Truth from Dare: Family first

BY DERIN DEREGO / Special to the Star-Advertiser

There have been so many interesting stories in the news recently that I’ve been glued to CNN. I usually watch Anderson Cooper daily, but lately I’ve had my television set blaring in the background almost nonstop.

Former Boston Celtics center Jason Collins recently came out as the first openly gay player in the National Basketball Association. Collins is currently a free agent after finishing the current season with the Washington Wizards. (Associated Press)

The first story I’ve been enthralled with is the coming out of NBA player Jason Collins. I’ve never really grasped the hoopla around coming out. I can’t wait for the day when one’s sexual preference is neither here nor there. Personally, I’d rather be going out than coming out, but that’s just me.

What was amazing about this story is how supportive his parents and twin brother were. That kind of unconditional love is a great thing for youths struggling with their identities to behold.

The other story I’ve been obsessed with is the three girls who were kidnapped one after another and recently found in Cleveland. As tragic as they are, these types of stories always amaze me. The fact that children can go missing and still be found 10 years later really illustrates that hope is a profound thing. The elation on their parents’ faces was so touching — and just in time for Mother’s Day.

Speaking of May’s biggest day, there are a bunch of options to celebrate the moms in your life. Whether it’s paying tribute to your own, or acknowledging a sibling, spouse, or even drag mother — a drag queen who teaches an aspiring queen the tricks of the trade — there’s something for everyone this Sunday.

If you’re in the mood for something off the beaten path, check out Cyclovia Hawaii’s “Hele On Kakaako” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. around Mother Waldren Park in Kaka’ako. The event, which aims to promote carless streets, or cyclovias, celebrates moms by providing a day of family fun featuring crafts, food, skateboard ramps, bmx demonstrations and more.

Duncan Osorio. (Courtesy NBC)

As part of the celebration, Taste at 667 Auahi St. will serve brunch prepared by “Top Chef” season one competitor Lee Anne Wong and her mother. There’ll be a plethora of breakfast and lunch items with adult pricing at $62 and a child’s brunch for $32.

I’m pretty traditional when it comes to family gatherings, so I tend to gravitate towards my usual haunts. We all know Michel’s at the Colony Surf has one of the best views in town, but not too many people know that they do an amazing brunch every first Sunday of the month. Luckily for you last minute planners, they’re opening up the doors a second Sunday in a row just for mom. With starters like hamachi sashimi and Manila clam chowder, and entrees like their signature Eggs Benedict or a mahi mahi and king salmon combination, you’re sure to score big points with mom for taking her to this sometimes forgotten favorite.

For the best of both worlds, try heading to the Hilton Waikiki Beach for their brunch buffet. They’ve lined up some great entertainment, including “The Voice” contestant Duncan Osorio, Kaleo Pilanca, James Mane and Andy Bumatai.

There’s no excuse not to make this Mother’s Day the best one yet. After all, if there’s anything we can learn from the headlines of late, it’s there’s no substitute for family!
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When he’s not out and about at the hottest parties and other events in Honolulu, Derin “Dare” Derego works as an account executive at a local radio station group. Reach him via email at derinderego@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter.

‘Ke Kani O Ke Kai’ announces lineup

HONOLULU PULSE STAFF / honolulupulse@staradvertiser.com

The Waikiki Aquarium has announced the 2013 lineup for its “Ke Kani O Ke Kai” summer concert series.

John Cruz. (Courtesy photo)

John Cruz will be the first featured artist at the aquarium on Thursday, June 13. Waikiki’s Kani Ka Pila Grille will be the featured food vendor.

Additional concerts are scheduled for June 27 (Halau I Ka Wekiu and KUmZ; food by Hog Island BBQ), July 11 (Mark Yamanaka and Darren Benitez; food by The Grove) and Aug. 8 (Makaha Sons; food by The Counter).

Gates at the Waikiki Aquarium, 2777 Kalakaua Ave., will open at 5:30 p.m. for the “Ke Kani O Ke Kai” concerts; performances start at 7 p.m. Aquarium galleries and exhibits will remain open throughout the evening.

Tickets are $45 general admission, $15 for keiki ages 7 to 12 years old and free for those 6 and younger (discounts available for Friends of Waikiki Aquarium members); special series pricing, which includes admission to all four concerts, is $185 general admission and $60 for keiki ($100/$35 for FOWA members).

Space is limited to the first 650 reservations for each concert; purchase tickets online at www.waquarium.org/KKOKK.

Social Encore: Designing for dollars

Students from Moanalua High School need Hawaii’s help to win a national sneaker design contest. (Courtesy photo)

BY JERMEL-LYNN QUILLOPO / Special to the Star-Advertiser

The “Vans Custom Culture Contest” is in it’s fourth year and was created to inspire thousands of high school students across the U.S. through art. In return of their creativity, the shoe company awards a winning school with a monetary award to help improve their art program, along with pride.

The first 1,500 high schools that registered were given four pairs Van’s shoes (106, Sk8-Hi, Slip On and Authentic). The schools had to design each pair of shoe with the following themes: Action sports (only boards and bike sports), music, art, and local flavor (inspired by community surroundings).

Vans narrowed down the selections and chose 50 high schools semi-finalists, including Oahu’s Moanalua High School. The MoHS team has 10 students (Sun Lee, Cayli Hirata, Troy Souza, Analise Austin, Dylan White, Jonathan Rosen, Jody Yafuso, Jordie Guasch, Erin Voss and Rayond Feliciano) and are lead by art teacher Jeff Fuijimoto. Fujimoto said he has helped students enter the contest since it started in 2010 because it gives his students opportunities to create lifetime memories while helping them become better artists.

The shoes entered in the competition by Moanalua High School students. (Courtesy photo)

“With this contest, art gives them a means and allows them to meet new people from across the nation, helps broaden their horizons,” said Fujimoto. “(It’s) something that some of them may not have the opportunity to do.”

Students say the hardest shoe they had to design was Vans’ Sk8-Hi shoe. However, they said it also allowed all of them to contribute to the design. Since Vans gave the contest mandatory themes, the students decided to tie all of the shoes together with an overall theme.

During their brainstorming session, all of them had a feeling of clarity when they decided to surround the shoes around the word “circus.”

“I think that when we all figured out that we were going to do circus, we all jumped on board because a circus theme is sort of universal,” said Jordie Guasch.

Since many students make art for themselves, the Vans contest challenged them to work efficiently as a team. They admitted that working in a team helped them become better communicators and helped them to manager their time better. Not only did they learn more about each other but they learned more about their capabilities as artists.

“I became a better painter because of this experience and because of my classmates,” said Sun Lee. “I gained confidence in painting and to create art for me.”

Fellow classmate Dylan White said throughout this process he learned art does not have reaffirmation from others in regards to his techniques, but to use art as a tool to express what he envisions.

The kids said participating in this competition will allow them to improve Moanalua’s High School art program, a program that helped them in more ways than one. The group also agreed when Analise Austin said future generations of kids at Moanalua will benefit from what they’ve been able to achieve.

Fujimoto said he has always taught his students to use art as a way of expression, to leave all of their drama and troubles and to use the art room as a place of serenity and relaxation. The students said with Fujimoto’s guidance they have learned life lessons.

“Mr. Fujimoto has taught me to never ignore detail, that we can’t leave any stone unturned…that there is a common and bigger goal,” said Guasch.

The top five finalists are determined by online voting and will be able to travel to New York City for a final event. The winning school will receive a $50,000 grand prize for their art program, while other schools will receive $4,000 worth of prizes. Vans’ partner, Journeys, will also give away a $10,000 prize to the school with the best locally designed shoe.

Another Vans’ partner national youth smoking prevention campaign, Truth, is offering a trip for four to New York along with $10,000 for their art program. Truth’s challenge is customize a skateboard deck with a design inspired by the ugly facts of smoking.

Moanalua needs that extra aloha to help them push through the second place spot within the Southwest region to make it to New York. Voting ends at 6 p.m. May 13. Vans only allows one vote per IP address (meaning one vote per internet connection). Click here to vote.
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Jermel-Lynn Quillopo is a multi-faceted, energetic individual with experience in both print and broadcast journalism. “Social Encore” aims to tell diverse stories about Hawaii’s food, events and people; share your tips with Jermel via email or follow her on Twitter.

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To Do: John Mayall, Mice Parade, more

MAY 17

“The Godfather of English Blues,” John Mayall, returns to the islands with fellow icon and former Savoy Brown guitarist Kim Simmonds as his opening act. 8 p.m. / Aloha Tower Marketplace / $35-$60 / 896-4845, lazarbearproductions.com

MAY 18-19

The eight annual Hawaii Book & Music Festival, a celebration of story and song, will feature more than 500 presenters and 150 events.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 18 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. May 19/ Frank F. Fasi Grounds, Honolulu Hale / free / 234-0404, hawaiibookandmusicfestival.org

MAY 25

New York indie/shoegaze band Mice Parade (an anagram for Adam Pierce, its leader and musicologist) brings dreamy sound to Hono­lulu. 9 p.m. / The Republik / $15 / 855-235-2867,flavorus.com

MAY 27

Relive the heyday of the big-band sound of the 1940s with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. 6 p.m. / Blaisdell Concert Hall / $69 & $99 / 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com

MAY 28

Kevin Barnes and his colorful band of Montreal return to Hono­lulu with their ambitious pop-psychedelia sound. 8 p.m. / The Republik / $25 & $35, flavorus.com

TICKER: 

The English Beat: Dave Wakefield brings the lively 2 Tone ska sound back to Hono­lulu at The Republik June 1; $25 & $35, flavorus.com.

Deftones: The wildly popular alternative metal band makes its anticipated appearance at The Republik June 2; $37.50 & $47.50, flavorus.com.

Out ‘N’ About: Pet Expo, Big Sean, more

The annual exposition for our animal companions will feature dog and cat shows, demonstrations, pet products and bird and fish clubs, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Free; Hawaii Foodbank donations welcome. Pets welcome, too (dogs must be leashed).

WEEKEND

Hawaii Pet Expo, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Free; Hawaii Foodbank donations welcome.

