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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Friday, September 1, 2006

The world of stage

 •  Strange days on stage

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

With "Movin' Out" no longer part of the theatrical picture (anticipated September play dates were canceled), only homegrown productions dot the stage landscape — so far — for the 2006-07 season.

Still, each theater group has a must-see.

Premieres? Diamond Head Theatre has first dibs on "Thoroughly Modern Millie." Manoa Valley Theatre is the first community group to do "Urinetown."

"Naupaka: A Hawaiian Love Story" — largely in Hawaiian, with opera-type supertitles for those of us who don't speak it — is an ambitious Tau Dance Theatre endeavor with cultural significance, premiering first at Leeward Community College (as a work in progress), with another one-night engagement (after tweaking) at the Hawai'i Theatre. It blends Hawaiian legends with modern dance, ballet, hula, slack-key guitar and chants.

Kid stuff? Kennedy Theatre brings piracy to the plank, via "Skupper Duppers" (thanks, "Pirates of the Caribbean"). Honolulu Theatre for Youth goes ethnic with "The Magical Bird: A Fabulous Filipino Folk Tale." And Paliku Theatre offers the peachy "James and the Giant Peach."

Revivals? Army Community Theatre brings "Annie" back into the spectrum. At Hawai'i Pacific University, "The Lion in Winter" roars back. Paliku Theatre revisits "Oklahoma!" turf, and The Actors' Group dusts off the classic "Our Town."

Kumu Kahua's "Living Pidgin" will create a buzz, with da kine Island talk.

There's even a new kid on the block: The Hawai'i Repertory Theatre, comprised of theater vets committed to offering plays with meaning and artistic challenges, makes its debut with "The Real Thing."

And naturally, there are the traditionals: the "Nutcrackers" and "The Christmas Gift of Aloha" during the holidays, and another season of Hana Hou! Hawaiian music, plus the winter grand opera season.

Details follow. ...

ARMY COMMUNITY THEATRE

Classic Broadway musicals, staged at Richardson Theatre, Fort Shafter. Opening nights, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; repeats at 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Season tickets, $60, $75 adults; $45, $50 children; individual tickets, $15, $20 adults; $12, $15 children; available later. 438-4480, www.squareone.org/ACT

SEASON:

  • "Sweeney Todd," Sept. 7-23 — The Stephen Sondheim musical slices up intrigue and dark comedy, involving a demon barber on Fleet Street and his enterprising neighbor with an astounding baking secret recipe. See story on Page 16.

  • "Annie," Nov. 16-Dec. 2 — The tuneful family show, based on the comic strip about an orphan girl's sun-will-come-out-tomorrow optimism. The iconic song "Tomorrow" is the show's best-known. Shari Lynn stars as Miss Hannigan, Brad Powell directs, Katherine Jones choreographs. Audition dates: Sept. 11-13.

  • "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," Feb. 22-March 10 — The first Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice musical with Biblical ties, centering on a colorful coat and a family of brothers. Vanita Rae Smith directs, Grace Bell Humerickhouse choreographs. Auditions: Nov. 27-29.

  • "Grease," May 10-26 — The 1950s rock musical about high school romance and conflicts, with tunes such as "Greased Lightning" and "Beauty School Dropout." Coco Wiel directs, Daren Kimura conducts. Auditions: March 5-7.

    ARMY COMMUNITY THEATRE READERS THEATRE

    Staged readings of dramas, on the main stage, at 2 p.m. Sundays. $8 at the door, free for ACT main-stage season ticket holders. 438-4400 or www.squareone.org/ACT

    SEASON:

  • "The Oldest Profession," originally scheduled for this month, has been postponed. New dates to be announced.

  • "Uncommon Women and Others," Nov. 19, 26 and Dec. 3 — A drama by Wendy Wasserstein, adapted and directed by Vanita Rae Smith.

  • "Anna in the Tropics," Feb. 25, March 4 and 11 — A Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Nilo Cruz, adapted and directed by Vanita Rae Smith.

  • "Eleemosynary," May 13, 20 and 27 — A drama by Lee Blessing, adapted and directed by Vanita Rae Smith.


