Oahu-based magician Kaulana will be showcased next week during the 21st annual World of Magic performance at the Palace Theater in downtown Hilo.
The World of Magic, sponsored by the Hilo Elks Lodge 759, is back this year from 2 p.m. to 3:30 pm. on Sunday, Dec. 3.
“We’re so excited to have Kaulana as our headliner, since it’s been since 2016 since he performed with us,” said Lily Chan-Harris of the Hilo Elks. “We like to rotate through performers to keep things fresh for our audiences who come each year.”
Born and raised on Oahu, Kaulana grew up knowing he had a gift, and at the age of 8, he discovered magic.
By 12 years old, Kaulana began performing for audiences across the island. At 16, he formed Torch Hawaii, an entertainment and event company that creates innovative experiences throughout the state.
Kaulana is an eight-time award-winning magician who toured the state as the “Youngest Professional Magician in Hawaii,” before graduating high school.
After performing for sold-out shows consistently, Kaulana was deemed the “The Most Unique Magician in Hawaii.”
After nearly 32 years as a magician, Kaulana is still running Torch Hawaii, performing magic and hosting events with his deep love of entertaining and interacting with audiences.
“I think what’s kept me going is performance and engaging with audiences. It’s about that interaction and reaction, along with the creativity needed to create new concepts,” Kaulana said. “It’s not easy, but it’s so fun, and I love it even more after having a rough time during COVID-19.
Kaulana plans to showcase some of his classic tricks on Sunday, but also will trying out some new concepts.
“Every performance is so different, every time, and that all comes down to how I can entertain specific audiences,” Kaulana said. “I’ve noticed that when I’m performing magic, people put their phones down to watch and be fully entertained by the magic in front of them. It’s so fun to interact with people, especially those who aren’t used to seeing live magic.”
Kaulana also works with numerous schools and youth organizations to educate and empower youth. He brings awareness to issues plaguing students, such as bullying.
Next year, he’s hoping to continue working with the state Department of Education so he can perform at schools on the Big Island.
“I’ve worked with youth for 21 years and have learned so much from different generations of kids. It’s great to see how they perceive life,” Kaulana said.
Kaulana said he is looking forward to returning to the Palace Theater to perform for the unique audience that Hilo always brings to his magic shows.
“I love the energy and vibe I get from Hilo audiences, especially while performing at the Palace,” Kaulana said. “I’m hoping we get a packed crowd and we’re able to give back to the Elks as a great community organization.”
The master of ceremony will be East Hawaii magician duo Bruce and Jennifer Meyers, who will be doing smaller tricks and hosting the event. Santa also will be making an appearance with cheers and some presents, too.
Chan-Harris said the Elks are excited to present Sunday’s magic show — especially for those keiki who have never seen one in person.
“I was talking to a colleague recently who’s grandson had never seen a real-life magician, and I think that’s common for kids on the Big Island,” Chan-Harris said. “I don’t think there are often magic shows in Hilo, so we love continuing this tradition so people can have the opportunity to see a real life show.”
Admission to this performance is free, and donations are welcomed. For more information, contact Chan-Harris at the Hilo Elks at (808) 938-2387.