In February, the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii will kick off ‘Imiakea: Discovering Maunakea, an exciting new monthly program series aimed at expanding understanding of all the dimensions represented by Mauna Kea.
In February, the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii will kick off ‘Imiakea: Discovering Maunakea, an exciting new monthly program series aimed at expanding understanding of all the dimensions represented by Mauna Kea.
“Since opening our doors in February 2006, ‘Imiloa has had an impact on several hundred thousand kama‘aina and visitors alike,” said Ka‘iu Kimura, ‘Imiloa executive director. “Now as we enter our second decade, we are making a concerted effort to build on this work and expand our reach as we continue to honor Mauna Kea by inspiring new generations to carry on the Hawaiian traditions of exploration and discovery through modern science and technology.”
The ‘Imiakea series will consist of monthly events hosted at ‘Imiloa, ranging from performances and hands-on workshops with practitioners, to interactive panel discussions with experts in various fields and community experiences. It might include all-day family events as well.
The first program, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, will be an evening of mele, hula and conversation with two of Hilo’s own young and respected kumu hula, husband and wife Kekoa and Pele Harman.
As graduates and faculty of ‘Imiloa’s consortium partner Ka Haka ‘Ula O Ke‘elik‘lani College of Hawaiian Language, the Harmans are intimately involved in the Hawaiian language movement and community. Hula and mele, moreover, run deep in their roots as practitioners and back through their kupuna: Pele Harman is the mo‘opuna (grandchild) of esteemed kumu hula, scholar and historian Mary Kawena Puku‘i.
The Harmans will present the mele “Maunakea,” an appropriate choice to begin the ‘Imiakea series for its embodiment of a true sense of “aloha aina,” or love for place. “Maunakea” is understood to be one of several mele written for Queen Emma’s 1883 visit to Hawaii Island and it recounts her travels and notes unique characteristics of the areas dear to her heart.
The cost is $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. Pre-purchase tickets at the ‘Imiloa front desk or by phone at 932-8901.
For more information about the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, visit www.imiloahawaii.org.