leeward Theatre
• Taurie Kinoshita, 鈥嬧�婳riental Faddah and Son鈥嬧��, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Musical Director

• John Signor, The Secret in the Wings, Leeward Theatre
• Clarke Bright, Children of Eden, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Dance/Movement/Combat Choreography

• Alex Durrant, dance lecturer at Windward CC, and Nicolas Logue, Macbeth, Hawaii Shakespeare Festival
• Marcelo Pacleb, Children of Eden, Windward CC 鈥嬧�嫳什贡艟卑炫� Theatre
• Nani Marcos and Kira Moriguchi, Nocturnal Emissions, Leeward Theatre

Overall Production

Overall Non-traditional Production

• The Secret in the Wings, Leeward Theatre
• Nocturnal Emissions, Leeward Theatre
• The Last King of Bali, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Pierre Bowman Award

• Thomas Tochiki, 糖心视频 alumnus (posthumously)

Playwriting

• Alani Apio,鈥嬧赌� 糖心视频 alumna, Ua Pau (It is Finished, Over, Destroyed)鈥�, Kumu Kahua Theatre
• Tammy Hailiʻōpua Baker, 鈥嬧��ʻAuʻa ʻIa: Holding On, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Rasa Fournier, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumna, and Kevin Keaveney,鈥� Woman’s Triumph: Celebrating 100 Years鈥�, Hawaiian Mission Houses

Guest Artist

• Greg Zane, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumnus, The Sound of Music, 鈥婦iamond Head Theatre
• I Ketut Wirtawan, I Made’ Widana and I Made’ Moja, The Last King of Bali, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Adjudicator鈥檚 Award

• Props Designer – Sara Ward, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 alumna, 翱苍肠别鈥嬧赌�, 惭腻苍辞补 Valley Theatre
• Guitar Performance – Honybal Sosa, 鈥�The Secret in the Wings, 鈥嬧�婰eeward Theatre

The Hawaiʻi State Theatre Council announced the 2019 Poʻokela Award recipients at “Stars鈥� Night Out” on Monday, August 12, at a gala at the Koʻolau Ballrooms and Conference Center in Kāneʻohe. University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补, Leeward Community College and Windward Community College theater programs brought home a haul of awards.

The Poʻokela Awards have recognized excellence in local theater since 1984. A panel of three adjudicators selects honorees in 23 theater arts categories, including producing, directing, performing, design and technical theater. Awards are given for excellence in each category. The adjudicators may also recognize excellence outside these categories through discretionary awards.

Excellence in Service Award

Each member organization of the Hawaiʻi State Theatre Council may recognize an individual for service to a program or organization during the most recent production season.

• 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre—masters in fine arts (MFA) in directing candidate Katherine Altman
• Leeward Theatre—Marshall Cressy
• Windward Community College 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre—Patricia Brubaker

Excellence in Theatrical Design Awards

Hair, Wig, Makeup Design

• Lisa Ponce de Leon, The Wiz, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Costume Design

• Maile Speetjens, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 assistant professor, A Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Anna Foster, Windward CC The Wiz at 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Scenic Design

• Michelle Bisbee, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 assistant professor, Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Michelle Bisbee, Allegiance, Manoa Valley Theatre
• Claire Paul, In the Heights, Leeward CC Theatre

Lighting Design

• Chris Gouvea, In the Heights, Leeward CC Theatre

Sound Design and Engineering

• Claire Ranney, In the Heights, Leeward CC Theatre

Excellence in Performance Awards

Featured Female in a Play

• Catherine Ann Restivo, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 MFA candidate, The Good Person of Setzuan, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Christine Lamborn, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 MFA candidate, The Country Wife, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Qiaoer Zheng, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 PhD candidate, June is the First Fall, Kumu Kahua Theatre

Leading Male in a Play

• Dean Mo, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 MFA candidate, The Good Person of Setzuan, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Leading Female in a Play

• Christine Chang, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 MFA candidate, The Good Person of Setzuan, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Leading Male in a Musical

• Matthew Pederson, The Wiz, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴

Leading Female in a Musical

• Bailey Barnes, The Wiz, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴
• Kimie Fujioka, In the Heights, Leeward CC Theatre

Featured Female in a Musical

• Kris 10 Misaki, In the Heights, Leeward CC Theatre

Ensemble Performance of a Play

• Dead Accounts, Chaminade/Loo Theatre, Directed by Tyler Haugen, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 MFA candidate
• The Wolves, Kailua Onstage Arts, directed by 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Assistant Professor Stacy Ray

