The Buzz

Advertiser Staff

• Arts smarts: Next at ARTafterDARK, the new series of monthly pau-hana events designed to attract youngish arts-and-culture lovers to the Honolulu Academy of Arts: "French Café," 5-9 p.m. April 30. Among the draws: wine tasting, French hors d'oeurves, entertainment, screening of the film "French Can Can" (1955). Admission is $7, free for museum members. Or, for $15, you get admission to ARTafterDARK and to the blockbuster exhibit "Japan & Paris: Impressionism, Postimpressionism and the Modern Era." Future ARTafterDARK themes are "Tokyo Nights," May 28; "Fellini Friday," June 25; "Young Collectors Night," July 30; "Summer Swing," Aug. 27; "Tiki Night," Sept. 24; "Dia de los Muertos," Oct. 29.

• Lions roar: Tickets go on sale tomorrow for the Hawaii World Invitational Lion Dance Championships, 6 p.m. May 14 and 7 p.m. May 15 at the Blaisdell Arena. Tickets are $35 and $50; and a limited number "red carpet" seats at $65. (877) 750-4400.

• Island sounds: The venerable Halekulani hotel, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the grand opening after its renovation, offers a concert series titled "The Artistry of Hawaiian Entertainment." Here's the lineup:

• April 11: Hiram Olsen Trio (Hiram Olsen, Casey Olsen and Dennis Keohokalole), singer Marlene Sai, dancers Beverly Noa and Kanoe Miller

• April 18: The Islanders (Alan Akaka, Kaipo Asing and Scotty Ho'oheno), singer Nina Keali'iwahamana, dancer Debbie Nakanelua

• April 25: Aloha Serenaders (Lem Aweau, Harold Hakuole and Helene Woodward), singer Emma Veary The series, 5-8:30 p.m. each night at House Without A Key, will be hosted by Kimo Kahoano. No cover charge.