NTBG Goes Hawaiian for Moonlight & Music

Ho‘okena

The National Tropical Botanical Garden has announced its evening garden party will feature a Hawaiian theme, bringing the celebrated group Ho‘okena and solo artist Brother Noland to Kaua‘i for its Aug. 9 event, Moonlight & Music in the Garden.

A benefit for the nonprofit that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the event is scheduled to take advantage of the full moon shining down on its McBryde Garden in Lawa‘i Valley. Tickets are on sale on NTBG’s website.

Guests will be transported from Po‘ipu into the valley via a historic sugar cane train route, being treated along the way to views of Lawa‘i Bay and Allerton Garden. A torch lighting ceremony will kick off the festivities, followed by a “poi supper.” Wine and beer will be served.

Brother Noland

The Grammy-nominated and multiple Na Honu Hanohano award-winning group Ho‘okena have a long history of sharing their gift of island music, including performing at Carnegie Hall. Their appearance will also feature world-class ‘olapa hula (hula stylist) Nani Dudoit who brings elegance, beauty, and mana to Ho‘okena performances.

Brother Noland, himself recognized with two Na Honu awards, is said to have been the first artist to write and record in Hawai‘i that used Jamaican rhythms.

Also performing is Wailoa, a Kaua‘i group known for their range of stylings.

The evening offers a special appearance by Miss Hawai‘i 2014 Stephanie Steuri.

In addition to the music and food, the event will include a silent auction featuring a wide range of items and activity opportunities.

Nani Dudoit

Individual tickets are $150 per person and tables of 10 are offered at various levels. Purchases can be made at ntbg.org/moonlightmusic or by phone to 332-6500. Party-goers are encouraged to purchase early as a sell-out is anticipated.

Proceeds from the event will help support NTBG, a nonprofit, nongovernmental institution, in its mission to perpetuate the survival of plants, ecosytems, and cultural knowledge of tropical regions.

NTBG’s programs of discovery, scientific research, conservation, and education are funded primarily through donations and grants. The organization has its national headquarters on Kaua‘i, as well as three of its gardens and two of its preserves.