    BALLET HAWAII

    Honolulu's leading ballet company. 521-8600, (877) 750-4400

    SEASON:

  • "Black and White Ball: Moulin Rouge," Oct. 14, Hilton Hawaiian Village. Featuring entertainment, gourmet French-inspired dinner, silent auction, dancing. Tables and individual seats available at 521-8600.

  • "The Nutcracker," Dec. 15-17. See Nutcrackers listings below.


    DIAMOND HEAD THEATRE

    "Broadway of the Pacific," at Diamond Head Theatre. Curtain: 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 3 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 4 p.m. Sundays. Season tickets, $49, $99, $146, $196. Individual tickets, $12, $22, $32, $42. 733-0274, www.diamondheadtheatre.com

    SEASON:

  • "Thoroughly Modern Millie," Sept. 22-Oct. 8 — A Tony Award-winning musical based on a movie about the trials and tribulations of flapper-era Millie Dillmount (played by Shawna Masuda), who moves to New York in search of a new life. A Hawai'i premiere. Directed and choreographed by Darren Lee, with music conducted by Emmett Yoshioka.

  • "Cinderella," Dec. 1-17 — Greg Zane, who directed and choreographed "Edwin Drood," will team with New Yorker Tim Albrecht (who did DHT's "The Full Monty") on this fairy-tale classic inspired by the widely viewed 1957 TV musical, with tunes by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Emmett Yoshioka will conduct.

  • "Lend Me a Tenor," Feb. 2-18 — A comedy by Ken Ludwig about the mistaken belief that a famed Italian tenor, Signor Tito Merelli, has died, prompting the Cleveland Grand Opera Company to fret about finding a replacement. A wild romp of mistaken identities, disguises and wholesale scheming.

  • "Sweet Charity," March 23-April 8 — A musical based on an original screenplay by Federico Fellini, Tullio Pinelli and Ennio Flaiano. A poignant and comedic look at the misadventures of Charity Hope Valentine, a dance-hall hostess who's all heart and aspirations. "Big Spender" and "If My Friends Could See Me Now" are iconic tunes. Andrew Sakaguchi will direct and choreograph.

  • "Gigi," May 18-June 3 — Set in turn-of-the-century Paris, with memorable tunes such as "Thank Heaven for Little Girls," "I Remember It Well," and "The Night They Invented Champagne." John Rampage will direct and choreograph, Don Yap will conduct.

  • "You Somebody," July 13-29 — A revival of the Lee Cataluna comedy, with tunes by Keola Beamer, about a mother who guides her family through a whirlwind effort to be "somebody," in the hopes of finding her name boldfaced in a particular newspaper column. Loretta Ables-Sayre will recreate her role as Pua "Ma" Lusa, the housewife seeking glory.


    HAWAII OPERA THEATRE

    Grand opera spectacles, themed "Dangerous Liaisons," at Blaisdell Concert Hall. Season tickets, $81-$333, now on sale; single tickets, $29-$120, available Oct. 16. 596-7858, www.hawaiiopera.org

    SEASON:

  • "Samson & Dalila," Feb. 2 at 8 p.m., Feb. 4 at 4 p.m., Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. — Saint-Saens' opera is based on the Biblical tale of Samson and Delilah. Mark Lundberg is Samson, Malgorzata Walewska is Dalila, William Florescu directs.

  • "Don Giovanni," Feb. 16 at 8 p.m., Feb. 18 at 4 p.m. and Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. — Mozart's opera is based on the legend of Don Juan and often is considered the greatest piece of music ever composed. Lucas Meachum is Don Giovanni, Luz del Alba is Donna Anna, Gustav Andreassen is Leporello, George Dyer is Don Ottavio. Henry Akina directs.

  • "Madama Butterfly," March 2 at 8 p.m., March 4 at 4 p.m. and March 6 at 7:30 p.m. — Puccini's classic romantic tragedy focuses on the doomed relationship between an American sailor Pinkerton and a Japanese geisha Cio-Cio San. Shu Ying Lie is Cio-Cio San, Kip Wilburn is Pinkerton, Yun Deng is Suzuki, Quinn Kelsey is Sharpless, Jeremy Blossey is Goro, Mary Chesnut Hicks is Kate Pinkerton. Karen Tiller directs.

    CONCERT SERIES:

  • "Great American Voices: An Encore," Sept. 10 at 4 p.m. — Featuring talent from HOT's young artists program, at Orvis Auditorium, University of Hawai'i. $12 adults, $8 students and seniors. 956-8742.

