Star-studded Na Hoku event tonight

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

A video tribute by Melveen Leed, paying homage to the musical contributions of peers Moe Keale, Arthur Lyman, Loyal Garner, Dennis Pavao and Auntie Irmgard Aluli, will add a note of poignancy to tonight's 25th anniversary Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, broadcast from the Hawaii Ballroom of the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel.

The tradition of embracing the memories and legacies of performers who have died since the last awards night continues to add a note of solemnity to the annual event.

If you're going, or watching on TV from home, here's what else you should know and expect:

• The TV link: KFVE-TV (Channel 5) starts coverage at 7:30 p.m. (with a rebroadcast at 10:30 p.m. May 26).

• The envelope openers: The presenters reflect both the old and new guard of the Hawai'i Academy of Recording Arts. Look for Maunalua, O-shen, Kimo Kahoano, Teresa Bright, Melinda Caroll, Harry B. Soria Jr., Karen Keawehawai'i, Brother Noland, Tony Conjugacion, Palani Vaughan, Danny Couch, Brickwood Galuteria, Haunani Apoliona, Del Beazley, Ho'okena, The Honolulu Skylark, 'Ale'a, Marlene Sai, Kapono Beamer, Audy Kimura, Auntie Genoa Keawe, Jake Shimabukuro and Frank DeLima.

• The entertainers: Only previous multiple award winners, in the male, female and group categories, were tapped to sing. So expect Peter Moon and Martin Pahinui of the Peter Moon Band, Jay Larrin, Nohelani Cypriano, Kawai Cockett, Olomana, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Keali'i Reichel, Ku'uipo Kumukahi and The Brothers Cazimero. Plus Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett's Kuhai Halau O Kawaikapuokalani Pa 'Olapa Kahiko.

• The event: From 4:30 p.m., with dinner service and technical award announcements starting from 5:30 p.m. Dress will range from black-tie to tropical casual. Tickets, $95, include dinner, and are still available. Call 922-4422, ask for the Hoku desk.

Wayne Harada is a voting member of the Hawai'i Academy of Recording Arts.