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
Haunted experiences on Oʻahu
Ready to be scared? Aloha State Daily rounded up five options for haunted fun on Oʻahu at all different price points, from free to $38. Check out options in Kakaʻako, Waipahu and more.
Katie HellandOctober 09, 2025
Peacock launches new television series “Oʻahu Shores”
The show premieres Oct. 9 and focuses on the relationships between eight friends living on Oʻahu. Watch the trailer and learn more about the series.
Katie HellandOctober 09, 2025
Your guide to a faboolous Halloween on Oʻahu
What do a haunted mansion, a costume contest for surfers and pumpkin palooza have in common? The three events are happening on Oʻahu this month! Learn more about 20 fun activities related to pumpkins, Halloween and autumn planned for October.
Katie HellandOctober 08, 2025
Broadway producer and Hawaiian Council partner on new musical
The production shares the story of Hiʻiaka, who sets out on a journey to find the lover of her sister, Pele. The new production, which was created through a partnership between WitzEnd Productions and Hawaiian Council, will have its world premiere this week.
Katie HellandOctober 07, 2025
Filmmaker with Hawaiʻi roots shares story of Samoan writer Sia Figiel
Kimberlee Bassford, director of “Before the Moon Falls,” is showcasing her work at the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival. Her work is one of several nominated for the festival’s Made in Hawaiʻi Award for a feature film.
Katie HellandOctober 06, 2025
Meet two HIFF filmmakers nominated for Made in Hawaiʻi awards
Ricky-Thomas Serikawa, the director of “Back to the Loko,” and Alex Bocchieri, the director of “Dasher,” are showcasing their work at the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival. Their films are nominated for the festival’s Made in Hawaiʻi short film award.
Katie HellandOctober 04, 2025
Art contest for keiki open for submissions
Young artists have a chance to win cash prizes and showcase their artwork at Capitol Modern. Submissions opened Oct. 1. Winners of the regional competition get a chance to compete at the national level.
Katie HellandOctober 03, 2025
Ghost tour company ranks No. 1 in nation
Lopaka and Tanya Kapanui run this ghost tour company, which was just named the best in the nation by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The company has been named No. 1 on the list for three years in a row.
Katie HellandOctober 02, 2025
10 things to do this weekend: Friday, Oct. 3, to Sunday, Oct. 5
From the final shows of the musical “Come from Away” to the arrival of a second location of Paris Baguette, here are 10 things happening on Oʻahu this weekend.
Katie HellandOctober 01, 2025
Chinatown 808’s annual Mid-Autumn Festival is coming this Saturday
Chinatown 808 is celebrating harvest season on Oct. 4 with this all-day, family-friendly event, presented by Hawaiʻi National Bank Foundation. Attendees can look forward to a lantern parade, cultural performances, a variety of festival dishes and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaSeptember 30, 2025
Your guide to Shangri La’s new ticket system
The museum, which is a center of the Doris Duke Foundation, has a new ticketing system. Previously, money raised from tour tickets, after expenses were met, benefited the Honolulu Museum of Art. Now, ticket sales will benefit HoMA and Bishop Museum.
Katie HellandSeptember 30, 2025
HIFF announces films nominated for Made in Hawaiʻi awards
Want to watch a made in Hawaiʻi film? The Hawaiʻi International Film Festival will have a number of them in theaters as part of its competition for Made in Hawaiʻi awards for best short and feature film. The festival is also a qualifying event for the animated and live action short film category of the Academy Awards.
Katie HellandSeptember 26, 2025
Tūtū’s Place by Highway Inn is a new cafe at Bishop Museum
The new cafe is inspired by traditions passed down from kūpuna, and emphasizes comfort, hospitality and family recipes. You’ll find some of Highway Inn’s signature dishes — including that famous Hawaiian plate with kālua pig — along with cafe exclusives.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaSeptember 26, 2025
Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra offers free ocean-themed concert
Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with the University of Hawaiʻi on this free concert themed around the ocean that includes animations, storytelling and hula. As of Monday, the performance was sold out.
Katie HellandSeptember 26, 2025
Lopaka Kapanui brings ghost stories to Hawaiʻi Theatre
What do ghosts, storytellers and the symphony have in common? They will be gathering for a one-night-only show at Hawaiʻi Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 18. Storyteller Lopaka Kapanui shares a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming collaboration with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra.
Katie HellandSeptember 25, 2025
“Da Mayah” extends shows at Mānoa Valley Theatre
Playwright Lee Cataluna started writing after a trip to New York City, where she watched a show on Broadway. Now, her first play, “Da Mayah,” is back on stage in Honolulu and several of the original cast members from the 1998 production are in it. Learn about the moment when she was “strangely brave” and decided to write.