  • "Great Singers, Great Songs," Oct. 7 at 7:30 p.m. — Featuring talent from HOT's Opera Studio program. $12 adults, $8 students and seniors. 956-8742.


    HAWAI'I PACIFIC UNIVERSITY THEATRE

    Hawai'i Pacific University Theatre stages shows at the Windward campus. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays (no show on Thanksgiving, with a Wednesday Nov. 22 performance instead), 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. Sundays. $20, $14 students, seniors and military, $3 HPU students. 375-1282

    SEASON:

  • "The Lion in Winter," Nov. 10-Dec. 10 — James Goldman's play, set in the winter of 1183, pairs King Henry II and his Queen Eleanor in a battle royale of wit, scheming and deceit, with some wickedly intriguing fun.

  • "The Cherry Orchard," March 30-April 29 — Anton Chekhov's theatrical masterpiece, circa the turn of the century in Russia, revolves around the estate of Lyubov Ranevskaya, which is on the verge of a sale to clear debts.


    HAWAI'I REPERTORY THEATRE

    A new company, based at Kawananakoa Middle School auditorium, 49 Funchal St. $22.50 adults, $17.50 seniors, $14.50 students with ID. 550-8457, www.hawaiireptheatre.org

    INAUGURAL PLAY:

  • "The Real Thing," Oct. 13-14, 19-21 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 15 and 22 at 4 p.m. — A drama by Tom Stoppard, directed by Susan Park, marks the debut of the Hawai'i Repertory Theatre, composed of Island actors.


    HAWAI'I THEATRE

    Downtown Honolulu's the place to go ("Carnegie Hall of the Pacific") for entertainment. 528-0506, www.hawaiitheatre.com.

    SEASON:

  • Matsudaira Ken in Hawai'i, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. and Sept. 17 at 2 p.m. — Noted Japanese singer dons the garb of a samurai when he performs. $45-$75.

  • Celebrate the Arts 2006, Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. — Nancy Bannick will be saluted as the Alfred Preis honoree; entertainment by Daniel Ho, Halau Hula Ka No'eau, Iolani School Orchestra, Randy Drake, George Kahumoku, Herb Ohta Jr., Dean Taba. Sponsor packages on sale at 533-2787; tickets on sale Sept. 12. 528-0506, www.hawaiitheatre.com.

  • Hana Hou! Hawaiian Music Series, Oct. 27 at 8 p.m. — Featuring Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom in "Generations Hawai'i." Pre-show music at 7:30 p.m. $35.

  • "Naupaka: A Hawaiian Love Story," Nov. 3 — A Tau Dance Theatre presentation. (See Leeward Community College listing.)

  • "Circus Oz," Nov. 15-19 — See Tim Bostock Productions.

  • "The Hawaiian Nutcracker Ballet," Dec. 1-2 at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. — Presented by the Honolulu Dance Theatre. See Nutcrackers.

  • "A Cazimero Christmas," Dec. 21-23 — The Brothers Cazimero resume their holiday extravaganza. Details to be announced.

  • "A Merry Christmas With Friends and Nabors," Dec. 15 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. — The 10th —and final — holiday extravaganza, led by Jim Nabors and featuring Jimmy Borges, Philip Huber and the Huber Marionettes, Karen Keawehawai'i, Emma Veary, Guy Merola, Ann Cole Pierce, Diamond Head Shooting Stars, Halau Hula O Kawailiula, Hula Hui O Kapunahala O Nu'uanu YMCA, The Company Singers and the Hawai'i Theatre Orchestra, conducted by Matt Catingub. Directed by John Rampage. $25-$75, on sale Oct. 3.

  • Hana Hou! Hawaiian Music Series, Jan. 26 at 8 p.m. — Featuring Holunape in "Hawai'i's Songbird: Lena Machado Tribute." Pre-show music at 7:30 p.m. $35.

  • Showtime! Feb. 13-15 — Part of a Student Matinee Series. Details to be announced.

  • Hana Hou! Hawaiian Music Series, Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. — "Be Steel My Heart." Pre-show music at 7:30 p.m. $35.

