New theater group brings Hawaiian culture to island youth


The Maui News reports:

A new performing arts group is presenting Hawaiian culture to Maui's schoolchildren through an hour-long production at Lahaina's Maui Theater, the home of "`Ulalena." From initial reports, it looks like a hit.

In fact, most of the cast members of the group called 'Aheleakala are part of the "'Ulalena" family. With the co-sponsorship of the Department of Education, Derek "Pono" Murray has written and directed "I ka wa kahiko (Once upon a time)" along with being the chanter for the production, which premiered March 16 and will be performed the mornings of Thursday, Friday and May 26.

The show opens with the "Kumulipo" and is packed with hula, chant, storytelling, imaginative costumes, singing lauhala trees, acrobatic menehune, the story of Pele, the comic story of Maui and the firebirds, the chance for audience participation and more.

The first two shows have been filled with enthusiastic youngsters and Murray sees this as an auspicious beginning.

"We're working toward nonprofit status," he said. "We hope to take the show to other islands and to perform once or twice a month during the summer."

"'Aheleakala" means the rays of the sun. "We are the carriers of this sun to shine upon and enlighten," Murray wrote.

"To touch the hearts of the island's children with the warmth of our gift. To bring to mind the richness of our heritage and traditions of our great Hawaiian people. The mind of a child is entranced by this place of myth and wonder. It needs to be found and brought to a place for the heart and mind to enjoy its life."

Murray can be reached at 875-6134.

Copyright © 2003 — The Maui News

Posted: Sun - May 9, 2004 at 10:42 AM    
   
 
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Published On: Dec 27, 2005 10:15 PM
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