21st annual World Fireknife Championships, four-day event concludes with the senior division finals 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday (during intermission of “Ha: Breath of Life” show) and a Samoan Cultural High School Arts Festival 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Polynesian Cultural Center. $6-$10 admission for arts festival; “Ha: Breath of Life” tickets ($45 and up) required to see finals. 293-3333, polynesia.com

Ballet Hawaii spring showcase, student recitals 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 and 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Leeward Community College Theatre. $16. honoluluboxoffice.com

TODAY

Royal Hawaiian Band, noon-1 p.m., Iolani Palace. Free. 922-5331

Mystery Dinner Theatre: “An ‘Act’ of Murder!” three-act comedic crime thriller about old-Hollywood actors with three-course dinner and participation with your table to solve whodunit, 6:30 p.m., Dave & Buster’s. $48.13 (includes tax, tip); $43.32 for military and with groups of 15 or more. Reservations: 589-2215

“Two Small Pieces of Glass,” full-dome film about the telescope, its history and use in discoveries, 7 p.m., Hokulani Imaginarium, Windward Community College. $5-$7; free for kids under 4. aerospace.wcc.hawaii.edu, 235-7433

Castle High School Band Aloha Concert, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble perform Broadway, classic band, contemporary and other selections, with tribute to graduating seniors, 7 p.m., Ronald E. Bright Theatre, Castle High School. Free; donations accepted. castleband.org

Henry Kapono: “I’m Coming Home, A Salute to Our Troops,” Grammy- and Na Hoku-nominated singer-songwriter and friends (Kenny Endo, Kealoha, Au’s Shaolin Arts, others) in concert, part of the monthlong Mele Mei festivities, 7:30 p.m., Hawaii Theatre. $30-$45. 528-0506, hawaiitheatre.com

Think Fast, Mr. Aaron Presents improv comedy, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Loading Zone, 47 N. Hotel St. Free. mraaronpresents.com, loadingzonearts.com

SATURDAY

Rummage Sale, benefit for ministries, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Harris United Methodist Church, corner of Nuuanu Avenue and Vineyard Boulevard. 536-9602

Japanese Buddhist temples bus tour, a look at some of Hono­lulu’s most prominent temples (including Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, Jodo Mission of Hawaii and Li­liha Shingonji Shingon Mission) and embedded symbolic meanings with guides George and Willa Tanabe, 8:45-11:15 a.m. (check-in 8:30 a.m.), Japa­nese Cultural Center of Hawaii. $20-$25. 945-7633, jcch.com

Friends of Mililani Public Library book sale, large selection of used books, CDs and DVDs, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Mililani Public Library. Free. To volunteer: 626-7292.

Open Cockpit Day, a chance to sit in the cockpit of a World War II fighter or modern jet fighter, see vintage aircraft and meet aviation heroes, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor. Free with museum admission ($7-$20). pacificaviationmuseum.org, 441-1007

Hawaii Macintosh & Apple Users’ Society SpringFest, activities, workshops, expert talks and prize giveaways, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Capital One 360 Cafe, 1958 Kalakaua Ave. Free. Lunch pre-orders $9. hmaus.org

21st Annual Filipino Fiesta and Parade, a part of monthlong Flores de Mayo celebrations, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., along Kalakaua Avenue (from Fort DeRussy Park) and at Kapiolani Park Bandstand. Free. filcom.org, 680-0451

Creations of Hawaii craft fair, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Pearlridge Center, Downtown, lower level. 735-4510, ext. 2; bymela.vpweb.com

Second Saturday: “The Dimensions of Nature — 2D & 3D,” art activities with teaching artists Liz Train and Marcia Pasqua, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Hawai’i State Art Museum. Free. www.hawaii.gov/sfca, 586-9958

Youth on Stage: Haley Kagimoto & Nick Laa, noon, Hard Rock Cafe Hono­lulu. Eleven-year-old guitar rocker Michael Norfleet at 1:30 p.m. Free. All ages. 955-7383, fb.com/hardrockcafehonolulu

Goodwill/Hawaii Fashion Incubator call for talent, tryouts for models, stylists, hair and makeup artists and production assistants for the Sept. 19 Goodwill Goes GLAM! fashion show, 1-5 p.m., HiFi Co-op, Ward Warehouse, second floor above T&C. Register: higoodwill.org

2nd Saturdays Poetry Slam and Open Mic, Youth Speaks Hawaii pre­sents Team Katsu, soon to be Hawaii’s first representatives to the Southern Fried Poetry Slam in New Orleans, 3-5:30 p.m., The ARTS at Marks Garage. $1-$10 suggested donation. 782-7868, fb.com/youthspeakshawaii

Punahou Spring Chamber Music Recital, student chamber music groups perform music of Haydn, Mendelssohn, Dvorak, Borodin and Schumann, 4 p.m., Dillingham Hall, Punahou School. Free. 944-5829

Three Walls Music Festival: urban arts celebration with two stages and musicians including Taimane, Sing the Body, Tavana, Mano Kane, Discord & Rye, Erika Elona, 2do Bem, Candy Diaz, Sewa Fare, DJ Mr. Nick, DJ Ohtoro, DJ Zilla, hosts Kealoha and Lauren Makk; dance and visual projections; food alley including Taste Table and Whole Ox; open-air bar; live art, gallery and art activities; photo booth; massage tables; indoor speakeasy bar; 4 p.m., 331 Keawe St. and Auahi Street, Kakaako. Tickets: $10-$25, free for ages 12 and under. All ages for outdoor stage until midnight; 21+ indoor “Speakeasy” stage until 2 a.m. threewallsmusicfestival.com

Discover Kakaako: Ward Centers monthly food/fashion/music fair celebrates mothers with swag bags; Half-y Hour discounts and cocktail samples; music by Hoku Zuttermeister, the Mike Tulba Duo, David Asing and others; firemen fashion show at 7:50 p.m.; and food trucks and tents, beer garden, free photo booth and kids’ zone with bouncers and video game truck; 5-9 p.m., Ward Centers. Free. discoverkakaako.com

Saturday Night Mele: Chad Pule and Friends, new live-music series features contemporary Hawaiian act, 5-7 p.m., Waianae Mall. Free. 696-2690, fb.com/waianaemall

McDonald’s of Kapolei grand reopening, Ronald McDonald show and classic car display by Kapolei Lunch Bunch Cruisers 5:30-8 p.m. and food specials and prize giveaways with Big Koa and 93.1 FM Da Paina 11 p.m.-3:30 a.m., McDonald’s of Kapolei, 91-590 Farrington Highway. Free. On Twitter: @McDonaldsHawaii.

Concert on the Lawn, Mele Mei event featuring Duncan Kamakana (“The Voice”), John Cruz, Raiatea Helm, Maunalua, Taimane, fireworks, food and more, benefiting the Oahu Visitor Industry Charity Walk, 6-9 p.m., Hilton Hawaiian Village. $25-$50. hiltonhawaiianvillage.com/mele, 947-7955

“For the Joy of Singing,” Windward Choral Society spring concert featuring special guests Kaanohiwaianuenue Hula Studio and songs from around the world, 7 p.m., Windward United Church of Christ. Free. thewindwardchoralsociety.org, 261-9879

Concordia University Portland’s Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble, concert of sacred choir music, 7 p.m., Our Savior Lutheran Church, 98-1098 Moanalua Road, Aiea. Free. 488-3654

Hong Kong Night, encore HK-pop music concert featuring Hong Kong recording artists Lo Hoi Pang, Jenny Keung, Suzan Guterres and Hon Yeung, 7 p.m., Hawaii Theatre. $30-$120. hawaiitheatre.com, 528-0506; hkbah.org

Lehigh University Choral Arts concert, touring ensembles from Pennsylvania school perform a new commissioned choral work honoring President Barack Obama with the Punahou High School Chorale and Lutheran Church of Hono­lulu Choir, 7:30 p.m., St. Andrew’s Cathedral. thecathedralofstandrew.org

Jungle Rocket, Celtic-infused North Shore ensemble plays blues, New Orleans funk and bit of country in Summer 2013 Atherton Concert series, 7:30 p.m., Atherton Performing Arts Studio. $15-$30. 955-8821

“Legion of Boom,” featuring hip-hop artist Big Sean and local openers Tassho Pearce and Prie, 8 p.m., The Waterfront at Aloha Tower. $45 general admission, $80 VIP. flavorus.com

SUNDAY

Honolulu Ekiden 2013, team relay and individual marathon modeled after ancient Japa­nese method of communication, benefiting Hawaii charities, 5:30 a.m., Kapiolani Park (start and end). Entry: $40-$80 individual and $90-$210 teams. (Runners’ expo, packet pickup 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday at Waikiki Beach Marriott Hotel.) hnlekiden.com

Augie T Mother’s Day Show, brunch with entertainment by local funnyman, Sean Naauao and Ben & Maila, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Ala Moana Hotel. $58; kids ages 4-11 $32. 944-4333

Lehigh University Choral Arts Glee Club, men’s ensemble from Pennsylvania school performs at worship service, 10:30 a.m., Lutheran Church of Hono­lulu. 595-0233

Mele Apana’s Seventh Annual Mother’s Day Spectacular: “Legacy,” prime rib buffet lunch with entertainment by Kalai Stern, Kainani Kahaunaele, Kapena, Eric Lee, Kamakakehau Fernandez, Na Hoa and Ka Pa Hula o Kauanoe o Waahila, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Pacific Beach Hotel, Grand Ballroom. $70-$90. 292-5522

Hawaii Youth Symphony Aloha Concert Luncheon, lunch service followed by a summery mix of classical and popular music with special guests Kupaoa, 11:30 a.m.-2:45 p.m. (HYS country store from 10:30 a.m.), Hilton Hawaiian Village, Coral Ballroom. $50. Reservations: 941-9706

Moana Surfrider Mele Mei Mother’s Day Concert, featuring Na Hoku-winning artists Weldon Kekauoha and Mark Yamanaka, 12:15-1:55 p.m., Banyan Courtyard, Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa. Free for patrons of the Beach Bar or Veranda at the Beachhouse guests (Beachhouse brunch $40-$88). 921-4600, melemei.com