  • Hana Hou! Hawaiian Music Series, March 9 at 8 p.m. — Featuring The Brothers Cazimero in "Ho'ike Hapa Haole." Pre-show music at 7:30 p.m. $35.

  • Showtime! April 10-13 — Part of a Student Matinee Series, featuring the Honolulu Dance Theatre's "Peter and the Wolf." Details to be announced.

  • Hana Hou! Hawaiian Music Series, April 27 at 8 p.m. — Featuring The Makaha Sons in "The New Traditionalists." Pre-show music at 7:30 p.m. $35.

  • Punchbowl Music Festival, May 15-16 — Featuring Central, Kawananakoa and Stevenson middle schools. Details to be announced.

  • Hana Hou! Hawaiian Music Series, May 25 at 8 p.m. — "Hawai'i Calls." Pre-show music at 7:30 p.m. $35.


    HONOLULU THEATRE FOR YOUTH

    Hawai'i's nonprofit professional theater company, at Tenney Theatre, St. Andrews Cathedral. Opening night, 7:30 p.m. Fridays; repeats at 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Saturdays; exceptions are noted. Season tickets: $60 adults, $30 youths 18 and younger and seniors over 60. Individual tickets: $16 and $8. 839-9885, www.htyweb.org

    SEASON:

  • "Snow White," now-Sept. 23. Hester Kamin's script details a spunky princess, and a single actor plays all seven dwarfs plus the love-interest hunter. Suggested for children 4 and older.

  • "Sport," Oct. 28-Nov. 18. An adaptation by HTY of Barcelona's El Tricicle theater company, "Sport" explores how we play. A Honolulu premiere. Suitable for those 5 and older.

  • "Christmas Talk Story 2006," Dec. 1-23. A holiday tradtion at HTY, assembling rich, personal memories of Christmas, a time for family and reflection. Now in its eighth year. Suitable for those 5 and older.

  • "A Thousand Cranes," Jan. 19-Feb. 10. An adaptation by Kathryn Schultz Miller of the true story of Sadako Sasaki, a young victim of the Hiroshima A-bomb disaster, who takes on the mission of folding 1,000 origami paper cranes in a wish for wellness Suggested for those 7 and older.

  • "The Magical Bird: A Fabulous Filipino Folk Tale," April 13-May 12. With King Ferdinand suffering from insomnia, things are out of kilter in the Philippines in this play by Elizabeth Wong, commissioned as part of the 100th anniversary of Filipinos in Hawai'i. A world premiere. Suitable for those 4 and older.

  • "The Stones," March 2-10. A play by Tom Lycos and Stefo Nantsou, about how a harmless prank of kicking a rock off a freeway overpass can result in a deadly crime and fatal car crash. A Hawai'i premiere. Suggested for those 10 and older.

  • "The Sense-Sational Show," March 13, 17, 31, April 14, at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Cynthia See's play for preschoolers explores the five senses and how we use them. For pre-schoolers 3 and older.

  • "Tales of Old Hawai'i," March 10 and 24, at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. A revival of a Nara Cardenas-BullDog production, about a young girl learning about Hawaiian traditions as she follows her lost kapa beater down a river. Told with puppets and illusions. For those 3 and older.

    Note: HTY also will present "Choice," a play by Yokanaan Kearns, to be performed by actors in "The Stones." The play, staged in a partnership with the Sex Abuse Treatment Center, will include a post-performance facilitated discussion about sexual violence toward women and is intended for male audiences in a tour of schools and communities. Not part of the regular season offerings.


    KENNEDY THEATRE MAIN STAGE

    A mix of academic theater, Asian theater, family and/or youth-oriented shows and dance productions, at Kennedy's main stage. Tickets: A — $12 general; $11 seniors, military, UH faculty and staff; $10 students, children; $5 UHM students with ID; B —$16 general; $14 seniors, military, UH faculty and staff; $11 students, children; $5 UHM students. 956-7655, www.hawaii.edu/kennedy

    SEASON:

  • "Skupper Duppers," Sept. 30, Oct. 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 1 and 8 at 2 p.m. — A family attraction-adventure with a pirate theme, by Flora B. Atkin, set aboard the good ship Skupper-Dup, embracing folk tales and legends from Alaska, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and Hawai'i. Directed by Tamara Montgomery. Those showing up 45 minutes before curtain can enjoy free interactive fun in front of the theater. Admission: A.