Katie HellandSeptember 24, 2025
Uni, Aloha Festivals, and live music: Friday, Sept. 26 through Sunday, Sept. 28
Looking for fun plans this weekend? From food recommendations to live music, Aloha State Daily has you covered. Here are a few ways you can spend Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Katie HellandSeptember 24, 2025
Tickets on sale for Hawaiʻi International Film Festival
The festival includes events on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi. This is the only Academy Awards-qualifying film festival in the state. Events start Oct. 15. Tickets are now on sale for individual movies or passes to all movie screenings.
Katie HellandSeptember 23, 2025
Three movies — and one tv series — to watch
Looking for something to watch? These movies feature scenes shot in Hawaiʻi or ties to the Islands and run in Consolidated Theatres through Sept. 25.
Katie HellandSeptember 19, 2025
Jason Momoa talks “Chief of War”
“This was my life’s goal to do this,” said the actor, who wrote the nine-part mini-series with Thomas Paʻa Sibbett for Apple TV+. Momoa talks about surprises and what it means to play the warrior Kaʻiana in a story about the unification of the Islands in this exclusive interview with Aloha State Daily.
Katie HellandSeptember 19, 2025
Watch “The Paper Bag Plan” at Consolidated Theatres
This independent film opens in Consolidated Theatres at Ward this week. The movie’s executive producer, Keʻalohi Lee Lucero, graduated from Kamehameha Schools and the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Her parents make a cameo in the film and still live on Lānaʻi.
Katie HellandSeptember 19, 2025
Screenwriter Thomas Paʻa Sibbett shares behind-the-scenes for “Chief of War”
Thomas Paʻa Sibbett grew up in Washington and focused on Hawaiian Studies at Brigham Young University – Hawaiʻi. Now, he is teaming up with Jason Momoa for an Apple TV+ mini-series about the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.
Katie HellandSeptember 18, 2025
Slack key guitar, barbecue and acai: What to do Friday, Sept. 19 to Sunday, Sept. 21
It’s a foodie weekend! Enjoy a barbecue that supports student scholarships at Windward Community College and a sweet deal on acai on Oʻahu's east side. Or catch live music and stage performances. Aloha State Daily did the research so you don’t have to. Read this list of 12 things to do this weekend and start planning fun.
Katie HellandSeptember 17, 2025
'No arrests' in Fiji Tribute concert, HPD says
Aloha State Daily reached out to several city departments, including the Honolulu Police Department and those overseeing the Tom Moffatt Waikīkī Shell and Kapi’olani Regional Park, which each hosted events for ticket holders.
Katie HellandSeptember 16, 2025
Catch Henry Kapono and other legends in September concerts
Henry Kapono will join well known and up-and-coming singers and musicians for the Home in the Islands Music Festival, hosted by the Henry Kapono Foundation. Among the events is the foundation’s inaugural In the Key of Aloha fundraiser gala, which features Kapono, Jerry Santos, Brother Noland, Kimié Miner, Tavana, and artists from the On the Rise program at the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach.
Katie HellandSeptember 12, 2025
Windward Community College’s Paniolo BBQ fundraiser celebrates culture and community
Supported by the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, the fundraising event is slated from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the college’s Great Lawn, and will feature live music from ʻAlewa and Hawaiʻi Loa, a mechanical bull, petting zoo, Texas Hold 'Em, roping competitions and more. It is free to attend though pre-orders for BBQ meals are encouraged to help raise money for student scholarships at the college.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 12, 2025
Punahou School graduate is in “Chief of War”
Brandon Finn, a graduate of Punahou School, explores complicated father and son relationships in his role as Prince Kūpule in the Apple TV+ mini-series, “Chief of War.” He shares his favorite scene to shoot and how he learned ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi for the role.
Katie HellandSeptember 12, 2025
Movie “Chaperone,” filmed in Hilo, hits Consolidated Theatres
This independent film, written and directed by Hawai’i Island-based Zoë Eisenberg, is an age-gap story. Set in Hilo, it explores the motives of a 29-year-old woman who decides she has nothing to lose in pursuing a relationship with a teenager.
Katie HellandSeptember 11, 2025
Three theater productions to see this week
Ready to watch live performances? These Oʻahu-based theater organizations are performing the first shows of their seasons. Get ready to be transported to Canada and Hilo, all while exploring universal themes from a seat by the stage.
