Get a dramatic blast of Polynesian culture at an affordable cost through April 30, as the Polynesian Cultural Center invites Hawai'i residents to enjoy "Ha: Breath of Life" for just $25 — that's half-price, people. Follow Mana on his journey into manhood during the 90-minute performance. A buffet dinner is included.

Guests in town interested in taking in a lū'au? This will save you some cash if you plan to accompany them. Or, maybe it's just a great excuse for a night out.

Just present local ID or proof of residency; the half-price offer is only available to Hawai'i residents. Reserved seats are included. Check in between 5 and 6 p.m.; www.habreathoflife.com; 293-3333.

— Kris Bordessa

Leslie Lang and Kris Bordessa, who blog at www.HonoluluOnTheCheap .com and www.BigIslandOnTheCheap .com, give tips on cheap or free family fun each Tuesday in Island Life. Watch for more bargain news at our blog, On the Cheap!

www.onthecheap.honadvblogs.com

SHARON JONES, DAP-KINGS SHINE

Sharon Jones has been through some serious relationship drama, if her latest disc with the Dap-Kings, "I Learned the Hard Way" (Daptone Records), is any indication.

The album takes us through the various phases of a love gone wrong. But she seems to wise up on the exceptional "Better Things," where she finally frees herself from negativity, simply saying, "I've got better things to do."

It's not just what Jones is singing about that keeps the listener engaged — it's Jones' heavy, soulful voice and no-nonsense attitude. And the eight-piece Dap-Kings bring the raw emotion of her voice to the next level.

Keeping it old school, Jones and the guys recorded their fourth disc on an eight-track tape machine. That method was also used when the Dap-Kings worked on Amy Winehouse's breakthrough album, "Back to Black," which snagged five Grammy Awards.

"I Learned the Hard Way" deserves a Grammy, too.

There probably isn't a song out right now that compares to "Better Things." The jam is smooth and rich, thanks to the diva's powerful range.

— Mesfin Fekadu, Associated Press

MAJOR RAGERS

Two notable reggae shows are coming up this week:

• Some great reggae bands are on the schedule Friday at Pipeline Caf for Reggae in the Spring, headlined by Seattle band Unified Culture. Local performers include B.E.T, Hi-Town, Rock Steady and All-Natro.

Reggae in the Spring, 7 p.m. Friday; 18 and over; Pipeline Caf , 805 Pohukaina St.; 589-1999. Tickets: $20 from www.groovetickets.com, or charge by phone at 1-877-714-7668.

• Island Fire, United DJs and Artist Groove Network present The MayJah RayJah, a reggae fest with headliner Katchafire from New Zealand, plus Rebel Souljahz, The Green, Kolohe Kai, Nesian N.I.N.E, Cease Fiyah, All Natro and Straight Up.

All ages are welcome, doors open at 4:30 p.m.

The MayJah RayJah, 5:30 p.m. Saturday; all ages; Waikīkī Shell; 527-5400. Tickets: $20-$40, group discount for 10 or more people is $15 each; tickets at Ticketmaster outlets, www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

— Tracy Chan, www.Honolulu.Metromix.com

SIMPLY GORGEOUS

How complicated can cosmetics really be? Very. It seems the more we read, the more confused we become. The business of being our most beautiful can be a real challenge, especially for today's extremely busy women. To the rescue comes Carmindy, the makeup artist for TLC's hit show "What Not to Wear."

In her book "Crazy Busy Beautiful" (HarperCollins), Carmindy opens her beauty treasure chest to share hundreds of beauty tips and secrets. Most of the tips are hers, of course, but some also come from her fans, friends and family. Chapters focus on everything from eyes and brows to cheeks and skin care.

It's a fun, light-hearted look at getting gorgeous — fast.

— Paula Rath

SALES & BARGAINS

• Jen Sarsuelo has a flair for business, opening popular boutiques such as Native Books and Beautiful Things (now Nā Mea Hawai'i), the Hawaii Doggie Bakery and Gift Shop and The Growing Nest. But this innovative local girl's true love is Cottage by the Sea. She's been designing and creating jewelry since she was 5, and her mother was a jewelry designer.

Her new store decor is East Coast loft meets shabby chic. You'll love the vintage furniture, romantic chandeliers and French glass doors.

During this economy, when many retailers are downsizing, Cottage by the Sea is expanding and celebrating with a huge storewide sale. Moving just a few doors down allows for more space to showcase their jewelry lines and clothing from Free People, C and C California, Velvet and more. Check out a room full of clothes at 50 percent off, plus new lines under $50; during this sale, you'll get an additional 10 percent off. Some sweet and flirty items we've spotted: a cr[0xe8]me floral tie-back $44 (regular price $49); a floral print with lace $46 (regular $52); a gray crochet tie-back $38 (regular $43); and, pictured below, a woven sleeveless top with ruffles $37 (regular $41).

Cottage by the Sea, Ward Warehouse; www.cottagehawaii.com, 591-9811.

• Jennifer Northrup of Silver Spoon Jewelry is flying in to Cottage by the Sea today, with hundreds of pieces, starting at $30 — save an additional 20 percent off all of her pieces. This line of jewelry, made from vintage spoons, has been a customer favorite for years. Growing up, Jennifer was fascinated by antiques. After she inherited her grandmother's heirloom silverware collection she was inspired to design a line of jewelry based on vintage patterns of the 1800s. Her creations include crosses, butterflies, dragonflies and English lace designs, in an assortment of necklaces, earrings, watches, bracelets and specialty items.

Check out the butterfly hanging pendant $56 (regular price $70), Elaine ring $30 (regular price $37) or Louise ring $30 (regular price $37). Each piece captures the feel of a bygone era; stunning and romantic in the evening worn with black lace or ruffles. Or, keep it edgy, not quite goth, but "Twilight"-esque with jeans and a plain white T.

Jennifer Northrup jewelry show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, Cottage by the Sea; www.silverspoonjewelry.com.

• 'Iolani School's annual fair takes on Italian flair with its When In Rome theme this year. From noon to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, the fair features a marketplace boutique. Designer labels such as Coach, Ann Taylor, Liz Claiborne and Guess will be featured for $20 or less. You'll find dresses, suits, pants and formals with the tags still on, as well as vintage hats, scarves and belts. Household treasures like fine china and crystal, too. Also, across from the fairgrounds at the Art Show, delight in beautiful beaded jewelry, koa boxes and other Hawai'i-made gifts.

When In Rome, 'Iolani School; 949-5355, www.iolanifair.org.

• Don't miss the Deuces consignment sale, continuing through Friday; you'll find steals from the hottest designers. Items include $30 Versace glasses, designer handbags, shoes, dresses, jewelry and more. If you've got the real deal — gently used designer handbags, jewelry, shoes and accessories that you want to sell — look them up.

Deuces, Ward Centre; 593-9055, www.mydeuces.com.

— Amanda Stevens