  • "A Streetcar Named Desire," Nov. 10-11, 16-18 at 8 p.m., Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. — An American classic by Tennessee Williams, last staged in 1973 at UH, about the conflict between Blanche DuBois and Stanley Kowalski. Directed by Lurana Donnels O'Malley. Admission: B.

  • "Jim Gamble and His Puppets Present Circus," Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 7 at 2 p.m. — The master puppeteer returns for another adventure with his family of puppets. Admission: A.

  • "Kyogen," Jan. 26-27, Feb. 1-3 at 8 p.m., and Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. — A medieval Japanese acting form, directed and translated by Julie Iezzi, taps four traditional plays that highlight stock characters and technique. Kyogen masters from Japan will train the cast and crew. Admission: B.

  • "Dances From the Heart/Land," annual dance concert, March 2-3, 9-10 at 8 p.m., March 11 at 2 p.m. — Featuring "Clowns and Other Fools," a suite of dances by Lotte Goslar, and excerpts from "Anytown," with choreography by Shapiro and Smith and music by Bruce Springsteen, Patti Scialfa and Soozie Tyrell. Admission: B.

  • "As You Like It," April 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 at 8 p.m. and April 15, 22 and 29 at 2 p.m. — Shakespeare's romantic comedy about redemption amid a simpler life in the magical forest of Arden is directed by new faculty member Paul T. Mitri, a founder and past artistic director of the Seattle Shakespeare Company. Admission: B.


    KENNEDY LATE NIGHT (EARLE ERNST LAB THEATRE)

    Theater with edge, at the Earle Ernst Lab Theatre. $10 general, $8 seniors, military, UH staff and students; $4 UH students; on sale an hour before curtain. 956-7655, www.hawaii.edu/kennedy

    SEASON:

  • "Share a Secret," Sept. 30, Oct. 6 and 7 at 11 p.m. and Oct. 1 at 8 p.m. — Directed by Jesse Nakamura, this work is inspired by the content, effect and current popularity of postsecret.com — and examines the role of secrets in our lives.

  • "Thom Pain," Nov. 11, 17-18 at 11 p.m. and Nov. 12 at 8 p.m. — Peter Ruocco performs a pair of monologues: "Thom Pain" by Will Eno, a wry glance at childhood; and "Conviction" (an original), which explores trust between a possible suicide-bomber/performer and his audience.

    Note: Spring shows to be announced.


    KENNEDY PRIME TIME (EARLE ERNST LAB THEATRE)

    Dance and smaller productions at the Ernst Lab Theatre at Kennedy Theatre. $12 general, $10 seniors, military, UH staff and students; $4 UH students. 956-7655, www.hawaii.edu/kennedy

    SEASON:

  • "Fall Footholds," Oct. 18-21 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 22 at 2 p.m. — Featuring new works by UH student choreographers and performers.

  • "Fish Head Soup," Nov. 29-30, Dec. 1-2, 8-9 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 3 and 10 at 2 p.m. — A play by Philip Kan Gotanda, about a family torn by the presumed death of the youngest son ... until he suddenly reappears.

  • "In the Heart of America," March 16-17, 22-24 at 8 p.m. and March 18 and 25 at 2 p.m. — A play by Naomi Wallace, exploring the consequences of war on the body and soul, and set in the Kuwait desert before the 1990-91 Gulf War.

  • "Spring Footholds," May 2-5 at 8 p.m. and May 6 at 2 p.m. — Featuring the MFA and BFA thesis works by UH graduating dance students.


    KUMU KAHUA THEATRE

    Plays about Island life and experiences, at Kumu's downtown space. 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Season tickets, $60 for new subscribers, $50 for renewing subscribers; individual tickets, Fridays-Sundays — $16 general, $13 seniors and groups of 10 or more; $10 students; Thursdays — $13 general, $11 seniors, $5 students and unemployed. 536-4441, www.kumukahua.org

    SEASON:

  • "Mahalo Las Vegas," now-Sept. 24 — A sequel to "Aloha Las Vegas" by Edward Sakamoto, tracking Wally Fukuda in Sin City after he sells his Hawai'i house and his encounters with luckless pal Harry. Staged in repertory with the original. Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., 2 p.m. Sundays, through Sept. 24.