Manawa Kupono: Mailani Makainai’s Special Mother’s Day CD Release Concert, featuring the Na Hoku-winning songstress, hula by the Dalire ohana, Jerry Santos, Teresa Bright, Manu Boyd and other special guests, 1 and 6 p.m., Paliku Theatre. $25-$30; keiki under 5 free. 627-2942

Hawaii Polo Club game: China vs. Hawaii, with halftime entertainment, 2 p.m. (gates open 11 a.m. for picnicking, beach use), Hawaii Polo Club, Waia­lua. $10, $25 clubhouse. 226-0061, hawaii-polo.org

Honolulu Ekiden & Music Festival 2013 Sunset on the Beach Concert, featuring Japa­nese performers Kima­gu­ren (pop/reggae duo from Kana­gawa), Rip Slyme (hip hop group) and Aqua Timez (pop rock/alternative rock band), food booths and awards ceremony, 4 p.m., Kapiolani Beach site of Sunset on the Beach. Free. hnlekiden.com

Swing Dance Club Hawaii dance, free lesson followed by open dancing with music by Bert Burgess and snacks, 6:30-9:15 p.m., Palladium Ballroom, Ala Wai Golf Club. $8, $5 for members. swingdanceclubhawaii.org, 255-6095

Michael W. Smith, Grammy-winning Christian singer-songwriter in acoustic concert, 7 p.m., Blaisdell Concert Hall. $35-$70. ticketmaster.com, 800-745-3000

MONDAY

Keiki clown show, with Bungie the Clown, 10:30-11 a.m., Town Center of Mililani. Free. 625-0108, towncenter­ofmililani.com

Tresemble concert, Chamber Music Hawaii performs works by Johan Backofen, Albert Roussel, Jean Francaix, Ottorino Respighi and Maurice Ravel, 7:30 p.m., Paliku Theatre. $20-$25. 489-5038, chambermusichawaii.com

TUESDAY

Connect!Kids Tuesday: Candy Art Hawaii, Japa­nese candy-sculpting activity, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Pearlridge Center, Uptown Center Court. Free. 488-0981, pearlridgeonline.com

“In Celebration of Music,” Windward Choral Society concert also featuring Lehigh University Choral Arts of Bethlehem, Pa., 7 p.m., Kailua United Methodist Church. Free. thewindwardchoralsociety.org

Halekulani Presents the New Generation: Natalie Ai Kamauu, Na Hoku-winning artist sings in free Mele Mei performance, 7-9 p.m., House Without a Key, Halekulani Hotel. 593-9424, melemei.com

WEDNESDAY

Highlands Intermediate School chorus and jazz band, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Pearlridge Center, Uptown. Free. 488-0981

THURSDAY

John Mayall, British blues legend in concert with Kim Simmonds, 7:30 p.m., Maui Arts & Cultural Center. $35-$55. 242-7469. (Also May 17 at Aloha Tower, May 18 at Hono­kaa People’s Theater and May 19 at Kauai Community College. See lazarbear.com or call 896-4845.)

Pandit Nayan Ghosh and Ishaan Ghosh, Indian sitar and tabla virtuoso and his tabla prodigy son in concert, 7:30 p.m., Doris Duke Theatre. $25-$30. honolulumuseum.org, 532-6097

Lanai & Augie’s Comedy Laugh Shack, local comic duo live, 8 p.m., Imua Lounge. $12. augiet.com, 479-0576

Ongoing Shows

“Aloha Live,” new outdoor Polynesian “cirque” luau show featuring aerialists, haka by Vili the Warrior and Polynesian song and dance; with pre-show magic, comedy and dance; 5 p.m. seating, 6 p.m. dinner, 6:45 p.m. show Fridays, Saturdays and Wednesdays, Queen Kapiolani Hotel pool deck. $49-$89. 931-3328, alohaliveshow.com

“Benise’s Nights of Fire — Hawaii,” Spanish guitar artist and his international dance troupe debut Hawaii version of Emmy Award-winning show, 9:30 p.m. daily, Magic of Polynesia Showroom, Holiday Inn Waikiki Beachcomber Resort. $41.25-$97. gioboxoffice.com, 971-4321, 702-650-7677

“Creation: A Polynesian Journey,” dinner and cocktail show about the birth of the islands, including the first woman, with Polynesian song, dance and fireknives, 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. cocktails, 7:15 p.m. show, daily except Mondays and Wednesdays. $39-$65 cocktail package; $66-$160 dinner packages. 931-4660, creationshow.com

“‘Aha’aina: A Royal Hawaiian Lu’au,” oceanfront vignette dinner show paying homage to the site’s royal and sacred heritage with a dramatic performance, hula, song and Hawaiian artisanry, 5:30-9 p.m. every Monday, Royal Hawaiian Hotel. $89-$185. 921-4600, royal-hawaiian.com

Comedy Polynesia, with “Hawaiian King of Comedy” Bo Irvine and Michael “Mr. Diamond Head” Staats, 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays, $25-$35; and Sharkey’s Comedy Club, with Hawaii and national comics, 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays, Hawaii Comedy Theater, Sheraton Princess Kaiu­lani Hotel. $15-$25. 531-4242, hawaiicomedytheater.com

“Ha: Breath of Life,” a Pacific isle tale of birth and death, love and family, triumph and tragedy, with Polynesian dance, music and fireknives, 7:30-9 p.m. daily, Polynesian Cultural Center, Laie. $25-$50. Reservations: 293-3333, polynesia.com

Legends in Concert Waikiki: “Rock-A-Hula,” live concert experience featuring Elvis Pres­ley tribute, hula and rotating cast of 80 superstar personas including Michael Jackson, Steven Tyler and Madonna impersonators, 8 p.m. nightly except Mondays, Royal Hawaiian Center, fourth floor. $59-$180. 629-7469, legendswaikiki.com

“The Legends of Kualoa,” dinner show depicting Hawaiian legends of the area with music, chanting and hula kahiko, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Kualoa. $29-$49. 237-7321, kualoa.com/tours

“Magic in Paradise,” buffet dinner show featuring mystery, fantasy, comedy and illusions with magician Mark Allen Mauricio, 6 p.m. every Wednesday, Banyan Tree Showroom, Hale Koa Hotel. $6.95-$35.95. 955-0555, halekoa.com

“Magic of Polynesia,” illusionist John Hiro­kawa with dance and fire dance, 7 p.m. dinner show, 8 p.m. show, daily, Magic of Polynesia Showroom, Holiday Inn Waikiki Beachcomber Resort. $30-$139. 971-4321, magicofpolynesia.com

Society of Seven Latest Version: “HOT! HOT! HOT!” 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, Outrigger Waikiki. $35-$45. Reservations: 923-7469

Island Mele: The Dukes of Surf

REVIEW BY JOHN BERGER / jberger@staradvertiser.com

‘The Dukes of Surf’

The Dukes of Surf (Coconut Groove Music)

If some of the top Brill Building pop song writer teams of the late 1950′s and early 1960′s — Goffin-King, Greenwich-Mann, Mann-Weil, Sedaka-Greenfield and Pomus-Shuman, to name five — had been tracking what Dick Dale and the Beach Boys were doing in southern California, and if the Beach Boys and Jan and Dean had spent more time in Hawaii than they did, they all might have come together to create a group like the Dukes of Surf. The trio — JP, Lee and Fish — blend key elements of both the Brill Building and SoCal traditions. They do justice to both of them.

The Dukes do nicely at Beach Boys-style harmonizing, and, as their name indicates, many of their songs are about surfing. Several are about surfing and romance in Hawaii. Take “Island Girls,” for example: “Hawaii, Hawaii, it’s Heaven on earth/Girls in bikinis that know how to surf” the Dukes sing in loving tribute to “the grooviest girls in the world.”

Dukes’ song writers JP and Lee evoke memories of Brill Building pop hits with some of the melodies and chord progressions. The aptly titled “Doo-Bee-Doo” echoes the East Coast doo wop tradition in catchy foot-tapping style. Other songs build on the Brill Building genre of songs about teen life — for the Dukes that’s surfing after school, walking on the beach, and the plight of a guy whose girlfriend’s parents don’t approve of his surfing lifestyle.

The SoCal tradition of car songs, another important genre in the Beach Boys’ heyday, is covered when the Dukes sing of “cruisin’ Waikiki with the windows down” in their “Heavy Duty Chevy.”

The trio slips into a soothing romantic style reminiscent of “The Warmth of the Sun” and “In My Room” with other selections.

Ever wonder how Kyu Sakamoto’s 1963 US chart-topper, “Sukiyaki,” would have sounded if the Beach Boys had recorded it? The Dukes close the album with their arrangement.

“The Dukes of Surf” is available at www.TheDukesofSurf.com.
———
John Berger has been a mainstay in the local entertainment scene for more than 40 years. Contact him via email at jberger@staradvertiser.com.

Quick Bites: Mother’s Day 2013

COMPILED BY NINA WU / nwu@staradvertiser.com

Petit filet for mom: Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is offering a three-course set menu for Mother’s Day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.

The highlight is executive chef James Dono­hue’s Petit Filet au Poivre with garlic mashed potatoes. For appetizers, choose from jumbo lump crab cake, sizzling bacon Caesar salad or a Beverly Hills chopped salad.

Dessert is Junior’s cheesecake from New York with a jumbo strawberry.

The meal costs $59.95. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is at the Royal Hawaiian Center, Building C, Level 3. Call 922-3600 or go to www.opentable.com.

Mother-daughter team: Chef Lee Anne Wong is preparing an “Everything I Learned I Learned from My Mother” brunch at Taste from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

Both Wong and her mother will prepare the brunch, which offers an appetizer plate of Hawaii fruits with macadamia yogurt, house-made granola, smoked local fish and black-pepper cream cheese on a minibagel, plus crispy paiai with goat cheese and wildflower honey.

The main course is a choice of crispy pork belly or roasted local fish with sides.

Dessert is a crispy coconut French toast with bananas and Koloa rum sauce. A keiki menu is also available.

Cost for the meal at Taste, 667 Auahi St. in Kakaako, is $62 per person ($35 for keiki 11 and under). Reservations available at mamawongbrunch.eventbrite.com.

Mavro for moms: Chef Mavro is offering a special dessert — “lemongrass name­laka” (Japa­nese term for creamy texture) — during Mother’s Day weekend from today to Sunday.

The four-course menu includes a special asparagus dish, steamed day boat catch with ratatouille and Berkshire pork loin, along with the dessert.

The four-course menu is $85, with more options available.

Chef Mavro is at 1969 S. King St. in Moiliili; 944-4714, www.chefmavro.com.

Brunch and dinner: Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas is offering both a Mother’s Day brunch and dinner Sunday.

Brunch, offered from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., includes an appetizer of chilled seafood salad and main course choice of sautéed monchong ($39), pan-roasted shrimp ($37) or brie cheese-torched Kua­hiwi Ranch beef meatloaf ($36). Dessert is a caramel panna cotta with fresh fruit.

Dinner from 5:30 to 9 p.m. is more elaborate — a four-course menu starting with chilled lobster salad, followed by steamed New Zealand tai snapper, then choices of sous vide New York steak with teriyaki butter sauce ($58), sautéed monchong with bubu­arare, takana rice and sai­kyo miso kim chee sauce ($56), pan-roasted shrimp with sansho peppercorn-scallion ragout, shrimp beurre blanc and fettuccine ($58), or pan-roasted mahimahi with tomato ogo lomi, homemade fuku­jin­suke and takuan with cauliflower bacon sauce ($55). Dessert is a duo of brulées.

Hiroshi is at Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., www.hiroshihawaii.com. For reservations, call 533-4476 or email svilliers@dkrestaurants.com.

Pau Hana Patrol: Catch up with Ryan’s

Desmond Thain serves one of the happy-hour menu items at Ryan’s Grill: nachos with spicy black bean relish and topped with pepper jack and cheddar cheeses, avocado sour cream and jalapeños. Photo by Bruce Asato / basato@staradvertiser.com

REVIEW BY JASON GENEGABUS / jason@staradvertiser.com

Heading to Ryan’s Grill for happy hour is like catching up with an old friend. It’s comfortable and familiar, an easily recognizable destination for generations of Hawaii residents looking for affordable food and drinks after a long day at work.

When the restaurant opened as Ryan’s Parkplace Bar & Grill in May 1983, it was geared toward customers looking for a “straightforward and honest” experience, according to a Hono­lulu Advertiser report at the time. Emphasis was placed on food that was “healthful” and “fresh,” with enough variety to keep people coming back.

On the happy-hour menu at Ryan’s Grill at Ward Centre is a Hot Crab and Artichoke Dip, served with house-made focaccia.

Three decades later the name may have changed, but the goals remain the same. Ryan’s still offers a diverse lunch and dinner menu along with extensive pupu and happy-hour offerings.

A spacious lounge area, which includes outdoor seating and a dedicated bar, provides enough room to bring the entire office out for pau hana.

From 4 to 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. to closing (generally about midnight), Ryan’s serves up discounted plates of items including Jamaican Jerk Fries ($5.95), Pan-Seared Potstickers ($6.95), Buffalo Chicken Fingers ($7.95) and the restaurant’s famous Hot Crab and Artichoke Dip ($8.95). The money you’ll save eating off the happy-hour menu is significant — most items cost $2 to $5 more during lunch and dinner.

Like standard beer fare like Bud Light, Miller Lite, Blue Moon and Kona Longboard Lager? Ryan’s will pour a pint of those brews for $4 during happy hour, with more than 15 other drafts and 10 bottled beers also available for a few bucks more.

In celebration of Ryan’s 30th anniversary this month, the restaurant will host an ’80s theme party with music by local band Elephant on Wednesday; happy-hour prices will be in effect all day. The featured food special is an 8-ounce rib-eye steak and coconut shrimp plate for $19.83. And anyone born in 1983 with valid ID will score a free T-shirt.

While helping celebrate the restaurant’s 30th anniversary is reason enough to pay a visit to Ryan’s, no gimmicks are necessary to keep going back. It’s one of those back-pocket picks you can use when heading out for drinks with a group of friends who can’t make up their minds, or when you’re looking for an unassuming place to meet for a first date. As Kakaako continues to grow and development changes the face of the community, it’s good to know there’s a place like Ryan’s to connect the neighborhood with its past.
———
Jason Genegabus is Entertainment Editor/Online at the Star-Advertiser.

Pulse Top 5: Nas, Cinco De Mayo, more

BY JASON GENEGABUS / jason@staradvertiser.com

Joah Buley, Special to the Star-Advertiser

NAS AT THE REPUBLIK 1. Hip-hop superstar Nas returned to Honolulu for the first of a pair of concerts at The Republik on May 3. Local rapper Prie opened both shows; see honolulupulse.com/?p=102683 for a review of the May 3 concert and honolulupulse.com/?p=102726 for photos.

PICS: CINCO DE MAYO HISPANIC STREET FEST 2. Thousands of people returned to Chinatown a day after the monthly First Friday Art Walk for the 2013 Cinco de Mayo Hispanic Street Festival on Saturday. For more pictures from the block party, visit honolulupulse.com/?p=102754.

PICS: EAT THE STREET: KAPOLEI 3. Popular food truck festival Eat the Street returned to Kapolei for a May Day-themed afternoon of food at Kapolei High School on Saturday. The event featured the Kapolei High School May Day Court and entertainment by Halau O Kauleulaua’e, YET Boys & Girls Club Nanakuli, Barbers Point Elementary School and Seagull Preschool. Go to honolulupulse.com/?p=102742 for more.

PICS: CINCO DE MAYO AT WAHOO’S KAHALA 4. The Pulse and Wahoo’s Fish Tacos partnered on a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Wahoo’s Kahala on Sunday, with a Pulse photo wall and live entertainment by Johnny Helm, Matty McIntire and Melanie and the Meltones. For more photos, see honolulupulse.com/?p=102772.

Kat Wade, Special to the Star-Advertiser

PICS: TOGA PARTY AT KAILUA TOWN PUB 5. Kailua Town Pub & Grill hosted a toga party with entertainment by Master of OZ on Saturday. The band returns to the bar on May 18 to headline an Armed Forces Day Fundraiser Block Party. Visit honolulupulse.com/?p=102755 for a photo gallery from the toga party.

Photo credits: 1 and 4. Joah Buley, Special to the Star-Advertiser; 2 and 5. Kat Wade, Special to the Star-Advertiser; 3. James Garrett, Special to the Star-Advertiser.

James Garrett, Special to the Star-Advertiser

Joah Buley, Special to the Star-Advertiser

Kat Wade, Special to the Star-Advertiser

At the Movies: ‘Gatsby,’ ‘Peeples,’ more

Carey Mulligan stars as Daisy Buchanan and Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby in the drama “The Great Gatsby.” Photo courtesy Warner Bros.

OPENS TODAY

‘The Great Gatsby’ 

A Midwestern war veteran finds himself drawn to the past and lifestyle of his millionaire neighbor. Director Baz Luhrmann is the latest to adapt F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic book, and the big-budget movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton. (PG-13, 143 minutes)

‘Peeples’  Sparks fly when a man crashes an annual family reunion in the Hamptons to ask for their precious daughter’s hand in marriage. Craig Robinson, Kerry Washington and David Alan Grier star in this comedy. (PG-13, 95 minutes)

LIMITED RELEASE

‘Aftershock’ 

In Chile a group of travelers who are in an underground nightclub when a massive earthquake hits quickly learn that reaching the surface is just the beginning of their nightmare. At Kapolei 16 (R, 90 minutes)

‘In the House’ 

A teenage boy insinuates himself into the house of a fellow student from his literature class and writes about it in essays for his French teacher. At Kahala 8 (R, 105 minutes)

‘Renoir’ 

A lushly atmospheric drama that explores a pivotal time in the lives of master painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir and his war-wounded son, Jean. At Kahala 8 (R, 111 minutes)

NOW PLAYING

’42′ 1/2

The life story of Jackie Robinson, the first black Major League Baseball player, and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 under the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey. As with Robinson himself, the movie is a class act, though not always an engaging one. It’s such a familiar story that any faithful film biography almost inevitably will turn out predictable, even a bit routine. But it does feature an earnest performance by Chadwick Boseman in the title role and enjoyably self-effacing turn by Harrison Ford as Rickey. (David Germain, Associated Press) (PG-13, 88 minutes)

’56 Up’ 

British director Michael Apted continues his fascinating series of documentaries that revisits the same group of people that he’s spoken with since they were children, interviewing them every seven years to find out what changes over time have been made in their lives. Apted has always been the interviewer throughout the series, and that continuity has been invaluable in encouraging from-the-heart candor from the participants. (Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times) (NR, 144 minutes)

‘The Big Wedding’ 1/2

Robert De Niro and Diane Keaton lead a cast starring in this romantic comedy about a long-divorced couple forced to play happy for the sake of their adopted son’s wedding after his ultraconservative biological mother unexpectedly decides to fly halfway across the world to attend. This is the latest limp comedy about seniors behaving badly, and it doesn’t have a single moment of recognizable humanity. (Joe Williams, St. Louis Post-Dispatch) (R, 90 minutes)

‘Blancanieves’ 

A twist on the Snow White fairy tale set in 1920s Seville and centered on a female bullfighter. The film deftly blends cinematic antiquarianism, period atmosphere and primal emotions, but it never quite achieves the uncanny, haunting intensity of the silent films it so studiously and lovingly mimics. (A.O. Scott, New York Times) (PG-13, 104 minutes)

‘The Company You Keep’ 1/2

A former Weather Underground activist goes on the run from a journalist who has discovered his identity. Actor-director Robert Redford has made an involving but often predictable drama set in the present but dealing with volatile events that occurred in a nation roiled by the Vietnam War. What gets revealed should rattle but it doesn’t. (Lisa Kennedy, Denver Post) (R, 121 minutes)

