UH-Manoa, Kamehameha hoolaulea celebrate Hawaiian culture

“A Ho‘olaule‘a of Knowledges” provides attractions for youth and families who are enthusiasts of Hawaiian music and culture. The event is presented today by Hawai‘i Sea Grant’s Center for Integrated Science, Knowledge, and Culture in Andrews Amphitheater at the University of Hawaii-Manoa.

Keynote speaker Sir Timoti Karetu, a master of te reo Maori (the Maori language) who is recognized internationally for his knowledge of the language, will discuss the revitalization of Maori language and culture in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and its relevance to revitalization movements in Hawaii and around the world. Cultural issues are also the subject of a discussion with Tusi Avegalio, Kaliko Baker, Hoku Award winner Kalehua Krug and Kalei Nu‘uhiwa.

Puakea Nogelmeier, a Hawaiian language professor at UH-Manoa, describes the hoolaulea as a “unique event.”

“It is rare indeed to hear Sir Timoti Karetu in person; it is rarer to have local scholars be able to express how Sir Karetu’s thoughts are embodied here in Hawaii,” Nogelmeier said.

Mele and hula will also be represented, with contributions from Robert Cazimero, Aaron Sala, Snowbird Bento and Kupaoa.

Nogelmeier also praised the event’s setting in Andrews Amphitheater, adding that the outdoor setting “imbues the event with a certain nostalgia and newness at the same time.”

AT A GLANCE

>> What it’s about: Cultural education and contemporary Hawaiian music.

>> Amenities: Food will be available for purchase.

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“UA KUPU a Lau Ke Aloha” (“Inspired and Nourished by Love”) is the theme as Kamehameha Schools presents its annual fundraiser on the school’s flagship campus in Kapalama.

Hawaii radio personalities Lina Girl, “Mento Mele” Apana and Shannon Scott emcee a full day of entertainment that includes performances by the Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Performing Arts Ensembles and Na Hoku Hanohano Award winners Jerry Santos, Na Leo Pilimehana, Na Hoa, Napua Greig and Blayne Asing — some of them Kamehameha Schools grads, others not.

Food choices throughout the day include Kamehameha Schools’ “famous brownies” and plate lunches. Shopping options include a country store, lei, apparel, Molokai fish, Kauai kulolo (pudding made from baked or steamed grated taro and coconut cream), and Kona coffee and tea.

“This is the only time you can see all the performing arts ensembles in one place. They open the program,” event spokesperson Tracie Lopes said.

Lopes is a Kamehameha alumnus and her younger daughter is a member of the sophomore class. One of the traditions of the hoolaulea is that the annual event is a sophomore class project.

“From the time they’re freshmen they work on it,” Lopes said. “Sometimes they start thinking about it years before that. It is first and foremost the only fundraiser we do, and the money goes to enrichment programs and educational travel for the students.

“Kids can come and play all day, and kupuna can sit and enjoy the music. It really brings the community together.”

AT A GLANCE

>> What it’s about: A family-friendly, all-day celebration of Hawaiian music and culture.

>> Kid-pleaser aspects: Inflatables, rides, video games, a dunking booth, and game and craft booths. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs.