Arts & Entertainment
Meet the artists and craftspeople keeping Hawai‘i traditions alive
Hawai‘i is filled with talented, passionate artists and performers. In recent months we’ve featured an ‘ukulele maker, sculptors, hula performers, Native Hawaiian language experts, anime cosplayers, symphony musicians, local filmmakers, Okinawan drummers, musical theatre performers, and more. We’ve covered film festivals, comedy acts, live theater and classical concerts and more. This is where you’ll also find news about TV shows and movies filmed in the Islands or about Hawai‘i, and the actors attached to them. Venues matter, too, and we’ll update readers on improvements such as the recent upgrades to the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall and the Waikīkī Shell.
News
Your guide to Labor Day weekend
Wondering how to spend the long weekend? Aloha State Daily has you covered. Check out activities for the 80th Commemoration of WWII, including an air show plus a free concert by the Mākaha Sons; enjoy the Okinawan Festival; or find the latest fashion at the Hawaiʻi Swim Show. Learn more about these events and others happening Friday, Aug. 29, through Sunday, Aug. 31.
Katie HellandAugust 27, 2025
Actor Moses Goods shares how he gets into character for “Chief of War”
With four episodes left of “Chief of War,” the Apple TV+ mini-series written and executive produced by Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa‘a Sibbett, Aloha State Daily talks story with actor Moses Goods, who plays Moku, advisor to the future King Kamehameha I. He shares how he gets into character — and one challenge of wearing a malo in New Zealand.
Katie HellandAugust 26, 2025
Kay Fukumoto reflects on Maui Taiko’s Lahaina performances
Maui Taiko recently performed in the Lahaina O-Bon Festival, held at the site of the Lahaina Jodo Mission, which was destroyed in the Maui wildfires of 2023. On Friday, Aug. 15, the group also performed in a benefit concert to help Lahaina rebuild and to cultivate a music program for youth in West Maui.
Katie HellandAugust 22, 2025
Fiji Tribute: get free tickets
A one-night-only tribute to George Brooks Veikoso, known by the stage name Fiji, is coming to Honolulu next month. Catch headliners J Boog, Common Kings, Maoli and more. Free tickets become available on Friday, Aug. 22.
Katie HellandAugust 21, 2025
Ledward Kaapana: Catching up with a legend
The Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning slack key guitarist was recently the opening act of the Maui Music & Food Experience, a benefit to help Lahaina rebuild and to support a new music program for youth in West Maui. This weekend, Kaapana is a featured performer for the Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival, Waikīkī Style, which supports the Waikīkī Aquarium. But this seasoned performer also plays at airports and hospitals, in between concerts.
Katie HellandAugust 21, 2025
Catch football, surf contests, Henry Kapono, and ʻOlympics of the piano’ : Friday, Aug. 22 to Sunday, Aug. 24
Ready to make weekend plans? Aloha State Daily rounded up a list of things to do. From the first football game of the season for the Rainbow Warriors to performances by Henry Kapono, here are some ideas of fun things to do on Oʻahu.
Katie HellandAugust 20, 2025
Watch animals 'born to surf' in Waikīkī
Volunteer organizer Kelli Hergert shares the history behind and what to expect this year at The Raising Cane’s Going to the Dogs SurFur ComPETition at Duke Kahanamoku OceanFest this Thursday, Aug. 21, at Kūhiō Beach. Spectators can enjoy all-day surf action by dogs, a cat and their humans.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 19, 2025
Henry Kapono reflects on new music, ahead of concerts
The Nā Hōkū Hanohano award-winning singer and songwriter shared the inspiration for his well known song “Sailing,” ahead of several upcoming concerts, including a tribute to his friend Jimmy Buffett on Aug. 24. Next month, the Henry Kapono Foundation will also host its “We Are Friends” fundraiser on Sept. 28.
Katie HellandAugust 19, 2025
Visit this museum for free on Labor Day
Hawaiʻi residents and active military can now pre-register for free tickets to tour the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, including the USS Bowfin, on Aug. 30 through Sept. 1.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 15, 2025
Catch the Keʻalohi International Piano Competition: free quarterfinal and semifinal performances
The winner of this competition takes home a $10,000 cash award and the top finalists perform with the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra. The contest draws pianists from around the world to O’ahu, where they are competing this month.