‘The Croods’ 1/2

The world’s first prehistoric family goes on a road trip to an uncharted and fantastical world. This colorfully vibrant feature from DreamWorks Animation is a familiar mix of generational clashes, coming-of-age milestones and generally relatable laughs. (Christy Lemire, Associated Press) (PG, 98 minutes)

‘A Deeper Shade of Blue’ 

Jack McCoy’s documentary about the history of surfing. McCoy calls this the pinnacle of his 40-year career as a surf cinematographer, as he follows the surfers overhead, thanks to a Seabob underwater scooter. (R, 90 minutes)

‘Disconnect’ 1/2

Jason Bateman and Hope Davis star in a drama about Internet-infused alienation in an anonymous New York suburb. The film is a heavy-handed cautionary tale. Strong performances notwithstanding, the movie never connects. (Colin Covert, Minneapolis Star Tribune) (R, 115 minutes)

‘From Up on Poppy Hill’ 

Goro Miyazaki works from a screenplay from his father, Hayao, to tell the animated story about a group of Yokohama teens who look to save their school’s clubhouse from the wrecking ball in preparations for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. This is a sweet and honestly sentimental film. The fantastical element present in the senior Miyazaki’s films is not a factor here, but the father’s ability to transport us to other worlds is very much echoed in the son’s work. (Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times) (PG, 91 minutes)

‘G.I. Joe: Retaliation’ 

The battalion of soldiers not only fight its mortal enemy Cobra, but is forced to contend with threats from within the government that jeopardize its very existence. Dwayne Johnson, Channing Tatum and Bruce Willis star in what is basically a live-action version of an ’80s cartoon that was designed to sell toys. Things go boom, and the one hour and 50 minutes zip by like, oh, two hours and 10. (Roger Moore, McClatchy Newspapers) (PG-13, 110 minutes)

‘Graceland’ 

When a kidnapping goes wrong, a desperate father risks everything to save his daughter from the men who hold her captive. Ron Morales directs this breakout Filipino noirish thriller that may devastate or puzzle you, but it is unlikely to leave you unmoved. At times melodramatic, the film’s unexpected twists, somber cinematography and gripping story line are worth your time. (Elizabeth Kieszkowski, Star-Advertiser) (NR, 84 minutes)

‘Iron Man 3′ 1/2

When Tony Stark’s world is torn apart by a formidable terrorist called the Mandarin, he starts an odyssey of rebuilding and retribution. Meticulously crafted to be a box-office juggernaut, the movie rises above its naked ambitions thanks to Robert Downey Jr.’s sly charm in the title role and Ben Kingsley’s too-short and ultimately hilarious turn as the villain. (Cary Darling, Fort Worth Star-Telegram) (PG-13, 130 minutes)

‘It Takes a Man and a Woman’ The third and final installment of the popular “A Very Special Love” Filipino romantic comedy series, with the return of stars Sarah Geronimo and John Lloyd Cruz. (NR, 108 minutes)

‘Mud’ 

Two teenage boys encounter a fugitive (Matthew McConaughey) and form a pact to help him evade the bounty hunters on his trail and to reunite him with his true love. One of the best films of the year, it has the feel of a novel that’s rooted deep in American soil. McConaughey brings depth to a character who at first seems merely brashly macho, and Reese Witherspoon is nearly unrecognizable as the fugitive’s troubled girlfriend who has made many bad decisions in her life. (Cary Darling, Fort Worth Star-Telegram) (PG-13, 130 minutes)

‘Na Ali’i of Comedy: Da Movie’

The documentary follows longtime local comic favorites Andy Bumatai, Mel Cabang, Frank De Lima, Ed Kaahea and Augie Tulba as they embark on a tour around the state. (NR, 144 minutes)

‘Oblivion’ 

Tom Cruise stars as a veteran assigned to extract Earth’s remaining resources who begins to question what he knows about his mission and himself. Stitched together from spare bits of other, often better films, this is the Frankenstein’s monster of science-fiction movies. It stumbles awkwardly in story and plot, shuffling toward the predictable explosions and fireballs of the final act. Yet, despite all that, this is surprisingly well acted and so beautiful to look at that what at first seems like a cinematic monster is actually a handsomely compelling creation. (Cary Darling, Fort Worth Star-Telegram) (PG-13, 126 minutes)

‘Olympus Has Fallen’ 

Gerard Butler plays a disgraced former presidential guard who finds himself trapped inside the White House in the wake of a terrorist attack. This is basically “Die Hard in the White House” with a tin-eared script, just another movie manifestation of a first-person shooter video game. (Roger Moore, McClatchy Newspapers) (R, 120 minutes)

‘Pain & Gain’ 1/2

Three bodybuilders in Florida get caught up in an extortion ring and a kidnapping scheme that goes terribly wrong. Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson and Anthony Mackie star in the new movie from Michael Bay that uses all the shock and awe and noise and bluster one expects from the director. It’s a two-hour onslaught of dizzy, drunken cuts, hot bodies in empty poses, shifting perspectives (with a babble of alternating character voice-overs to accompany) and often sickening images. (David Germain, Associated Press) (R, 130 minutes)

‘The Place Beyond the Pines’ 

A motorcycle stunt rider turns to robbing banks as a way to provide for his lover and their newborn child, a decision that puts him on a collision course with an ambitious rookie cop navigating a department ruled by a corrupt detective. Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, Eva Mendes and Ray Liotta star in this drama about fathers and sons and their tortured bonds. Director Derek Cianfrance has created a troubling trilogy on the legacy of one brutal encounter that cuts a destructive path through multiple lives. (R, 140 minutes)

‘The Sapphires’ 

Four young, talented Australian Aboriginal girls in 1968 learn about life, friendship and war when their vocal group entertains the U.S. troops in Vietnam. The movie sparkles with sass and Motown soul, and unapologetically aims for mass-audience appeal. It reduces the war, rampant racism, love troubles and showbiz chicanery to minor hurdles in this irrepressibly upbeat story. (Colin Covert, Minneapolis Star-Tribune) (PG-13, 103 minutes)

‘Scary Movie 5′ 

The supernatural spoofs continue in this franchise, starring Jerry O’Connell and Ashley Tisdale, with cameos by Lindsay Lohan and Charlie Sheen. It’s a series of short sketches that don’t end with a payoff, performed by actors who need a paycheck. (Roger Moore, McClatchy Newspapers) (PG-13, 85 minutes)

‘Storm Surfers 3D’ 1/2

The documentary follows legendary pro surfers Tom Carroll and Ross Clarke-Jones on their quest to ride big waves in previously unridden breaks. The film effectively delivers the visceral scare of riding these monster waves, but the audience also gets to know the two as people, not just athletes, and their dangerous enthusiasm is almost as fascinating as their sport. (Ryan Senaga, Special to the Star-Advertiser) (NR, 95 minutes)

‘Tai Chi Hero’ 

The sequel to Stephen Fung’s “Tai Chi Zero,” our hero is still trying to find his place in a village filled with martial arts masters, even though he helped save the town from a frightening steam-powered machine. The production quality is top-notch, and there’s undeniably an entertainment value to it, albeit an empty one. (G. Allen Johnson, San Francisco Chronicle) (NR, 144 minutes)

SPECIAL

Hana Hou Picture Show: ‘Top Gun’ and ’Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’ 7 and 10 p.m. Monday (“Top Gun”) and Wednesday (“Indiana Jones”), Ward Stadium Titan XC; $10.25

Two audience favorites get the really big screen treatment: the Tom Cruise high-flying actioner from 1986 and the 1989 adventure movie starring Harrison Ford and Sean Connery.

DORIS DUKE THEATRE

Honolulu Museum of Art, 900 S. Beretania St., entry on Kinau Street (532-8768): $10 general, $8 museum members (tickets also available online at honolulumuseum.org)

Cinématheque Fran’aise Film Festival: ‘Paris~Manhattan’

1 p.m. today and Tuesday, 4 p.m. Saturday

A romantic comedy about a young woman whose choices in life and love are shaped by the philosophies of her favorite filmmaker, Woody Allen. (2012, 80 minutes)

‘A Lady in Paris’

7:30 p.m. Sunday, 1 p.m. Wednesday

An intimate and comedic portrait of a haughty, sharp-tongued elderly Estonian émigré living in Paris, and her caregiver, freshly arrived from the home country. (2012, 94 minutes)

‘Thérese’

7:30 p.m. today and Tuesday

Audrey Tautou plays a free-spirited woman suffocated by a provincial marriage and yearning in vain to escape to a bohemian life in Paris during the Jazz Age. (2012, 110 minutes)

‘Jules and Jim’

1 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday

Fran’ois Truffaut’s 1962 French New Wave masterpiece that charts the relationship between two male friends and the alluring female object of their mutual obsession over the course of 25 years. Jeanne Moreau, Oskar Werner and Henri Serre star. (1962, 107 minutes)

MOVIE MUSEUM

3566 Harding Ave. (735-8771): $5 general, $4 members; reservations recommended

‘Starlet’

Noon, 2, 4 and 6 p.m. today; noon, 3:45 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday

Taking place in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, the film looks into the odd relationship between a young, aimless actress and the lonely, aging widow she befriends. (2012, 103 minutes)

‘After Life’

Noon and 7:30 p.m. Monday

The newly dead are met in a way station by celestial staff who help them in choosing and then re-creating the memory — be it good or bad — that will be all that they take with them into eternity. (1998, Japan, 118 minutes)

‘Undertaking Betty’

Noon, 7 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 5:45 p.m. Sunday

A woman, whose husband is cheating on her, and an undertaker, who has been in love with her since their childhood, decide to fake her death so they can be together. Brenda Blethyn, Alfred Molina and Naomi Watts star. (2002, U.K., 94 minutes)

‘Memories of a Marriage’

1:45, 3:30 and 5:15 p.m. Saturday

A man looks back at his lengthy relationship with his wife during a summer garden party with friends and family. (1989, Denmark, 90 minutes)

‘A Love to Hide’

Noon, 2 and 8 p.m. Monday; 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. Thursday

After the slaughter of her family by the SS, a Jewish girl flees into the comforting care of her homosexual friend and his faithful lover, who are themselves hiding their secret life from the Nazi occupation. (2005, France, 102 minutes)

‘Mundane History’

Noon, 1:30, 3 and 8:30 p.m. Thursday

A family drama about the friendship that develops between a young paralyzed man from a wealthy Bangkok family and his male nurse. (2009, Thailand, 82 minutes)

MONDAY MOVIE CAFE

TheVenue, 1146 Bethel St. (436-4326); $10, $5 students

‘Resilience’

7 p.m. Monday

A story of loss and separation, this is a character-driven documentary that takes a unique look at international adoption from the perspective of a Korean birth mother and her American son, and their reunion 30 years later. (2012, 75 minutes)

Do It: Hokus All-Stars, Kapono, more

Duncan Kamakana, Hawaii’s latest contribution to “The Voice,” will join the list of performers at the suitably named Na Hoku Hanohano All-Stars Concert Saturday at Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Kamakana joins Raiatea Helm, John Cruz, Maunalua and ukulele wiz Taimane Gardner on the Hilton’s Great Lawn for the show, accompanied by Tihati Productions dancers. The concert is part of Mele Mei, a monthlong series of concerts, workshops and special events tied to the 2013 Hoku Awards.