Ensemble Performance in a Non-traditional Production

• A Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Directorial Excellence Awards

Dance/Stage Combat/Movement

• Marcelo Pacleb, The Wiz, Windward CC 笔补濒颈办奴
• Sai Bhatawadekar, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 associate professor, Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Music Direction

• Ike Webster, recent 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 MFA graduate, Something Rotten!, Diamond Head Theatre
• Ike Webster, A Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Direction 鈥� Musical Theatre

• Paul Mitri, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 professor, Allegiance, 惭腻苍辞补 Valley Theatre
• Christopher Patrinos, In the Heights, Leeward CC Theatre

Direction – Play

• Ike Webster, The Good Person of Setzuan, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre
• Stacy Ray, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 assistant professor, The Wolves, Kailua Onstage Arts
• Tyler Haugen, Dead Accounts, Chaminade/Loo Theatre

Direction – Non-traditional Production

• Paul Mitri/Sai Bhatawadekar, A Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Overall Production Excellence Awards

Overall Production of a Musical

• In the Heights, Leeward Theatre

Overall Production of a Play

• Dead Accounts, Chaminade/Loo Theatre, Directed by Tyler Haugen

The Wolves, Kailua Onstage Arts, Directed by 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Assistant Professor Stacy Ray

Overall Production of a Non-traditional Performance

• A Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

Recognition of Hawaiʻi Resident Playwrights鈥� Original Works

• Moses Goods, The Epic Voyage of Kaneʻapua, 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre

Adjudicator鈥檚 Special Awards

• Music/Lyric Composition – Ike Webster/Sai Bhatawadekar, A Midsummer Night’s Bollywood Dream, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Kennedy Theatre

The has awarded Don Ranney, 鈥檚 technical director, the 2019 Excellence in Theatre Education Award from Region 8.

The honor recognizes faculty and staff at universities and colleges throughout the region who go “beyond the call of duty” in devoting their time, efforts, talent and energy on behalf of the students and in support of faculty and staff of their institution.

Ranney was recognized for his unique commitment to 鈥檚 students, his colleagues, Leeward Theatre and his profession.

The award honors his vision, knowledge, high intention and sincere effort in fostering, supporting and developing a greater respect and appreciation for theatre, theatre education and all who participate in it.

Kay Ono, interim dean of academic services states, “We are all so thrilled that Don鈥檚 talent, dedication and commitment to his students and the work at the theatre, has been recognized. He has given so much of himself to the Theatre for more than four decades. Don is truly deserving of the honor.”

Ranney has served as the technical director at Leeward CC‘s theatre since 1977. He has won numerous Poʻokela awards for lighting and set design and has worked closely with a large number of community performing arts companies.

Region 8 of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival is comprised of Arizona, Central and Southern California, Hawaiʻi, Southern Nevada, Utah and Guam. The 2019 festival was held in February at the Los Angeles Theatre Center.

—By Kathleen Cabral

Celebrating its 31st anniversary, the internationally-recognized Hakuoh University Handbell Choir from Japan will be on Oʻahu February 18–24 for its 28th Goodwill Tour of Hawaiʻi, offering free public concerts.

Led by acclaimed director Hirotaka Arai, who founded the choir in 1988, the 15 student handbell ringers will perform free public concerts:

• February 19, at 7 p.m. at Central Union Church, Sanctuary
  1660 S. Beretania St., Honolulu
• February 20, at 7 p.m. at Windward Community College, 笔补濒颈办奴 Theatre,
  45-720 Keaʻahala Rd., Kāneʻohe
• February 21, at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. at Leeward Community College,
  Leeward Theatre, 96-045 Ala ʻIke, Pearl City

The choir will perform a range of selections from classical standards including Mozart鈥檚 “Turkish March” to contemporary hits from Disney鈥檚 Moana, such as “How Far I鈥檒l Go” and the Hawaiian favorite, “Hawaiʻi Aloha.” The choir, based in Oyama City, Tochigi Prefecture, has the capacity to ring seven octaves of handbells, and their dedication to practice and performance has created worldwide demand for their music.

The Goodwill Tour of Hawaiʻi includes a performance for friends of Hakuoh University at a friendship luncheon at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi‘s 惭腻苍辞补 Grand Ballroom.

Hakuoh’s ensemble has performed in Canada, England and South Korea and has entertained audiences including the Emperor and Empress of Japan and the King and Queen of Belgium. They have appeared at Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland and at the International Handbell Symposium in Australia.