Katie HellandAugust 15, 2025
Auction: bid to support the Bishop Museum
E Ulu A Paʻa, an online auction to benefit the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, opens for bids at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14. The 11-day event benefits the museum and its work.
Katie HellandAugust 13, 2025
Zippy’s Restaurants and others weigh in on Taylor Swift’s new album
Taylor Swift is in her orange era. And Hawaiʻi-based brands are joining in the fun with creative posts on social media. Aloha State Daily rounded up a few from the past 48 hours, following Swift’s announcement of a twelfth studio album: “The Life of a Showgirl.”
Katie Helland & Kady PascualAugust 13, 2025
Goodwill Goes Glam, Made in Hawaii Festival and music: Friday, Aug. 15 through Sunday, Aug. 17
From watching musicians Paula Fuga and Tavana take the stage, to buying locally made products at the Made in Hawaiʻi Festival, there is so much happening across the Islands. Aloha State Daily rounded up a list of ideas of things to do, so you don’t have to.
Katie HellandAugust 13, 2025
Aloha Collection to release Hōkūleʻa special edition bags
This brand is teaming up with the Polynesian Voyaging Society to honor the 50th birthday of Hōkūleʻa, which has inspired generations of new voyagers. The collaboration led to a group of special edition splash-proof bags, which release later this month.
Katie HellandAugust 12, 2025
Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement gets a new name
After more than two decades as the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, the nonprofit has a new name, which replaces five words with just two.
Katie HellandAugust 11, 2025
Artists take history and “put it in a song” for upcoming Oʻahu concert
How do you share a message in Hawaiʻi? Through music and dance, according to Berkeley-based Kumu Hula Māhealani Uchiyama. She will join Grammy winner Kalani Peʻa and a number of Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winners to perform songs from the new album, “Pōpoloheno: Songs of Resilience & Joy,” which celebrates the stories of people of African descent in Hawaiian history.
Katie HellandAugust 09, 2025
Photographing ʻThe Eddieʻ : John Hook takes us behind the lens
If you’ve watched The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, you’ve seen photographers bobbing in the waves to capture iconic images of surfers from around the world. On Friday, Aug. 8, several photographers, including Oʻahu-based John Hook, will share what it is like to capture photos from the water. Hook reflects on how he got started, as well why these photographers wear helmets.
Katie HellandAugust 08, 2025
State Librarian shares plans for Wahiawā Public Library
Learn about outdoor reading spaces and the children’s area planned for the new Wahiawā Public Library.
Katie HellandAugust 07, 2025
Honolulu remembers Hiroshima and Nagasaki with film, music
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of bombings at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, there will be a film projection at Waikīkī War Memorial Natatorium on Wednesday and a musical performance at the University of Hawaiʻi’s Kennedy Theatre on Saturday.
Katie HellandAugust 07, 2025
Blue Angels, photography and a full moon: Friday, Aug. 8 through Sunday, Aug. 10
From watching the U.S. Navy Blue Angels to meeting photographers for the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, there is plenty to do on Oʻahu this weekend. Aloha State Daily rounded up a list of ideas, so you don’t have to.
Katie HellandAugust 06, 2025
Kāneʻohe Bay Air Show: 8 things to know
Planes and automobiles are just part of the attractions at the Kāneʻohe Bay Air Show, which will be held this Friday, Aug. 8, through Sunday, Aug. 10. The free event allows attendees the chance to explore military aircrafts and listen to live music. Here are tips for the event this weekend, which organizers estimate will draw 100,000 people over three days.
Katie HellandAugust 05, 2025
Listen to Paula Fuga and help Lahaina rebuild
The Nā Hōkū Hanohano award-winning singer and songwriter Paula Fuga will perform one of her favorite songs, “No Place like Home,” at the Maui Music & Food Experience on Aug. 15 and 16. She reflected on music ahead of the benefit concert to support Hua Momona Foundation’s mission to combat food insecurity, accelerate the Lahaina rebuild after the wildfires and cultivate the music scene for youth on Maui.