Kamakana, son of Hoku winner and Hawaiian culture expert Jon Osorio, was performing at a Waikiki nightclub when he got his break after performing on a local Burger King commercial. The commercial landed him an audition on “The Voice,” where he was selected by Adam Levine of Maroon 5 after singing “Home” in the blind auditions. He was ousted in the second round in a match with Sarah Simmons, even though judge Usher told him, “You have a confidence that drives women crazy.”

The young singer is joined by plenty of talent. Maunalua won Hokus for its first three albums, including the coveted Hawaiian Album of the Year for his first, “Maunalua.” Cruz recently opened for Bonnie Raitt, and his second album, “One of these Days,” won the Hoku for Contemporary Album of the Year. Helm has earned eight Hokus, including two for her 2002 debut CD, “Far Away Heaven,” produced when she was 18. She also has received two Grammy nominations. Gardner has been burning up the music scene with her virtuosic versions of pop, jazz and traditional tunes.

Where: Hilton Hawaiian Village
When: 6 p.m. Saturday
Cost: $35-$70
Info: www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com/mele or 949-4321

TODAY

Kapono honors troops with ‘I’m Coming Home’

Henry Kapono has frequent regular gigs at Hono­lulu venues, but his show at Hawaii Theatre today will be something special.

“The quality of the experience will be great,” Kapono said. “We have dancers and a whole production, with choreography. … We’ve got taiko drums and warriors. It’s a big production.”

The show started with the base material of Kapono’s Grammy-nominated 2006 album, “The Wild Hawaiian,” which morphed into an entire production of music, dance and talk-story.

“We keep refining it every year, and now we’re getting in more and more requests for it,” Kapono said.

Those performances are often for private events and show a side of his life not usually seen by the general public, he said.

With this concert, “I get to share with the public and show them what else I do.”

The “I’m Coming Home” concert is billed as a tribute to the troops — those who serve in the U.S. armed services.

Kapono has been performing for troops for many years, reaching back to a tour of Vietnam.

“I have a good understanding of what they do and where their heads were at,” he said of soldiers. “I just want to show my appreciation and want people to know the things they do.”

The show includes state Poet Laureate Kealoha, taiko master Kenny Endo, a martial arts performance by the Au Shaolin Arts Chinese Lions, slam poet Jonathan “Intrepid” Sypert, the Wild Wahine Dancers from Kapono’s “Wild Hawaiian” show and surprise guests.

“Everything’s pretty unique and different,” Kapono said.

Where: Hawaii Theatre
When: 7:30 p.m. today
Cost: $25-$60
Info: www.hawaiitheatre.com or 528-0506

Saturday

‘Cantopop’ mixes Chinese sounds, Western tunes

Barinna Poon used to sing in her native Hong Kong. These days she’s involved in business here, but that background came in handy in putting on “Hong Kong Night,” a night of Hong Kong pop that returns to Hawaii Theatre on Saturday night.

“I’m able to talk to the singers directly,” she said. “I tell them, ‘Did you ever come to Hawaii?’ and if not, then I tell them, ‘Why don’t you come to visit?’ … Because it’s for me, I’ll take them around.”

Hong Kong pop music, also known as “Cantopop” (Cantonese popular music) is a mixture of Chinese music, jazz, rock and rhythm and blues, with the subject matter often sentimental and romantic. Singers perform mostly in Cantonese or Mandarin, although a few songs will be in English for non-Chinese speakers, Poon said.

The concert features four well-known artists from Hong Kong.

Suzan Guterres, above, is a multilingual singer of classical and pop songs.

Singer Jenny Keung got her start in a television contest.

Hon Yeung, pictured inset, is a former teen idol who went on to compose many hit songs for other performers and hosted a television show.

Lo Hoi Pang, an award-winning actor in Hong Kong who also dabbles in singing, will contribute his witty interpretations of pop tunes.

“He is a funny kind of singer, not serious,” Poon said, adding that Lo is 72. “He’ll take a song and change the lyrics, things like that.”

Where: Hawaii Theatre
When: 7 p.m. Saturday
Cost: $25-$60
Info: www.hawaiitheatre.com or 528-0506

— Steven Mark

SUNDAY

Christian music artist Smith promises ‘intimate’ concert

Award-winning Christian musician Michael W. Smith brings his uplifting ballads and soft-rock tunes to Blaisdell Concert Hall on Sunday.

Smith has been a mainstay on the Christian and gospel music scene since his first album, “The Michael W. Smith Project,” which included the hit “Friends,” came out 30 years ago. Since then Smith has recorded 24 albums, winning an American Music Award, three Grammy Awards (out of 13 nominations) and 44 Dove Awards, an award given by the Gospel Music Association. His career sales top 15 million albums. His most recent release is 2011′s “Glory,” his second instrumental album.Smith grew up in West Virginia and became interested in music performing with the church choir. He moved to Nashville, Tenn., after a few semesters in college and wrote for many top Christian artists, who popularized his songs to the point where many of them are now included in church hymnals. He was gospel singer Amy Grant’s keyboardist for two years, giving him connections that eventually led to his first album. Many of the tunes on that album were co-written with wife Debbie.Though Smith’s performances are often grand affairs with an orchestra providing the backup to his keyboard, guitar and vocals, the Blaisdell concert is billed as an “intimate acoustic set.”

Where: Blaisdell Concert Hall
When: 7 p.m. Sunday
Cost: $35-$70
Info: www.ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000

TICKER:

The Punahou High School Chorale’s “Kumulipo.” 7:30 p.m. Saturday at St. Andrew’s Cathedral. Free. www.thecathedralofstandrew.org/music-blog

Three Walls debuts in Kaka’ako

The Three Walls Music Festival, which goes down Saturday at CoXist Studio in Kakaako, will feature a wide variety of musicians and entertainment for the whole family, including games and food vendors. PHOTO COURTESY M CASA ENTERTAINMENT

By Elizabeth Kieszkowski / ekieszkowski@staradvertiser.com

Kakaako plays host to an vibrant festival of global music from local players this weekend with the Three Walls Music Festival.

More than two dozen musicians, 20-plus dancers, seven DJs and four artists will provide the entertainment at CoXist Studio, joined by eight food vendors, a photo booth and games, and a stage and bar inside and out.

Outside, the evening-long lineup is open to all ages and free for children. Inside, the “Speakeasy” space is only for ages 21 and older.

The hosts are Kealoha, a slam poet who often performs shirtless and has been named Hawaii’s first poet laureate, and TV host Lauren Makk.

CoXist’s Casea Collins-Wright and musician/promoter Enrique Zender are the presenters in a “collaborative effort,” as Zender calls it, that intends to broaden the reach each of the hosts has already developed. They have teamed up in the past to help organize and promote elements of Kakaako’s Honolulu Night Market.

“It was an easy decision to get involved,” Zender said, because both were passionate about live music, and had experienced a thriving scene in Austin, Texas (Collins-Wright), and San Diego (Zender).

For Collins-Wright and CoXist, it’s an expansion of ideas she’s already put into place.

“It’s definitely the biggest production we’ve done so far, by quite a bit,” Collins-Wright said. “We’re still considering it a boutique performance, so we’re trying to keep it relatively intimate, but it is a festival.

“The whole purpose of the event is to really appreciate some of these incredible artists who are here in Honolulu, and to bring them together.

“It’s a way for people to find new music, as well.”

MUSICIANS include ukulele prodigy Taimane, Na Hoku Hanohano nominees Sing the Body and Mano Kane, hard-driving blues-rock guitarist Tavana, Brazil-flavored 2do Bem and the exuberant bluegrass/Americana trio Discord & Rye.

With “Discover Kaka’ako” going on simultaneously at Ward Centre, Three Walls could be a new opportunity for those who are curious about Kakaako to spend an evening there and see what creatives can do.

Art will adorn the walkway between CoXist and adjacent buildings, which face Auahi Street, with seating and food served in the reclaimed alley.

It’s all casual — no VIP, no dress code — but with a cosmopolitan atmosphere typified by the event’s “globally inspired cuisine” (including Peruvian dishes) and “craft cocktails” (in addition to Hawaiian beer).

“We wanted to make it so you can bring your family, you can bring your friends, anyone who can enjoy the music,”Collins-Wright said.

ZENDER, a musician himself, brings a background as a Latin percussionist, promoter and artist’s rep to the mix. He has been performing with Taimane for the past three years and has presented several multifaceted events, including an “Epiphany” series at the­Venue in Chinatown.

Zender encountered Taimane’s talent at Ong King, where she was jamming with Quadraphonix.

“I sensed that she was an ukulele virtuoso destined for greatness,” he said in an email from Maui, where he was spending the weekend. “Her passion for flamenco combined with her love of rock and insight to classical sets the stage for a tremendous cross-genre performance, which is what Three Walls is all about.

“Similarly, the first night I saw Tavana perform at Kelley O’Neil’s years ago, he blew me and the crowd away with his powerful voice and his relentless mastery of the guitar.