In 2018, Hakuoh University renewed an international cooperative agreement with the University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges. The annual Handbell Choir Concert, co-sponsored by Hakuoh University and 糖心视频 Community Colleges, is one of the cooperative activities undertaken by the two institutions.

For more information about the choir’s performances, call (808) 956-0321.

presents its 44th season featuring a burlesque show, a play with an eclectic range of Longs customers, a Tony Award winning musical and much more. All events will be held in the alternative space while the Leeward Theatre is under renovation.

Freak Show

August 30, 31 at 7:30 p.m.
September 1, 6, 7, 8 at 7:30 p.m.

From funky fetish to fabulously grotesque, people find their home at Club Freak where an eclectic group of performers leads the audience on an intimate exploration of fantasies.

Folks You Meet in Longs

November 2, 3, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 at 7:30 p.m.
November 4, 11 at 4 p.m.

Lee Cataluna conjures up an eclectic range of folks one might meet at Longs Drugs, including a wacky neighbor, a nutty co-worker, raucous classmates, the old ladies in Chinatown and the uncles sitting in a garage. This delightful play offers a unique blend of island culture at the beloved gathering place for local folks.

Leeward Coast Guitars鈥� Fall Concert

November 18 at 4 p.m.

Enjoy an afternoon of guitar ensembles, duets and solos. The Leeward Coast Guitars—directed by Peter Frary—stage works by Mozart, Machado, Handel, Dowland and others.

Fall Choral Concert

November 18 at 7 p.m.

The Leeward Community College choir is excited to share diverse and exciting music selections under the direction of Sharon Myung.

For tickets and more information see the .

Congratulations to the University of Hawaiʻi students and faculty for their Poʻokela Award nominations and wins. The Poʻokela Awards have recognized excellence in local theatre since 1984. The awards recognize honorees in 23 different theatre arts categories spanning: producing, directing, performing, design and technical theatre.

Congratulations to all who participated.

University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补

• Excellence in service: Melisa Orozco Vargas
• Pierre Bowman Award: Elizabeth Wichmann-Walczak
• Theatrical design: Hannah Schauer Galli and Yan Ma, Fights and Delights: Three Chinese Comedies
• Lighting design: Christopher Patrinos,The Spitfire Grill, Beyond Therapy, Jonah Bobilin, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
• Set design: Rachel Filbeck, The Spitfire Grill
• Sound design and engineering: Brian Shevelenko and Alten Kiakona, The Spitfire Grill
• Featured male in a play: Donovan Oakleaf, Nora
• Featured female in a play: Malia Wessel, Nora
• Leading female in a play: Christine Lamborn, Nora, Stacy Ray, The Seagull
• Ensemble performance in a musical: The cast of The Spitfire Grill
• Special adjudicator award: Yan Ma and Mark Branner, Fights and Delights: Three Chinese Comedies
• Director of non-traditional production: Elizabeth Wichmann-Walczak and Mark Branner, Fights and Delights: Three Chinese Comedies
• Director of a play: Stacy Ray, Nora
• Overall non-traditional production: Fights and Delights: Three Chinese Comedies
• Overall production of a play: Nora

Windward Community College

• Costume design: Anna Foster, The King and I
• Lighting design: Lloyd Riford, The King and I
• Set design: DeAnne Kennedy, The King and I
• Sound design and engineering: Daniel Yoo, The King and I
• Featured male in a musical: Swaine Kaui, The King and I
• Leading male in a musical: Michael Ng, The King and I
• Leading female in a musical: Kathleen Stuart, The King and I
• Choreography: Andrew Sakaguchi, The King and I
• Musical direction of a musical: Clarke Bright, The King and I
• Director of a musical: Mary Chesnut Hicks, The King and I
• Overall production of a musical: The King and I
• Special adjudicator award: Faith Kaminaka, The King and I
• Hawaiʻi resident playwright鈥檚 original work: Moses Goods, Nanaue the Teenage Sharkman
• Lighting design: Janine Myers, Nanaue the Teenage Sharkman
• Set design: R. Andrew Doan, Nanaue the Teenage Sharkman

Leeward Community College

• Overall play: She Kills Monsters
• Leading male in a play: Jonathan Sabalboro, She Kills Monsters
• Leading female in a play: Juvy Lucina, She Kills Monsters
• Featured male in a play: Justin Woznock, She Kills Monsters
• Featured female in a play: Jarica Mae Abella and Kira Moriguchi, She Kills Monsters
• Special adjudicator award (mask design): Michael Harada, She Kills Monsters
• Director of a play: Betty Burdick, She Kills Monsters
• Excellence in service: Chelsea Campbell

.