Katie HellandAugust 02, 2025
“Chief of War” premieres on Apple TV+
The television mini-series was written and executive produced by Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa‘a Sibbett. It was filmed in New Zealand and Hawaiʻi. Producers Angie Laprete and Brian Keaulana spoke with Aloha State Daily ahead of the premiere.
Katie HellandAugust 01, 2025
Producers share details of Hawaiʻi Film Alliance
Hawaiʻi Film Alliance, a group that launched July 14, is working to bring more productions to the Islands. Aloha State Daily spoke with Angie Laprete and Brian Keaulana, who are founding members of the alliance and also part of team working on "Chief of War."
Katie HellandAugust 01, 2025
Listen to the Mike Love song people quit their jobs over
Raised on Oʻahu, Mike Love brings island music to audiences around the world. On Thursday, July 31, the singer who brought music lovers “Permanent Holiday” will play two solo shows at the Blue Note Hawaiʻi. Love spoke with Aloha State Daily about the song that went viral on YouTube and his 2025 Tour Hawaiʻi.
Katie HellandJuly 31, 2025
Watch “Chief of War” and participate in festivals: Friday, Aug. 1 through Sunday, Aug. 3
Looking for things to do this weekend? From festivals to the premiere of “Chief of War,” Aloha State Daily has got you covered for island entertainment. Here are a few activities happening Friday, Aug. 1, through Sunday, Aug. 3.
Katie HellandJuly 30, 2025
Meet Miss Hawai‘i 2025 Emalia Dalire
Born and raised in Kāneʻohe, Dalire, 19, was crowned by the Miss Hawaiʻi Organization in May and will soon be headed to The Miss America Competition. Those interested in supporting her journey are welcome to come out to a fundraiser this Friday, Aug. 1, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Bayview Golf Course, featuring live music, small bites and door prizes.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 29, 2025
Artists remember George Brooks Veikoso, known as Fiji
Singers, songwriters and actors honored “the king of island-reggae music" in posts on social media and at concerts. George Brooks Veikoso, known as Fiji, moved to Hawaiʻi when he was a teenager.
Katie HellandJuly 29, 2025
‘Ohina Labs seeks applicants for annual filmmakers workshop
Do you have a story to tell? Do you live in Hawaiʻi? If you answered yes to these questions, you might be a match for ʻOhina Labs, an Oʻahu-based filmmakersʻ workshop, which pairs writers of short scripts with mentors in the entertainment industry.
Katie HellandJuly 25, 2025
Kapenaʻs founder shares preview of show with Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra
Island music will meet an orchestra with a one-night performance this Aloha Friday. Kelly Boy De Lima, founder of the band, Kapena, shared details about its upcoming show with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra at the Tom Moffat Waikīkī Shell on Friday, July 25. The band includes three generations of family, including De Lima, several of his children and his grandson.
Katie HellandJuly 24, 2025
What to do this weekend on Oʻahu: Friday, July 25, to Sunday, July 27
Enjoy live music, $3 sushi, and back-to-school offers this weekend on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The band Kapena will perform alongside the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra on Friday, July 25. The following day, keiki can also enjoy free school supplies and haircuts on a first-come, first-served basis through Child & Family Service.
Katie HellandJuly 23, 2025
Native Hawaiian-owned design and manufacturing companies aim to ʻuplift communityʻ
Tanya Uyehara, owner and designer of Lahaʻole Designs, also runs Kāholo Manufacturing Co., both of which currently operate out of Chinatown. She shares how her products share stories that “add intention and purpose” in a fast-fashion age. As Uyehara eyes a new location to take on more manufacturing clients, she's also getting ready for an exclusive release at Made in Hawai'i Festival.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 23, 2025
New music from North Shore brothers Nyjah Music & Zyah Rhythm
This duo of brothers just released the new song, “You Should Be,” on June 30. Their voices are also featured in Disney’s live action “Lilo & Stitch” movie, where they performed “Burning Love.”
