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.

Bird calls, retro Waikīkī in spotlight at upcoming HSO concert

The modern exotica ensemble Waitiki 7 will perform at several venues, including with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra in a one-night performance at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall in June. The group will also give a special performance with the legendary Harold Chang — the original drummer and percussionist in the Martin Denny and Arthur Lyman groups that started the genre — in a cocktail lounge at Halekulani Hotel.

Katie HellandMay 29, 2026

Brandi-Ann Uyemura releases first book about Obon festival

In late March, the Kailua-based writer launched children’s book, “I am a Bon Dancer,” inspired by her own experiences with her grandfather attending Obon festivals in Hanapēpē. The author is hosting a couple of events open to the public at Kaimukī Library on May 31 and June 2, with more to be announced.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 29, 2026

'Memory Beads' premieres at Kumu Kahua Theatre

Memory, aging and identity are at the heart of this play from retired public school teacher Diane Aoki. A story that came out of a challenge at a festival for playwrights is now finding its way to the stage for the first time in its entirety at Kumu Kahua Theatre.

Katie HellandMay 29, 2026

Hawaiʻi Food and Wine Festival announces line-up

The festival features renowned chefs across three Islands this year. Learn about the 11 events the festival announced on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and Maui.

Katie HellandMay 27, 2026

Laughs, science and more: What to do on Oʻahu this weekend

Already dreaming of the weekend after three days off? Aloha State Daily can help you make plans for Friday, May 29, through Sunday, May 31. From a women in rap party in Waikīkī to stand-up comedy in Kapolei, there are lots of events happening this weekend on Oʻahu.

Katie HellandMay 27, 2026

New rodeo highlights Hawaiian cowboy heritage on Hawaiʻi Island

“Paniolo Legends Under the Lights” is produced by third-generation paniolo Aki Smith, owner of Paniolo Culture Co. Presented in partnership with 1832 Hawaiʻi Living Co. and Waikōloa Stables, the evening includes rodeo events in the historic arena, a meal from Chef Nakoa Pabre of Umekes, live music and time to talk story with cowboys.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 26, 2026

Windward Community College professor named Guggenheim Fellow

Kapulani Landgraf, a professor of art at Windward Community College was recently named a Guggenheim Fellow. She spoke with Aloha State Daily recently about her work.

Katie HellandMay 25, 2026

Flowers, volunteers needed ahead of Memorial Day

Girl Scouts Hawaiʻi is collecting flowers and ti leaves for lei to honor the more than 10,000 service members at the Hawaiʻi State Veteran’s Cemetery in Kāneʻohe. On Saturday, May 23, members of the public are invited to join them in creating lei.

Katie HellandMay 23, 2026

Backset drops new single “Up Late”

The ‘Āina Haina-based band Backset is releasing its first single from a six-song extended play this week. Aloha State Daily caught up with Gabriel Goes, who also performed on NBC’s “The Voice,” Hawaiian Council’s “Hawaiʻi to the World,” and more, about his inspiration for the new music and how to listen.

Katie HellandMay 22, 2026

Taimane, Los Lobos to headline Maui Music and Food Experience

Music and food are on the menu for the third annual Maui Music and Food Experience, which will host several days of performances in Kāʻanapali in August. The event’s headliners were announced this week. Proceeds of the two-day event will benefit Hua Momona Foundation, which is working to feed the community, help Lahaina rebuild and foster a youth music scene on Maui.

Katie HellandMay 20, 2026

What to do on Oʻahu for Memorial Day weekend

From sewing lei for service members to the Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi, there are lots of events happening on Oʻahu this weekend. Aloha State Daily rounded up some of the ceremonies and activities, so you can make plans.

Katie HellandMay 19, 2026

Exhibit on Robert Cazimero extends through next week

A special exhibit honoring the work of legendary musician and Kumu Hula Robert Cazimero has been extended due to popular demand. Catch it at Gallery ‘Iolani at Windward Community College.