Multiple University of Hawaiʻi campuses have been recognized for their excellence by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser鈥檚 .

The 2018 honors included:

• Best College:
• Best Career and Technical Education:
• Best Career and Technical Education Finalists: ,
• Best Tutoring Center Finalist:
• Best Live Theatre Finalist:

“It鈥檚 gratifying to have readers of the state鈥檚 largest daily newspaper recognize their public institutions of higher education as the best,” said 糖心视频 President and Interim 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Chancellor David Lassner. “I thank the dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to excellence at every campus of the University of Hawaiʻi.”

The 贬补飞补颈ʻ颈鈥檚 Best Awards are chosen each year by the readers of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. More than 100 categories are included in this year鈥檚 publication, which was released on June 17, 2018. This was the fourth year in a row that Leeward CC received recognition in two categories.

Leeward Chancellor Manny Cabral said, “I鈥檓 so proud of winning these awards for four years in a row! Our workforce development continues to expand in both credit and non-credit areas. Being selected as 贬补飞补颈ʻ颈鈥檚 Best is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of everyone at the college. We鈥檙e also thrilled for the finalist award for our theatre, which is currently in the final stages of renovation.”

Crafting real and imaginary worlds through masks is both a challenge and a joy for Michael Harada, assistant professor of art. He’s been working tirelessly on the current production of She Kills Monsters, sculpting a masterful brigade of papier-mach茅 demons and ogres for the comedic romp through the world of fantasy role-playing.

More than a dozen full-head masks were created for the theatre production, along with an array of props. Harada spent an average of 10-12 hours on each mask.

“I knew how important these visual elements were going to be in the intimate performance space,” states Harada. “The play is an ambitious project for such a small space. The visual impact of the masks was really important, so when Betty (Burdick, the director) asked for my help, of course I jumped on board.”

• Related 糖心视频 News story: Leeward Theatre presents She Kills Monsters, a comedic romp into the world of fantasy, October 12, 2017

Harada’s fascination with masks began in the early 90s when he started collaborating with , a local dance theatre company. He’s gone on to design and construct masks, props and sets for Honolulu Theatre for Youth, Kumu Kahua, 惭腻苍辞补 Valley Theatre and, of course, Leeward Theatre productions.

When asked how doing these projects impact his teaching, he replied with a knowing grin, “It reminds me of the value of hard work.”

Harada graduated from the with a bachelor’s degree and master of fine arts in printmaking. He presents workshops on making masks from recycled cardboard as part of Leeward’s Earth Week activities and continues to expand his mask-making skills. Last year, he learned the traditional wood carving techniques for Japanese Noh theatre masks.

—By Kathleen Cabral

The is proud to present She Kills Monsters by Qui Nguyen on November 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 17, 18 at 8 p.m. and November 19 at 4 p.m. Due to renovations at the Leeward Theater, the showings will take place in the new Leeward Theatre Alternate Space.

A comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games, She Kills Monsters tells the story of Agnes Evans as she leaves her childhood home in Ohio following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s dungeons and dragons notebook, however, she stumbles into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was Tilly’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres and 90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.

Leeward faculty member and award winning local director Betty Burdick will be directing the production.聽Nicholas Logue of will be choreographing the many fights.

Burdick has directed past shows from the Leeward Theater such as Alice in Wonderland, Twelfth Night, Titus Andronicus, Clockwork, A Dark and Stormy Knight, Tartuffe, and most recently, The Comedy of Errors. Some of the students and alumni in the production have also starred in Burdick’s past shows or have taken theater classes with her.

She Kills Monsters is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

Performance information

Location

• The Leeward Theatre Alternate Space at Leeward CC (room AM-101). Please be aware that, due to ongoing rail construction, traffic may be heavier than normal. Please plan accordingly.

Tickets

• $15 General admission
• $10 Current Leeward students

There are no other discounts offered. Tickets are on sale now. Please be advised that our new space only has 50 seats so shows sell out fast. .

For additional information please visit the .

Although is currently undergoing a major renovation, the theatre is not completely dark. Leeward Theatre’s reduced 43rd season features a burlesque show, improv comedy, plantation plays and more.

Almost all of the productions are currently scheduled to happen in the new “Alternate Space” (formerly room AM-101).

