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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 10:24 a.m., Monday, July 14, 2008

'Waikiki Nei' opening postponed to July 22

By Wayne Harada

Construction delays have pushed back the formal launch of "Waikiki Nei," the multi-media high-tech production at the new Level 4 showroom, to July 22.

The show, and the multi-use complex on the fourth floor of the Royal Hawaiian Center, was to open tomorrow night.

However, the Level 4 nightclub and ultra lounge, with innovative nightlife elements, is expected to open this Saturday.

The week's delay of the show's premiere, mandated by the producers, will provide more time for cast and crew to polish the production which relies on evocative action and eye-filling visual imagery that tracks the evolution of Hawai'i from the era of the monarchy to the present time.

Manu Boyd, one of the Hawaiiana consultants, said more tweaking of some of the Island elements was necessary. "The show is avant garde, but the messaging needs to be clearer," he said.

"Waikiki Nei," which boasts Cirque du Soleil-inspired technology and elements, is being produced by the creators of "'Ulalena," the Maui extravaganza, and is being mounted with extensive collaboration with Kamehameha Schools' cultural advisory committee.

Information: 931-6100, www.waikikinei.com.

Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.