Author: Wayne Harada

Tihati Productions, idle since last year’s statewide pandemic closure, has reopened a total of 10 shows on three islands – an indication that tourism finally is jamming again.

“We have become increasingly busy, and we can’t be more elated to be back in business,” said Afatia Thompson, Tihati president.
“To feel the volume of work increase weekly is such a tremendous blessing for us and all of our Tihati people. Feels good to be jamming again.”

The visitor industry still is struggling to back to levels before the coronavirus forced hotels, showrooms, and restaurants to close, but the sparks of life continue to brighten and widen in  the hospitality. The airlines are shuttling visitors here daily and more routes and carriers — notably Hawaiian, United and Southwest — are increasing flights, a huge boost in visitor arrivals and departures.

“We are eager to continue to enlighten visitors with the vibrant stories of our people and our islands, through the highest caliber of Polynesian performing arts,” said Thompson.

Indeed, all Tihati shows are written by Misty Thompson Tufono, with the concepts, mele and dances linked to Hawaii culture, in many instances embracing the history of the areas where the spectacles are ensconced.

Current shows in production:

Oahu

“Waikiki Starlight Lu’au,” at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Shows on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays

Information: 808-941-5828

“Ka Wa’a Lu’au,” Aulani Resort & Spa

Shows on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Information: 1-866-443-4763

“Aha Aina a Royal Hawaiian Experience,” at Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Shows on Mondays and Thurdays

Information: (808) 921-4600.

 

Maui

“Te Au Moana,” at Marriott Maui, Wailea Beach Resort

Shows on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Information: 877-827-2740

“Feast at Mokapu,” at Andaz Maui

Shows on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays

Information: 808-573-1234

“Drums of the Pacific,” at Hyatt Regency Maui

Shows on Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Information: 808-667-4727

“Maui Nui Lu’au,” Sheraton Maui

Shows on Wednesdays

Information: 808-877-4852

Hawaii Island

“Voyagers of the Pacific,” Royal Kona Resort

Shows on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Information: 808-672-2520

“Waikoloa Sunset Luau,” Waikoloa Beach Marriott

Shows on Mondays and Wednesdays

Information: 808-886-6789

“Legends of Hawaii,” Hilton Waikoloa

Shows on Sundays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Information: 808-886-1234

The performances may fluctuate and are subject to change.

Trip to Mars

Yes, Bruno Mars‘s six shows in July at the Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas are officially sold out.

But with beaucoup bucks, you can get tickets and entrée to see and hear him. Call it a dream vacation – “Trip to Mars” is how the resort is billing this promotion – but it’s costly.

For performances on July 3 and July 24, you have three booking options, according to the Las Vegas Review Journal.

Have your platinum charge card ready. Or simply drool and dream.

The options are keyed to Bruno’s hits:

• The 24 Karat Gold package for four includes a three-night stay a luxurious suite, a Bruno bag of swag, a $500 food/beverage credit and other perks…with prices that started at $6,529. But whoa,  it’s already sold out.
• The Upscale Funk deal includes a three-night stay for two, a luxurious suite, two tickets, a $200 meal/drink credit…with a tab starting at $3,199.
• The When I Was Young suite option includes a two-night visit, two tickets, a $200 credit, starting at $2,499.

Details:  https://www.mgmresorts.com/en/offers/bruno-mars-package.html …

The mask-erade

So now, the CDC has decreed that face masks are not required, under most circumstances, and social distancing is out the window. If you’re vaxxed to the max (one Johnson & Johnson shot, two from Pfizer and Moderna), you’re able to heave the mask in public spaces. There will be issues, maybe confrontations, in the entertainment and dining communities.

But wait: Gov. David Ige has decreed that Hawaii law will continue to require face masks, despite the national change-of-rules. Only 40 per cent of Hawaii’s population has had vaccinations and youngsters 12 and older now are eligible ro be vaxxed.

There are caveats: no official word from the airlines, where mask-wearing might still be prudent; restaurants and private places likely still can maintain their own protocols. So far, so good. It’s still advisable for kids under 12 should wear masks. But can families resolve their own issues — parents unmasked, young kids still protected with masks?

But since you don’ know who got their pokes vs. those who didn’t, for your own safety, maybe masks are still safer to wear. Vaccinations now mean you’ve earned the right to lift the masks; perhaps those who’ve dodged the needles should reconsider and join the crowd doing the right thing. And if you’re still queasy, would you finally attend a mass event like a stadium concert or a filled arena show? Questions abound. What say you? ….

And that’s “Show Biz.” …