Tip-Off
Kamae's films featured in May event

Eddie Kamae, award-winning singer, ‘ukulele stylist, composer and filmmaker, will be joined by his group, the Sons of Hawai‘i, in a series of three concerts in May at the Honolulu Academy of Arts.

The Sons of Hawai‘i: from left, Joe Marshall, David Rogers, Gabby Pahinui and Eddie Kamae. A film about the group screens May 19. Advertiser library photo

The concerts will precede screenings of Kamae’s Hawaiian Legacy Series documentary films at the academy theater; a Hawaiian Ho‘ike (musical celebration) also will be held, linked to the opening on May 13 of the academy’s Luce Pavilion Complex, which is dedicated to the display of art about Hawai‘i.

The schedule:

May 18, 7 p.m.: "The Hawaiian Way: The Art and Tradition of Slack Key Music," a 70-minute film that celebrates ki ho‘alu and its role in the Hawaiian spirit and family tradition. Includes candid interviews and virtuoso performances.

May 19, 4 p.m.: "Luther Kahekili Makekau: One Kine Hawaiian Man," an hourlong documentary that pays tribute to the untamed spirit of a colorful, controversial and kolohe (roguish) Hawaiian man, who was part philosopher and part outlaw.

May 19, 7 p.m.: "Sons of Hawai‘i: A Sound, a Band, a Legend," an up-close-and-personal glimpse of the Sons of Hawai‘i then and now. Original members included Kamae, Gabby Pahinui, David "Feet" Rogers and Joe Marshall. Interviews are woven with jam sessions, painting a loving portrait of a cherished Island band.

The Hawaiian Ho‘ike is slated for May 19 and 20 and will include Hawaiian music, craft demonstrations, projects and a game for keiki, films and other activities.

Kamae and his wife-collaborator, Myrna, launched the Hawaiian Legacy Series in 1986, enabling the singer to venture into and excel in a new career in filmmaking. His rapport with the Island way and the Hawaiian community has given him access to people and artists whose stories he has documented.

The Sons in concert will feature Kamae and Ocean Kaowili, Braddah Smitty and Pekelo Cosma.

Tickets are free but limited to four per person. They will be available beginning May 9 at the academy box office.

Information: 532-8700.

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