Posted on: Saturday, September 11, 2004

Show highlights gems of monarchy

Advertiser Staff

Gowns, holoku and heirloom jewels of Hawai'i's ali'i will be featured at "200 Years of Hawai'i: The Hawaiian Monarchy Collection" fashion show noon to 1 p.m. tomorrow at the Kahala Mall. Pre-show entertainment begins at 11 a.m. The show is free and open to the public.

"200 Years of Hawai'i: The Hawaiian Monarchy Collection" also includes a performance by The King's Royal Guard, The Kahalepuna Trio, Ka Leo O Laka I Ka Hikina O Ka La Halau Hula and a vocal performance of "I Ku'u Pua 'O Paoakalani," as well as lei-making and Hawaiian quilt-making demonstrations.

On display will be many of the authentic and refurbished gowns and holoku of Hawai'i's royalty, chieftains and ali'i. Among the highlights are garments from Queen Ka'ahumanu, Queen Kalama, High Chiefess Miriam Likelike, a gown worn at the coronation of King David Kalakaua, and a holoku of the Edwardian era.

The collection also includes heirloom jewelry and accessories.

The fashion show illustrates history, commencing with Queen Ka'ahumanu's reign and culminating with excerpts from the kingdom's last reigning monarch, Queen Lili'uokalani.

Portraying Hawai'i's monarchs are former Miss Hawai'is, ladies from the Hawaiian Civic Club and state beauty queens. The show also is interwoven with a script revealing many of the private royal memoirs, collected by noted historian Richard Goodwin.

For additional information, see www.kahalamallcenter.com or call 732-7736, ext. 13.