“2do Bem has a special place in my soul because they truly evoke all the sexy energy and emotion of Brazil when they perform, and in front of huge crowds (like Mardi Gras Carnaval and Hallowbaloo Block Parties) they have the ability to transport you straight to South America.”

Zender praised Hoku nominee Sing the Body for its command of the stage and “powerhouse” performances, and the “vintage soul” of Mano Kane, who recently opened for Alabama Shakes in front of a sold-out crowd at The Republik.

Zender is pegging the Speakeasy Lounge Stage inside as “an eclectic soundscape of magnetic singer/songwriters,” including bluesman Boogie, Candy Diaz, Erika Elona and Bernardo Barros, who has a Brazilian contemporary vibe.

“These Three Walls artists all have that innate ability to captivate large audiences with a presence that will last much longer than their musical set,” he said.

The event takes place at CoXist Studio, reclaimed from a long-empty warehouse owned by Kameha­meha Schools.

The studio is temporary, Collins-Wright notes — Kamehameha intends to replace it with another development in the not-so-distant future. Until that day, she is making the most of the opportunity to collaborate on creative play.

“Come and discover some great food, people, music,” she said. “There’s an insane amount of creative activity here.”

Rain brings Beatles back

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By John Berger / jberger@staradvertiser.com

Mark Lewis, founder and manager of “Experience The Beatles with Rain,” the multimedia show that opens Tuesday in the Blaisdell Concert Hall, wants Hawaii to know that the show is about more than four guys playing the songs that everybody knows.

“We take people on a trip through The Beatles era, starting in the ’50s and going through their breakup,” Lewis said last week. ”We use lighting, interactive video, set pieces, you name it.

“We really view ourselves as specialized musicians,” he continued.

“If you’ve ever really listened to a Beatles record, you realize you’ve got to be a great player and you’ve got to be a great musician. You gotta play multiple instruments, you gotta sing in really high keys on a regular basis. You have to be able to harmonize. You have to be able to act and look and perform like the person that you’re trying to portray onstage.”

In short, it takes more than physical similarities, a costume and some makeup.

Clockwise from top left, Joey Curatolo, left, Steve Landes, Ralph Castelli and Joe Bithorn are, respectively, Paul, John, Ringo and George in “Rain.”

“When somebody uses the word ‘impersonator,’ I don’t say it’s insulting, but at the same time, realistically, it doesn’t really accurately convey what we do, which is a high-caliber musical of a band that never really toured that much.”

Lewis traces his interest in The Beatles back to Feb. 9, 1964, when the Fab Four appeared on the “Ed Sullivan Show” for the first time. It was a night that reshaped a generation of Americans. Lewis was one of them.

“These guys arrived (with) a totally new look, a totally different sound. They talked different, they acted different. They were charming. They wrote their own music. They played their own instruments. … It was a totally different thing.”

The Beatles broke up in 1970. A few years after that, Lewis was a member of a Los Angeles bar band whose repertoire included Beatles songs. The group’s long-term goal was national success with its own originals, but as a short-term project the members decided to put all the early Beatles songs they knew in one set and all the “Sgt. Pepper” and “Magical Mystery Tour” songs in another.

The concept “took on a life of its own,” he said.

The band — then named Reign — filled clubs on what had been slow nights, and better offers from bigger venues came in and kept coming. What began as a short-term project became a full-time career.

Lewis retired as a performing member of Reign in 2010, focusing now on management.

Yes, Lewis says, there are a lot of bands out there that play tributes to The Beatles.

“We like to believe that we’ve taken it to a level that nobody else on this planet has done, and we have the credits behind us — from the bars of L.A. on a Monday night … to a movie soundtrack, to being a hit Broadway show, to touring all around the world with what I believe are the best musicians at re-creating the music and the aura of The Beatles on the planet,” Lewis said.

“Now we’re coming to Hawaii.”

MEET RAIN:

JOE BITHORN (George Harrison; vocals, lead guitar). Grew up in Manhattan and Long Island listening to jazz, Latin and classical music. Portrayed Harrison in touring production of “Beatlemania.” Joined Rain in 1983. Also an active studio musician.

Question: What’s the best part of being a member of Rain?

Answer: Working with the other guys who have extensive (musical) backgrounds and talent. … We’re all just huge Beatles fans, among many varied music styles that we all appreciate. For being the Beatles fans that we are, we feel that we hit the mark.

Q: Do you have a favorite period of Beatles music?

A: I enjoy everything, but at the time when they stopped touring and they really concentrated on their efforts as more of studio art as opposed to what they could play live, they really started to create these masterpieces in the studio. It all piqued my interest, but everything “Rubber Soul” and beyond was really an amazing thing. You could tell they were using the studio as their instrument.

Q: What do you like to listen to when you’re not working?

A: What I consider good music is what I like to listen to, and that can range from anything from classical music to jazz to blues.

Q: Is there something you’d like to ask Harrison?

A: At the very, very tail end of “I Need You,” he does some very complex chord work. Technically what it is is he’s using this minor chord but with a minor second to it as well added in. That’s much more of a complex jazz chord. … I’d ask him, “Where did you get that? What did you listen to to hear that?”

JOEY CURATOLO (Paul McCartney; vocals, bass, piano, guitar). Grew up in Brooklyn listening to classical music and opera. Toured with the Broadway production of “Beatlemania.” Joined Rain in 1983. An active singer-songwriter, studio musician and recording artist.

Q: What’s the best part of being a member of Rain?

A: Being able to bring this music to multiple generations and share it with them, because we consider it classical music.

Q: Do you have a favorite period of Beatles music?

A: I prefer “Rubber Soul” to the “Magical Mystery Tour” album, those three or four albums right there, because I think that’s where the band really started to get cohesive with their writing and their abilities in the studio. The early days were exciting … but where they really became the artists that they are was from “Rubber Soul” on.”

Q: What do you like to listen to when you’re not working?

A: I prefer the pop world, but I love classical music — Beethoven, Bacharach and The Beatles!

Q: Is there something you’d like to ask Paul McCartney?

A: At this point in my career, when the day comes that I do meet him, ’cause I’m going to, I will just thank him for the memories and the education. It’s like meeting Mozart. I’d just say, “Thanks for everything. Thanks for giving me the melody of life. Without you I wouldn’t be loving music as much.”

RALPH CASTELLI (Ringo Starr; drums, percussion, vocals). Born and raised in Southern California. Saw The Beatles on the “Ed Sullivan Show” in February 1964 and decided that playing drums was what he was born to do. Portrayed Ringo in the touring production of “Beatlemania” and was also cast as Ringo in “Beatlemania: The Movie.” Joined Rain in 1986.

Q: What’s the best part of being a member of Rain?

A: It goes back to that magical night (in 1964). … There was a drum set in the house, but it wasn’t until that moment in time where I instantly loved The Beatles — loved their outfits, their hair — but I gravitated to Ringo. That’s where it took off for me. The rest is history.

Q: Do you have a favorite period of Beatles music?

A: I love it all. (It’s) very tough to pick but I go through periods. … “Pepper,” “The White Album” and “Abbey Road,” that’s where I was last week.

Q: What do you like to listen to when you’re not working?

A: In the last couple of years, I’ve started to love the music that my parents were listening to (from) the ’40s — bebop, the old-time jazz (and) Frank Sinatra.

Q: Is there something you’d like to ask Ringo Starr?

A: There are so many things I like to ask him … but if it was the right moment in time, I’d thank him for teaching me how to play an instrument and to share it with the world. I would thank him before I asked him anything.

STEVE LANDES (John Lennon; vocals, rhythm guitar, piano, harmonica). A lifelong, second-generation Beatles fan. Taught himself guitar at 10 listening to Beatles records, joined “Beatlemania” at 17. Joined Rain in 1998. A songwriter, recording artist and actor.

Q: What’s the best part of being a member of Rain?

A: Getting to exercise that side of my Beatles fandom. … It’s great to meet other Beatles fans.

Q: Do you have a favorite period of Beatles music?

A: I always loved the early stuff — the youthful energy of 1963, 1964 — when they were still just trying to break out and become something.

Q: Is there something you’d like to ask John Lennon?

A: It would really be great to just sit down and get to know him as a person because there are so many stories, so many conflicting stories (about him). … I can only imagine if I sat down with him, maybe I’d get my own piece of the puzzle.

This Week in TGIF: The Beatles with Rain

Following the sun

Mark Lewis, founder and manager of “Experience The Beatles with Rain,” the multimedia show that opens Tuesday in the Blaisdell Concert Hall, wants Hawaii to know that the show is about more than four guys playing the songs that everybody knows.

• Three Walls debuts in Kaka’ako
• ‘This Wave’ proves cathartic for Stef Muzic
• Pau Hana Patrol: Catch up with Ryan’s
• Quick Bites: Just for mom
• The Pulse Top 5: NAS at the Republik, Cinco De Mayo, Wahoo’s and more
• At the Movies: ‘The Great Gatsby’, ‘Peeples’, more
• Out ‘N’ About: Hawaii Pet Expo, Henry Kapono, more
• Do It! Kapono, ‘Cantopop,’ ‘Mele Mai,’ more
• To Do! Mice Parade, Hawaii Book & Music Festival and more

Freestyle: Coheed and Cambria return

Coheed and Cambria. (Courtesy Bud Light)

BY ELIZABETH KIESZKOWSKI / ekieszkowski@staradvertiser.com

Coheed and Cambria, hard-rocking, prog-loving creators of a Gothic sci-fi saga that has stretched across multiple albums, are returning to Honolulu as part of a Budweiser-sponsored “Music First” series of concerts that will bring nationally renowned acts to all 50 states on Aug. 1. The company is calling the event “50/50/1″ — 50 acts, 50 states, one day.

