Moana Surfrider celebrates 100 years

The Sheraton Moana Surfrider, the grand dame of Waikiki hotels, will mark its 100th anniversary March 9 through 11 with a round of music, dance, food and film festivities.

The Sheraton Moana Surfrider will be holding a three-day 100th anniversary celebration March 9-11 at the hotel. Sheraton Moana Surfrider

The key event will be a Grand Anniversary Celebration March 9, beginning with a cocktail reception from 5 to 7 p.m. in the hotel’s Grand Salon, Grand Salon Terrace, W.C. Peacock and Diamond Lawn areas.

Those attending will be able to stroll through the rooms and nibble at appetizer stations, supplemented by cocktails.

Following the reception, at 7 p.m., a two-hour anniversary show will be staged in the Banyan Courtyard area, with the following performers:

Nina Keali‘iwahamana, a longtime soprano and a popular recording artist. She will be joined by Bill Kaiwa, as well as Noa and the Yim group. Kaiwa, another veteran Hawaiian entertainer, will perform anniversary events later in the year.

Joe Recca, baritone, who will be master of ceremonies. He currently appears in the

Tihati-produced "Creation — A Polynesian Odyssey" at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani’s revue in the ‘Ainahau Showroom.

Apaka, Keali‘iwahamana and Kaiwa regularly appeared on the "Hawai‘i Calls" radio show, which was based in its heyday at the Moana Hotel.

There will be hula by Halau Hula Olana, led by kumu hula Olana and Haward Ai, with music performed by a Hawaiian trio. The hulas will focus on the songs of Johnny Almeida, who used to perform at the Moana.

Other anniversary-related events:

Edgy Lee’s documentary, "Waikiki," premiere March 10. The film includes footage on the historic Moana, circa 1900s. Details will be announced.

An anniversary brunch, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 11 (the original opening date of the Moana), in the Grand Salon and Terrace.

A series of "An Evening With the Chef," April 21, June 16, Aug. 18, Oct. 20 and Dec. 15, in the Captain’s Room of the Ship’s Tavern restaurant. Executive chef Daniel Delbrel and guest chefs will oversee the intimate culinary evening, comprised of a four-course meal with wine pairings. Cost: $100.

Throughout the anniversary year, monthly special events will be staged, including Na Kupuna Night, "Hawai‘i in the Movies," and Moana Theme Parties. Details will be announced.

Information: 922-3111

[back to top]