Katie HellandJuly 22, 2025
“American Idol” winner Iam Tongi reflects on “Sunshine” and “Lilo & Stitch”
Iam Tongi, who grew up in Kahuku, just had his debut at the Grand Ole Opry. In 2023, he became the first Pacific Islander to win “American Idol.” In the past few months, he released several songs, including “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” in Disney’s live action version of “Lilo & Stitch.” In an exclusive Q+A with Aloha State Daily, Tongi reflects on positivity, recent milestones, and advice from his auntie.
Katie HellandJuly 21, 2025
Jake Shimabukuro has four shows at the Blue Note Hawaiʻi this week
This ʻukulele virtuoso has shows in Honolulu next week. Read about his recent Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards and his award-winning collaboration with Mick Fleetwood, the leader of the rock band Fleetwood Mac.
Katie HellandJuly 20, 2025
Archway planned for Honolulu's Chinatown
The effort is being spearheaded by L&L Hawaiian Barbecue co-founder Eddie Flores, who also serves as the chairman of A Better Chinatown Association, a nonprofit leading fundraising for the project.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 18, 2025
Oʻahu-based 8RO8 shares inspiration for new single, “On Sight”
What is the sound of aloha? 8RO8 is one artist here to find out. He grew up in Mākaha and pursued music after high school, while working at McDonald’s. Now, he has more than 230,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Learn about his new song, “On Sight,” released July 1.
Katie HellandJuly 17, 2025
Community leaders continue celebrations for Obon and plan to commemorate Hiroshima
Obon season is well underway in Hawaiʻi. Learn more from past and current leaders of the United Japanese Society of Hawaiʻi, who share about the recent Obon Memorial Service, the nonprofit's mission and their own family ties to Makiki, the place where early immigrants lay to rest, and Japan.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 16, 2025
6 weekend activities for $3 or less
Aloha State Daily has compiled a list of events and activities happening this Saturday, July 19, and Sunday, July 20. Looking for live music and opportunities to walk, talk and shop? We have you covered!
Katie HellandJuly 16, 2025
Local artist adds gyotaku art – Japanese fish printing – to portfolio
Oʻahu resident Jade Fernandez started Hapa Girl Studio in 2020 to showcase her digital prints of surfer girls, which grew to include Hawai’i flowers, plants and birds. Now, she’s working on an exclusive collection for Made in Hawai’i Festival, which will feature gyotaku art – a traditional Japanese fish printing method.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 16, 2025
Molokai luthier Eric DeVine to share building process
The owner of DeVine Guitars and ʻUkuleles picked up the profession of building instruments after taking a community college class on the Mainland. Today, his custom guitars and ʻukulele designs feature woods from around the world, along with opals, emeralds and black coral.
Katie HellandJuly 15, 2025
Waimānalo Beach Parkʻs campgrounds get new name
Learn about the groundskeeper, George Keʻa Mahoe Jr., who was honored this week by the Department of Parks and Recreation for a 40-year career working at beach parks across East Oʻahu.
Katie HellandJuly 12, 2025
Insect-A-Palooza flies into Honolulu
Do your keiki love insects? This event, presented by Patagonia Honolulu and the University of Hawaiʻi Insect Museum, gives kids of all ages a chance to learn about native bugs.
Katie HellandJuly 11, 2025
"Sharing Aloha" documentary to premiere next month
The film shares the stories of student workers who perform at the Polynesian Cultural Center. The nonprofit attraction's ticket sales cover daily operations and support the education of student employees at the nearby Brigham Young University - Hawaiʻi.
Katie HellandJuly 11, 2025
Mayor appoints new executive director for office of culture and the arts
She will lead arts and culture initiatives through strategic and community-informed programing for the Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts for the City and County of Honolulu.
Katie HellandJuly 10, 2025
ʻUkulele virtuosos from across the world to headline festival
Love ʻukulele music? This free concert's headliners include Taimane Gardner, Herb Ohta Jr. and Kazuyuki Sekiguchi.