Leeeward Theatre productions

• The Monsters and Maidens Burlesque Show
  August 31 at 8 p.m.
  September 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 and 10 at 8 p.m.

  The Monsters and Maidens Burlesque Show is a fundraiser for Leeward Theatre’s fall production and will consist of RPG (role playing games) themes much like the oldie but goodie RPG—Dungeons and Dragons. This will be a variety show with burlesque performances intertwined with comedic sketches, dance, singing and incorporating some of the EDM culture (electric dance music) through gloving. Seating is limited so get your tickets early.

• On the Spot Improv’s Hush
  September 23 at 8 p.m.
  September 24 at 4 p.m.

  Local improv comedy troupe On the Spot remounts their critically acclaimed, live-action, 1920s improvised, silent movie Hush, which was recently invited to appear at the prestigious Slapdash International Improv Festival this October in London England. Set in the style of the biggest silent movie stars of the day such as Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and Buster Keaton, On The Spot’s: Hush captures all the drama and nostalgia of the silent movie era, with strong characters, physical comedy and live musical accompaniment.

• Plantation Plays
  Performances are site specific, located at Hawaiʻi’s Village
  November 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at Noon

  Due to their overwhelming popularity, Leeward Theatre will remount Plantation Plays and has commissioned three local playwrights—Courtney Takabayashi, Kirstyn Trombetta and Kiki—to create site specific work for the annual children’s theatre production.

  Tickets and any additional information is available by contacting Hawaiʻi’s Plantation Village at (808) 677-0110 or email.

• She Kills Monsters
  November 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 17, 18, 19 at 8 p.m.

  A comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games, She Kills Monsters tells the story of Agnes Evans as she leaves her childhood home in Ohio following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s Dungeons and Dragons notebook, however, she stumbles into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was Tilly’s refuge. Seating is limited.

• Fall Choir Concert
  December 2 at 7 p.m.

  Experience the Leeward CC choir first hand under the direction of Sharon Myung. Seating is limited.

• Fall Guitar Concert
  December 3 at 4 p.m.

  An afternoon of guitar ensembles, duets and solos. The Leeward Coast Guitars—directed by Peter Frary—stage works by Mozart, Machado, Dowland and others. Seating is limited.

• Merchant of Venice
  April 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 8 p.m.

  The spring 2018 Semester of Shakespeare will feature the beautiful and controversial Merchant of Venice. In this lively comedy of love and money in sixteenth-century Venice, Bassanio wants to impress the wealthy heiress Portia but lacks the necessary funds. He turns to his merchant friend, Antonio, who is forced to borrow from Shylock, a Jewish moneylender. When Antonio’s business falters, repayment becomes impossible鈥攁nd by the terms of the loan agreement, Shylock is able to demand a pound of Antonio’s flesh. Portia cleverly intervenes, and all ends well (except of course for Shylock).

• Spring Guitar Concert
  April 22 at 4 p.m.

  An afternoon of guitar ensembles, duets and solos. The Leeward Coast Guitars—directed by Peter Frary—stage works by Mozart, Machado, Dowland, and Others. Seating is limited.

• Spring Choir Concert
  April 28 at 7 p.m.

  Experience the Leeward CC choir first hand under the direction of Sharon Myung. Join us at one of their exciting concerts. Seating is limited.

The people have spoken! was selected for Best Career/Technical Education and the was named Best College in the released on Sunday, June 18.

Also recognized as Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best were second and third on the career/technical education list and 糖心视频 Hilo second on the college list. also won second place in the live theater category.

“I’m so proud of winning these awards for three years in a row!” said Chancellor Manny Cabral. “Our workforce development continues to expand in both credit and non-credit areas. Being selected as Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of everyone at the college. We鈥檙e also thrilled for the second place award for our theatre, which is currently undergoing a long-awaited renovation.”

Dean of Leeward’s Ron Umehira added, “Our appreciation goes out to all those that voted for Leeward CC and recognized the quality of programs.”

“We are gratified and humbled that 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 has been recognized as Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best College,“ said Interim 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Chancellor David Lassner. “We stand committed to strengthen the campus as a student-centered research university that embodies a Hawaiian place of learning with strong support services that help every student realize their dreams. We can鈥檛 wait to welcome our fall 2017 incoming class.”

For more on Leeward鈥檚 award, .

The Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Best Awards are annually chosen by the readers of the Honolulu Star Advertiser. More than one hundred categories are included in this year’s Star-Advertiser publication.