Katie HellandSeptember 10, 2025
Warriors game, Fiji tribute, car show and more: Friday, Sept. 12 to Sunday, Sept. 14
Already thinking about what to do this Saturday and Sunday? With a homecoming game for the Warriors and a free one-night-only tribute to Fiji, there are plenty of events to choose from this weekend. Aloha State Daily has pulled together a quick list of ways to keep your entire ʻohana entertained.
Katie HellandSeptember 10, 2025
Megabon is back this weekend
The 3rd annual Megabon — created by JCI Honolulu and Hawaiʻi Todaiji — is coming Sept. 13 at Leeward Community College. Here’s what to expect.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaSeptember 09, 2025
Frank Orrall reflects on Poi Dog Pondering and his new cookbook
The Henry J. Kaiser High School graduate is the founder of Poi Dog Pondering. Now, he is also the author of his first cookbook.
Katie HellandSeptember 09, 2025
Catch this Gospel reggae band in Hawaiʻi for free this month
Christafari, a band of ‘musical missionaries’ who have performed across more than 85 nations since 1989, are set to play across three islands in September as part of its Hawaiian Island Tour: Sounds of Salvation. Learn more about the group, its members and mission, as well as where to watch them for free.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 08, 2025
Audition for Duke’s Ukes
Duke’s Waikīkī is looking for young musicians to perform in its annual ʻukulele competition. Interested musicians can audition now through Sept. 10. First-place winners of the competition take home an ʻukulele made from koa.
Katie HellandSeptember 06, 2025
Kumu Kahua Theatre debuts “Smother”
A drama that explores the complicated relationship between a mother and daughter has taken the stage at Kumu Kahua Theatre. The story was written by playwright Sara Ward, who works in the theater’s box office and wrote most of the story on site, while audiences enjoyed performances that were in session — and she had a few precious hours of free time.
Katie HellandSeptember 05, 2025
The Jabbawockeez donate and dance benefiting youth at Liliʻuokalani Center
The iconic white gloved and masked dance group made a pitstop in Hawaiʻi this week to perform at the new 97,000-square-foot building on Ward Avenue owned by Liliʻuokalani Trust. Aloha State Daily also took a tour of the eight-story facility, which includes a rooftop garden, fitness center and gym, commercial kitchen, collaborative and creative spaces and studios for dance, film production, broadcast media, and more, that serve Native Hawaiian youth ages 12 to 24.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 05, 2025
"Chief of War" actor Siua Ikaleʻo shares journey to playing Nahi
He didn’t plan to try out for Nahi, the little brother of Kaʻiana, played by Jason Momoa, in “Chief of War.” But the casting team for the Apple TV+ mini series asked actor Siua Ikaleʻo to audition for the role after casting him as a villain didn’t seem to be the right fit.
Katie HellandSeptember 04, 2025
Art, aloha and steel guitar: Friday, Sept. 5 – Sunday, Sept. 7
Enjoy live music, tour ʻIolani Palace and participate in a festival honoring the Kōlea, also known as the Pacific Golden Plover. Check out these events and more happening this weekend on Oʻahu.
Katie HellandSeptember 03, 2025
Naiwi Teruya is starting a music school in West Maui
The ʻukulele player used to borrow his siblings’ instruments as a child. Now, he is preparing to start the Maui Music Youth Program, which will share ʻukulele lessons with the next generation in West Maui.
Katie HellandAugust 30, 2025
Keʻalohi International Piano Competition announces winner
In the audience for a competition highlighting pianists from around the world were several special guests from Osaka, Japan. Learn more about the winner of the Keʻalohi International Piano Competition, and the exchange students from Japan who got to see the finalists perform.
Katie HellandAugust 29, 2025
“Sharing Aloha” in theaters Aug. 29
The documentary features a behind-the-scenes look at life for students who work at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Several of the featured students are part of PCC’s signature show, “Hā: Breath of Life.”
Katie HellandAugust 29, 2025
Actor Beulah Koale shares “Tinā” behind the scenes
Actor Beulah Koale has been in the television shows “Hawaiʻi Five-0,” “NCIS: Hawaiʻi,” and “Magnum P.I.” Recently, he played a pivotal role in the movie “Tinā.” Now, he is asking Dwayne Johnson to see that movie, which celebrates Samoan culture, mothers and community.
Katie HellandAugust 28, 2025
“Tinā” opens in Hawaiʻi theaters today, Aug. 28
Miki Magasiva, the writer and director of “Tinā,” shares a behind-the-scenes look at the movie, ahead of the film’s arrival to theaters on Oʻahu and Maui.
Katie HellandAugust 28, 2025
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