HOLOHOLO
'Kamaha'o' lu'au showcases legends
Advertiser Staff
Hawaiians possessed a rich literature of mythology — enough stories (and different versions of stories) to fill entire books. But visitors rarely are introduced to many of these, and even some locals are familiar with only a few: Maui capturing the sun, Pele matching wits with Kamapua'a. On the Big Island, a new production, "Kamaha'o: The Wondrous Myths of Hawai'i," goes beyond the usual hotel lu'au in showcasing stories of gods and goddesses, nature and mortals. Offered three times weekly, outdoors on the grounds of the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa in Kona, "Kamaha'o" employs hula, 'oli (chant), mele (singing) and traditional instruments, a live band, eye-catching costuming and elements of Cirque du Soleil-type acrobatics and mime.
In a striking segment, "'E wahine kau iluna" ("woman of the heavens"), a dancer suspended above the stage against the night sky sinuously threads herself around and through a silver hoop, a scene reminiscent of Maui's "'Ulalena" show, the first to apply Cirque techniques to Hawaiian themes.
Developed by Ka 'Ike Productions, "Kamaha'o" (meaning "wonderful, astonishing, marvelous") is a little glitzy, a little rough-edged, and the hula is not quite Merrie Monarch quality, but altogether, it makes for an enjoyable evening and is worthy of praise for exploring the cosmology of the Hawaiian people in more depth, detail and authenticity than most such shows.
For example, at one point, a bare-chested dancer in malo, sporting tusks and fake fur "paws," prances through the crowd portraying the sexy demigod Kamapua'a. Yeah, it's a showbiz gimmick, but it communicates the nature of this character as reflected in the original mo'olelo (stories) — his insouciance, his defiance, the dangerous love game he plays with the powerful goddess, Pele.
"Kamaha'o" plays Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings at 6 and includes dinner and an open bar (wine, beer, mai tais). By the way, locals, the food is 'ono — lots of different poke, mini laulau, kalua pork, lomi salmon, poi. Tickets are $79.95 general, $94.95 preferred seating for visitors; $59.95 general, $74.95 preferred for kama'aina with ID. Since the lawn is flat, and the stage is raised, general seating offers good views. Tickets: (808) 930-4848; www.KaikeHawaii.com.—