‘Bud Light Music 50/50/1′ With Coheed and Cambria » Where: The Republik, 1349 Kapiolani Blvd. » When: 8 p.m. Aug. 1 » Cost: $30 general admission, $50 risers » Info: (855) 235-2867 or flavorus.com

The band has a new album out, “The Afterman: Descension,” which rose as high as No. 9 on the Billboard Album charts. In albums “The Second Stage Turbine Blade” (2002), “In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3” (2003), “Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV” (Volumes One and Two, 2005 and 2007) and “Year of the Black Rainbow” (2010), Coheed and Cambria spun out the story of The Amory Wars and fated couple Coheed and Cambria, a “Monstar” virus, their sons’ quest for revenge, and opposing forces of good and evil.

In 1995, before the last time Coheed and Cambria played on Oahu, big-haired, sweet-voiced lead singer Claudio Sanchez said, “It’s like a sci-fi story that takes place in an alternate past on an alternate solar system.”

The fantasy was influenced by Sanchez’ admiration for science fiction author Frank Herbert, and the band’s overall love for classic rock in the vein of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd’s “The Wall.” The story has been depicted as a series of graphic novels, and is now under development for a film.

With the latest two albums, “The Afterman: Ascension” (2012) and “Descension,” a new story arc connected to the concept has been launched.

The band’s last five releases have reached the Top 10 on Billboard’s Top 200 album chart.

In the weeks before this concert, Coheed and Cambria have dates lined up in Florida, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Japan and South Korea. On their website, preceding the announcement of the Aug. 1 show, the band posted, “Hawaiian vacay.”

BUD LIGHT, the sponsor, has partnered with MySpace, with interviews and music from artists involved, and live streaming of select concerts on Aug. 1. Other bands involved include Kendrick Lamar, Sublime with Rome, Alex Clare and The Flaming Lips.

Myspace will link to the Bud Light Music First app, which offers a chance to win music-related prizes, including free tickets to the show, or the app can be found directly through Apple’s iTunes and Google Play for Android.

“It’s not uncommon for fans to travel cross-country to see their favorite acts perform at summer music festivals, but we’re turning the traditional festival concept on its head by bringing the show to everyone,” Bud Light vice president Rob McCarthy said in a statement.

All the concerts, including Honolulu, will be for ages 21 and older. Tickets are on sale via Flavorus.com, at The Republik (with no ticket fees) and at Local Motion stores, the UH-Manoa Campus Center, Navy, Hickam and Marine Corps ITT offices and Coast Guard MWR offices.
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Elizabeth Kieszkowski is editor of TGIF, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s weekly arts and entertainment section. Reach her via email at ekieszkowski@staradvertiser.com or follow her on Twitter.

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Po’okela Awards winners named

HONOLULU PULSE STAFF / honolulupulse@staradvertiser.com

A nonfiction book that documents the lives of the mostly Native Hawaiian individuals who were sent to the leprosy settlement at Kalaupapa was named winner of the Samuel M. Kamakau Award for Hawai‘i Book of the Year at the 20th annual Ka Palapala Po‘okela book awards.

“Kalaupapa: A Collective Memory,” by Anwei Skinsnes Law with design by Julie Matsuo-Chun, used oral histories as its primary source. The book, published by the University of Hawaii Press, also tied for the Award of Excellence in the Hawaiian language, culture and history category and earned honorable mention for nonfiction.

The judges praised the volume as “a very important contribution to Hawaiian history” and recognized Law for “an exemplary job constructing an insightful narrative from these sources into a book that is beautifully realized by UH Press,” according to a news release.

Sharing the Award of Excellence for Hawaiian language, culture and history was “Ancestry of Experience: A Journey into Hawaiian Ways of Knowing,” by Leilani Holmes (UH Press).

The awards were announced by the Hawai‘i Book Publishers Association Friday at a festive gathering held at the Hawaii State Library as part of the state library system’s 100th anniversary.

Chris McKinney won the literature category for his fifth book, “Boi No Good: A Novel of Family, Crime and Betrayal in a Hawai‘i of Turmoil” (Mutual Publishing). The judges noted “his book is like Oahu itself: crowded, noisy, multicultured and layered, passionate, relentless, sometimes junky, sometimes beautiful, always engaging.”

“Wipeout! & Hanging Ten in Paris: Two Surfing Detective Mysteries,” by Chip Hughes (Slate Ridge Press), received honorable mention for literature.

Well-known author and filmmaker Tom Coffman collected the top award for nonfiction for “I Respectfully Dissent,” his biography of Hawaii Supreme Court Justice Edward H. Nakamura (UH Press). The judges agreed that “in a field of worthy contenders, this book — a slim volume that belies the reams of research and dozens of interviews that were winnowed into it — stands above and apart.”

A total of 45 entries from 37 separate book projects were nominated in 10 categories. Nominated books will be displayed at the publishers association booth at the Hawaii Book & Music Festival on May 18-19 at the Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds next to Honolulu Hale. For more on the awards, visit www.hawaiipublishers.org.

Other Award of Excellence winners include:

» Children’s Literature: “A Coconut Named Bob,” by Austin Weaver, illustrated by Don Robinson (Island Heritage)

» Design: Barbara Pope of Barbara Pope Book Design, “Engraved at Lahainaluna: A History of Printmaking by Hawaiians at the Lahainaluna Seminary, 1834 to 1844,” by David W. Forbes (Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives); Pope also received honorable mention for her design work for “Ili Na Ho‘omana‘o o Kalaupapa: Casting Remembrances of Kalaupapa,” by Anwei Skinsnes Law and Valerie Monson, with photography by Wayne Levin (Pacific Historic Parks

» Photographic or Illustrative Books: “Ili Na Ho‘omana‘o o Kalaupapa: Casting Remembrances of Kalaupapa”; Honorable mention: “Engraved at Lahainaluna”

» Natural Science: “Loulu: The Hawaiian Palm,” by Donald R. Hodel (UH Press); Honorable mention: “In the Beginning: Archipelago, The Origin and Discovery of the Hawaiian Islands,” by Dr. Richard W. Grigg (Island Heritage)

» Cookbooks: “A Splash of Aloha: A Healthy Guide to Fresh Hawaiian Seafood,” by Kapiolani Community College (Watermark); Honorable mention: “Little Hawaiian Liliko‘i Cookbook,” by Gail Hercher (Mutual)

» Special Interest: “The ‘Ukulele: A History,” by Jim Tranquada and John King (UH Press); Honorable mention: “Gentleman Ed Francis Presents 50th State Big Time Wrestling!,” by Edmund C. Francis with Larry Fleece (Watermark)

» “Aloha from Across the Sea”: “The Queen and I: A Story of Dispossessions and Reconnections in Hawai‘i,” by Sydney Lehua Iaukea (University of California Press); Honorable mention: “Aloha, Mozart,” by Waimea Williams (Luminis Books)

‘Glee’ star visits Shriners Hospital

Naya Rivera, left, and rapper Big Sean at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu. (Star-Advertiser photo by Craig T. Kojima)

BY GARY CHUN / gchun@staradvertiser.com

On vacation with her boyfriend, rapper Big Sean, actress Naya Rivera — better known as cheerleader Santana Lopez on the Fox hit show “Glee” — paid a Friday afternoon visit to the young patients in the recreation therapy room of Shriners Hospital for Children – Honolulu.

The 26-year-old Rivera chatted and posed for photos with the patients, staff and visitors of the hospital during her brief visit while her adoring boyfriend (last name Anderson) looked on.

With a colorful welcome sign behind them, some of the therapy patients performed a simple hula to Keali‘i Reichel’s “Ka Nohona Pili Kai,” much to the delight of their star visitors.

Naya Rivera. (Star-Advertiser photo by Craig T. Kojima)

“You guys got moves,” exclaimed Anderson, and Rivera high-fived 18-year-old Vilimoni Naioko, who later even got a hug and a kiss from Rivera (Anderson gave him an approving thumbs-up).

Rivera makes it a point to visit places like Shriners whenever she travels.

“It’s important to do whatever I can,” she said. “I love meeting new people and I have a soft heart for these kids.”

The young couple are visiting Hawaii as part of a concert stop for Anderson, who will be performing as the headliner for Saturday’s “Legion of Boom” at Aloha Tower Marketplace.

After the visit, Rivera said she missed seeing Thursday’s season finale of “Glee” because she and Anderson were at a luau at Paradise Cove.

“But we plan to watch it tonight,” she said.

Rivera’s character has struck out on her own to New York City, away from her mother and girlfriend Brittany, and is making ends meet as a cage dancer.

“Santana really wants to explore New York and hopefully find a new girlfriend,” she said.

While Rivera doesn’t know what the show writers have planned for next season, it’s her wish that Santana will be out “living it up and having fun.”

“Glee” is Rivera’s most visible gig to date, after years working in episodic television. When asked what it’s meant to her, she said with a laugh “it’s the American dream. I’ve been working since I’ve been 5, but it hasn’t been consistent, until now.”

As for other side-projects, Rivera said “I’m working on my music, still,” which Anderson chimed in “… and she’s really good!” And there will be an independent film coming out in the future, “a psychological thriller called ‘Home,’ where I play the sister to Catalina Sandino Moreno’s character.”

The Hawaii visit is also somewhat of a working vacation for Anderson. Before the hospital visit on Thursday, Anderson was shooting footage for an upcoming video for the breakout track of his next album, “Hall of Fame,” coming out later this summer. The undisclosed song and video will be out by the end of the month, he said.

PICS: ‘Mecca’ at Ginza

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PHOTOS BY JERMEL-LYNN QUILLOPO / Special to the Star-Advertiser

Ginza Nightclub launched a new weekly party, “Mecca,” on Friday, May 10.

PICS: ‘Hello Cutie’ at theVenue

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PHOTOS BY KAT WADE / Special to the Star-Advertiser

Bluestar Clothing, Eightball Hawaii, Bass Lyfe Productions, Shishi Nainai Entertainment and Dirty Disco hosted “Hello Cutie” at theVenue on Friday, May 10.

PICS: Coconut Willy’s Grand Opening

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PHOTOS BY JAMES GARRETT / Special to the Star-Advertiser

Coconut Willy’s reopened at the former Hard Rock Waikiki location at the corner of Kalakaua Ave. and Kapiolani Blvd. on Friday, May 10. Follow the bar on Facebook for more information.