Hawaii entertainers' summer sounds turn up the heat
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
With summer in full swing, and the beach beckoning during the warm days, why not plan a couple of nighttime excursions or take a late-afternoon break just a few steps from your Waikiki hotels?
Summer is when Island music sizzles.
A few popular local musical events, staged after hours in Waikiki, are worth a visit:
The programs (see listings) feature popular Island singers and is a chance for visitors and residents to mingle in an informal setting, in some cases with food, beneath Island skies. Further, you may get a first-listen or look at a budding star or revel in the wizardry of an established Island favorite. Either way, you get to bring home the spirit of aloha.
For the Starbucks Wildest Show in Town event, go early to claim a spot. Bring a picnic supper, but alcoholic beverages are not permitted — after all, this is a family event, and kids will be plentiful. If you're lucky, you may be one of the random "winners" to get a guided tour of some of the zoo's displays before the concert begins. Bring mats or towels to sit on.
For the aquarium event, there will be food vendors. Space is limited, so call before going to secure tickets. The aquarium galleries will be open for viewing. Again, bring mats or towels to sit on.
The Generations shows are new this season, and the music is intended to lure visitors to the newly renovated site, which continues to be discovered by residents and visitors alike.
STARBUCKS WILDEST SHOW IN TOWN
Where: Honolulu Zoo lawn
When: 6-7 p.m. July 4; doors open 4:35 p.m. (after zoo closing at 4:30 p.m.)
Who: Holunape
What: "Humpday" family shows in the zoo environs; weekly 'ukulele giveaway
Tickets: $2 donation at the door
FYI: An 'ukulele will be given away each week
Coming up:
- July 11: Melveen Leed (drawing for a KoAloha 'ukulele)
- July 18: Manoa DNA (drawing for a KoAloha 'ukulele)
- July 25: Ohta-san with Nando Suan (drawing for a Pono 'ukulele)
- Aug. 1: Rolando Sanchez & Salsa Hawaii (drawing for a Kala 'ukulele)
- Aug. 8: Jimmy Borges & the Jazz All Stars (drawing for a Kala 'ukulele)
- Aug. 15: Starbucks 10th Anniversary Special (extended hours, from 5:15-7:15 p.m.) with Palani Vaughan, Jake Shimabukuro and Brother Noland (drawing for a Kamaka 'ukulele)
KE KANI O KE KAI
WHERE: WAIKIKI AQUARIUM LAWN
When: 7 p.m. July 10
Who: Brother Noland and Tony Conjugacion
What: Island music, with food by Yama's Fish Market
Tickets: $20 adults, $10 juniors (7-12), free for keiki 6 and younger; $15, $7 for Friends of Waikiki Aquarium members
FYI: Limited to 550 reservations; aquarium galleries open
Information: 923-9741, option 3; www.waquarium.org
Coming up:
- July 24: Cyril Pahinui and Dennis Kamakahi with food by Grand Cafe
- Aug. 7: Natalie Ai Kamau'u and Auntie Genoa Keawe, with food by Hula Grill Waikiki
MUSIC FOR THE GENERATIONS (NA MELE NO NA PUA)
Where: Grand Lanai, Embassy Suites, Waikiki Beach Walk
When: 4-5:30 p.m Saturday
Who: Hapa
What: Hawaiian music showcase
Admission: Free
FYI: Work in shopping, dining before or after the show
Information: 921-2345
Coming up:
- July 28: Raiatea Helm
- Aug. 25: John Cruz
- Sept. 29: Auntie Genoa Keawe
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.