03-16-2016, 06:33 PM
quote:Aloha, Kiana. Yes, take pillows, and plan to be there early. Follow the Japanese buses (full of people) and stand as close to them as possible in line...[
Originally posted by Kiana
Mahalo for the MM links!
Was wondering if anyone had tips for attending the free Wednesday evening Ho'ike performances? How soon to get there, what to bring, best spots to sit, etc.? We want to finally try to get there this year!
We've heard about the faithfuls that line up the night before and by early morning!
] Buy some local food while you wait, and take your tablet or phone to watch it online (if you're still waiting in line when it starts). Lots of booths to peruse, lots of media, lots of "fanfare", etc. Parking may be a challenge, thus, plan early.
(*Note: We're not going anywhere during the festivities...traffic is going to be horrid, stores will run out of provisions, the town will be filled with many, many, many, visitors, and this island is short of two hundred (200) rooms, as of today (halau included in the count). Combined with the Haili Volleyball Tournament, OMG! [xx(]).
Please wave at all of us watching online from home, should you venture into the "abyss". For some, it is a "once in a lifetime experience"; for others, it's better to watch from home.
Enjoy all the festivities. Sure wish I was younger to enjoy some of the upcoming moments (the best are back stage! [8D] This year, as an example, there are new judges, new "mana", and new criteria.
As one younger Kumu stated, "It is time for traditionalist to step aside, and allow us to move forward...as a people." Here is some of his work (2013 - Mark Keliihoomalu; as he calls to Pele for guidance, strength, and direction):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4byaD9Jb2jg
The history of the "Merrie Monarch", with Uncle George Naope, as the "headmaster", and Aunty Dottie as "head-mother" (if there is such a thing...lol).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0rOYmA-rdA
Perhaps, TMI, apologies for the same. Enjoy!
P.S. Sure wish this County/State would afford our hula festival the funding for sound preservation (not just the "commercial" opportunies.)
JMO.