‘Imiloa hosts hula-related events

Subscribe Now Choose a package that suits your preferences.
Start Free Account Get access to 7 premium stories every month for FREE!
Already a Subscriber? Current print subscriber? Activate your complimentary Digital account.

‘Imiloa Astronomy Center is offering four days of hula-related programs during the Merrie Monarch Festival.

‘Imiloa Astronomy Center is offering four days of hula-related programs during the Merrie Monarch Festival.

The 2015 Merrie Monarch Cultural Enrichment Events continue through Friday.

At 10 a.m. today, the Hula Preservation Society presents, “‘Iolani Luahine; Legacy of a Hula Master.” The society will feature the digitally preserved film of “Aunty ‘Io” and recount her contributions to the preservation of hula and the Hawaiian culture, followed at 1 p.m. by the talented Lim ohana of Kohala. Slack-key guitarist Sonny Lim, kumu hula Nani Lim Yap and award-winning vocalist Lorna Lim combine their voices and instruments to create the sweet sounds of traditional and contemporary Hawaii.

Beginning at 10 a.m. Thursday, events include a musical performance by Waipuna, recipients of five Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. Musicians Kale Hannahs and Matthew Sproat, along with David Kamakahi, expand the expectations and push the limits of Hawaiian music while perpetuating the traditions of their predecessors.

At 1 p.m., enjoy the Hula Preservation Society’s presentation titled “Remembering Aunty Nona Beamer.” Join Aunty Nona’s hanai children, Maile Loo and Kaliko Trapp, along with dear friend, Calvin Hoe, in celebration of this beloved kupuna and teacher who embodied aloha and touched and inspired hearts around the world.

The week concludes with two outstanding musical performances, beginning at 10 a.m. Friday with Kuana Torres, accomplished musician, songwriter and winner of seven Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. Torres will perform mele from the “Music for the Hawaiian Islands” series.

At 1 p.m., award-winning artist Sean Na‘auao will grace the ‘Imiloa stage, performing original music from his most recent CD, “Na‘auao,” named Na Hoku Hanohano Award’s Best Engineered CD of 2014.

Tickets are $10 per session, $8 for ‘Imiloa members and $15 at the door. Tickets include admission to ‘Imiloa’s exhibit hall. Seating is limited.

Call 969-9703 or visit the ‘Imiloa guest service desk to purchase tickets. For a complete schedule of program times, visit www.imiloahawaii.org.