Saturday Blast — 4th Annual `Aha Hula

Aikane Alapa`i, alaka`i — Halau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwai. Photo by Anne E. O’Malley

Head to Common Ground for the 4th annual Lu`au and Hula Kahiko Concert, a benefit for the Ka`ie`ie Foundation, a native Hawaiian non-profit organization. The program starts at noon, closes at 5 p.m.

Celebrate the legacy of Kumu Hula Kēhaulani Kekua and Hālau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwai in a rare performance of 30 ancient Hawaiian chants and classical dances.  It’s the first time since the inception of `Aha Hula in 2009 that the hālau will bring this unique concert event to their hometown ahupua`a of Kīlauea.

A lu`au and pre-concert festivities take place from noon to 2 p.m.

The Hula Kahiko Concert will follow, along with a special guest performance by Leokane Pryor and C.J. Helekahi, noted performers and recording artists of traditional leo ki`eki`e falsetto stylings. Pryor’s recording projects — Maunahele and Home Malanai and Helekahi’s Ka Mahina have received numerous accolades.

A fun and easy on-site hula workshop held during the event’s pre-concert festivities will give participants an opportunity to perform with Pryor and Helekahi, and as well, celebrate the auspicious Blue Moon weekend and full Māhealani moon that will rise later in the evening!

Persons who purchased tickets in advance will partake in a feast of Hawaiian lū`au and vegetarian fare, live Hawaiian music entertainment and impromptu hula by the host hālau and attending friends and guests. Fresh flower lei, arts and crafts, baked goods and refreshments,and a Keiki Pā`ani Zone will also be available.

General admission is available at this late date for $40 for persons 13 years of age and older; $35 for persons 12 years and younger. Lu`au is not included in the general admission, but may be purchased separately based on availability.