Katie HellandJuly 10, 2025
Three-city benefit concert tour to kick off in Lahaina
From Aug. 15 to 16, the Hua Momona Foundation will host its second annual Maui Music & Food Experience at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, showcasing nationwide musicians and chefs. Proceeds from the tour will go toward the foundation’s efforts to address food insecurity and invest in youth music programs on Maui.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 09, 2025
10 things to do on Oʻahu: Friday, July 11, to Sunday, July 13
From tea with butterflies to live music, Aloha State Daily has you covered. Here are just a sampling of fun activities you can pursue across Oʻahu this weekend.
Katie HellandJuly 09, 2025
Kauaʻi mayor declares 'Sydney Elizebeth Agudong Day'
The Kauaʻi Visitors Bureau hosted events to celebrate the live action remake of “Lilo & Stitch.” As part of the activities, the mayor for the County of Kauaʻi honored this Kauaʻi-born actress for her role in the film.
Katie HellandJuly 09, 2025
Lānaʻi resident Vince Cabanilla bridges art and community
The Lānaʻi Art Center is a nonprofit art gallery offering spaces for keiki to kūpuna to create and come together. Aloha State Daily spoke with the center’s co-director Vince Cabanilla about challenges, upcoming events and how art has helped to heal those affected by the 2023 Lahaina fire.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 08, 2025
Australian director brings “Side by Side by Sondheim” to Mānoa Valley Theatre
The show’s director and choreographer, James Wright, gives readers a preview of the plot and shares what sets this production apart from others.
Katie HellandJuly 07, 2025
Honolulu-based author wins national award
Alice Inoue is a life coach, business founder and astrologer. The award-winning author just added another accolade to her career, an award for her newest book “Daily Mindful Moments: A Year of Life Wisdom.”
Katie HellandJuly 04, 2025
Fundraising progresses for new documentary spotlighting Hawaiʻi soldiers who share aloha
Filmmaker Steve Sue, founder and chairman of ID8, which is the nonprofit producing “The 100th: Seeds of Aloha,” shares the story of the 100th Infantry Battalion unit that fought in World War II. Sue provides an update about this project and the trilogy it's part of that largely relies on donor support.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 04, 2025
Ballet Hawaiʻi's “Reflections in Motion" showcase features students, alongside professionals
Ballet Hawaiʻi is hosting a summer intensive for students that brings experts in dance from across the country to Oʻahu for four weeks. Here is how you can get tickets to the one-night dance showcase featuring classical ballet, as well as Broadway-inspired choreography.
Katie HellandJuly 03, 2025
Parker Ranch to host rodeo and horse races on July 4
Start the holiday weekend with a visit to Waimea, where Parker Ranch is hosting its 61st annual rodeo and races. Fifth generation rancher DeeDee Keakealani Bertelmann shares the history of the event and tips on how to get good seats and navigate the weather.
Katie HellandJuly 03, 2025
New deputy director named for Honolulu's Department of Enterprise Services
The new hire replaces Tracy Kubota, who retired last month after a 30-year career in public service. The department manages several entertainment venues, including the Neal S. Blaisdell Center and the Tom Moffat Waikīkī Shell.
Katie HellandJuly 02, 2025
CNHA assumes operation of Bishop Museum gift shop
With the move comes plans to refresh the space under a new name and showcase Hawai‘i-made and designed projects, the organizations recently announced.
Stephanie SalmonsJuly 01, 2025
Oʻahu fireworks: your preview for July 4
Looking for fireworks that crackle and shimmer in the night sky on Independence Day? Aloha State Daily has you covered. We have rounded up possible shows for you and the keiki to enjoy from Waikīkī to the North Shore.
Katie HellandJune 30, 2025
5 ways to celebrate the July 4 weekend (mostly without fireworks)
Aloha State Daily has rounded up some ways to enjoy the long weekend with music, rodeo activities, horse races and pool time. Make your plans now! The weekend is just a few days away.
Katie HellandJune 29, 2025
Disney announces second live action “Lilo & Stitch” movie
The statement from Walt Disney Studios arrives as the original live action remake, which launched in theaters about a month ago, approaches $1 billion in sales worldwide. The live action movie features local talent, including Hawaiʻi Island-born Maia Kealoha, as Lilo, and Kauai-born Sydney Agudong as Nani, her older sister.
Katie HellandJune 26, 2025