  • "Aloha Las Vegas," now-Sept. 23 — Precedes "Mahalo," about Fukuda's decision to sell his house. Fridays at 8 pm., Saturdays at 2 p.m., through Sept. 23. Staged in repertory with "Mahalo."

  • "Who the Fil-Am I?" Nov. 9-Dec. 10 — Written and directed by Troy Apostol, this multicultural, multi-ethnic play involves three twentysomething Filipino Americans who take a trip to the Philippines — and struggle with their ancestry and identities.

  • "Living Pidgin," Jan. 11-Feb. 11 — Lee Tonouchi's collection of short plays demonstrates why folks call him "Da Pidgin Guerilla."

  • "Kamau," March 15-April 15 — Alani Apio's play, first produced by Kumu Kahua in 1994, is a powerful study of the nature of personal and cultural compromise. The title means "to persevere," and the piece explores complex interrelationships and harsh realities in contemporary Hawai'i.

  • "Teacher, Teacher," May 17-June 17 — Sharon Kido is a 40-year-old college English teacher in Anthony Michael Oliver's play, in which she — Pygmalion style — transforms one of her students, Gavin, in dress, speech and manner.


    LEEWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE THEATRE

    A West O'ahu source of local productions, dance, music and cultural events on the LCC main stage. 455-0385, http://lcctheatre.hawaii.edu

    SEASON:

  • "Naupaka: A Hawaiian Love Story," Oct. 7 at 8 p.m. — World premiere of a three-act contemporary opera based on the Naupaka myth, about the forbidden love between an ali'i and a low-born. Rendered entirely in Hawaiian with English supertitles, it embraces a mix of cultural riches — falsetto, ki ho'alu, orchestral and choral compositions, chant, hula, ballet and modern dance. Peter Rockford Espiritu of Tau Dance Theatre directs the work in progress. $25 adults, $21 students, seniors, military. (Also plays Nov. 3 at the Hawai'i Theatre).

  • "The End of the Moon," Oct. 27 at 8 p.m. — Conceived and performed by Laurie Anderson, the first and only NASA artist-in-residence, whose spoken-word storytelling taps multimedia projects and music. $30 adults, $25 students, seniors, military ($35 and $30 after Oct. 10).

  • "Arabian Nights," Nov. 10-13, 16-18 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 14 at 4 p.m. — An adaptation by Mary Zimmerman of some famous and lesser-known interlocking stories about heroics and foolishness, with a common thread of love and justice. $15 adults, $13 students.

  • LCC Guitar Concert, Nov. 19 at 4 p.m. — LCC Guitars, directed by Peter Kun Frary, of music for classical guitar orchestra, small ensemble and soloists. $5.

  • LCC Holiday Concert, Nov. 26 at 4 p.m. — Elementary and high school choruses join LCC's Kanikapila Singers and Chorus Program in traditional and contemporary Christmas songs. $5.

  • Matato'a, Dec. 1 at 8 p.m. — Matato'a performs a fusion of Polynesian dance and music with Latin, reggae and rock tempos; the group is bedecked in traditional fibers, feathers and takona (body paint) and involves the audience in hoko (dances and songs to express mana). $30 adults, $26 students, seniors, military.

  • "Nutcracker," Dec. 9-10, 16-17. See Nutcrackers.

  • Campbell Brothers, Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. — The Campbells play steel guitar and add a vigorous gospel flavor to their rocking vocals. Think funk with the hallelujah. $23 adults, $19 students, seniors, military.

  • River North Chicago Dance, Feb. 11 at 4 p.m. — A vibrant modern-dance ensemble that finds heat in soul and Cuban music — and more. $23 adults, $19 students, seniors, military.

  • Thomas Mapfumo and the Blacks Unlimited, Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. — Mapfumo's chimurenga (music of struggle) has been banned by the governments of his country for three decades, so he's now living in exile. His sound is influenced by classic R&B, rock, reggae and a mix of Zimbabwean genres. $23 adults, $19 students, seniors and military.

  • Tiempo Libre, March 3 at 8 p.m. — Masters of the Cuban timba rhythms, with Latin jazz and Hispanic sizzle. $27 adults, $23 students, seniors, military.

  • LCC Guitar Concert, April 22 at 4 p.m. — LCC Guitars in another outing for guitar orchestra, small ensemble and soloists. $5.


    LEEWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE LAB THEATRE

    Showcases shorter plays with adult themes. at LCC Lab Theatre. $5. 455-0385, http://LCCtheatre.hawaii.edu

    SEASON:

  • LCC Ten Minute Play Festival, Feb. 9-10 at 4 and 8 p.m. — Annual program of student-produced short plays.

  • One-Act Play, April 5-7, 12-14 at 8 p.m. — Annual presentation of a one-act play, to be selected in the fall.


    MANOA VALLEY THEATRE

    Hawai'i's off-Broadway company. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 4 p.m. Sundays. Season tickets, $125 for six shows, or five-admission Flex Pass; individual tickets, $25 for plays, $30 for musicals. 988-6131; www.manoavalleytheatre.com

    SEASON:

  • "Urinetown," Sept. 6-24 — A musical set in a beleaguered Gotham-like city faced with a 20-year drought where citizens confront a government-enforced ban on private toilets. A Honolulu premiere. See story on Page 16.

  • "Fully Committed," Nov. 15-Dec. 3. A one-man play by Becky Mode that follows a day in the life of Sam Peliczowski, an out-of-work actor who takes reservations at Manhattan's No. 1 restaurant.

  • "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" Jan. 10-28 — Edward Albee's 1963 Tony Award-winning drama involving George, a professor at a small college, and his wife Martha, who has returned home drunk from a Saturday night party, and an unsuspecting young couple she has invited for a nightcap.

  • "She Loves Me," Feb. 21-March 11 — A musical about love, based on Miklos Laszlo's "Parfumerie," about two feuding clerks in a European parfumerie (circa 1930s), who find comfort in their anonymous and romantic pen pals. A Honolulu premiere.

  • "Over My Dead Body," May 9-27 — A murder mystery about three elderly surviving founders of the Murder League, a veddy proper British club of mystery writers, who have watched with some astonishment the dismantling and disintegration of eccentric detectives; they become part of a murdering plot. A Honolulu premiere.

  • "Working," June 27-July 15 — A musical revue based on Studs Terkel's "Working." Explores the average working Joes.


    NUTCRACKERS

    Three traditional "Nutcrackers" and one adaptation mark the yuletide.

    SEASONAL FARE:

  • "The Hawaiian Nutcracker Ballet," Dec. 1-2 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. at the Hawai'i Theatre — The Honolulu Dance Theatre puts a Hawaiian spin to the classic tale, using 'Iolani Palace as the setting. Directed by Matthew Wright. Details to be announced. 988-3202.

  • "The Nutcracker," Dec. 9 and 16 at 2 and 7 pm. and Dec. 10 and 17 at 4 p.m. — Hawai'i Ballet Theatre version, directed by Charlys Ing. Dates are tentative. 456-8100.

  • "The Nutcracker," Dec. 15 at 8 p.m., Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 2:30 p.m., Blaisdell Concert Hall — Ballet Hawaii's production features an international cast including Joan Boada from the San Francisco Ballet, Stella Abrera and Sascha Radetsky from the American Ballet Theatre, and a large corps de ballet of local dancers. Directed by Pamela Taylor-Tongg, with live accompaniment by the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra. Costumes by Anne Namba, sets by Peter Dean Beck. $25-$65, at the Blaisdell box office. (877) 750-4400, www.ticketmaster.com. (Opening night VIP pre- and apres-show package available; 521-8600.)

  • "The Nutcracker," Dec. 8-9, 15-16 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 10 and 17 at 2 p.m., Mamiya Theatre, Saint Louis School — Hawai'i State Ballet's version is directed by John Landovksy. Details to be announced. 947-2755, 783-2747.


    OHI'A PRODUCTIONS

    Family- and environment-oriented shows with Island implications. 247-0455, www.ohia.org

    SEASON:

  • "The Christmas Gift of Aloha," Nov. 24-Dec. 23, from 6 p.m. daily except Mondays — Lisa Matsumoto and Michael Furuya's holiday children's book again comes to life in Ala Moana Center's yuletide stage show exploring the meaning of Christmas and the spirit of aloha. A mall-level Santa parade follows at 7 p.m. Free.

  • "Peril in Paradise," April 13-14, 21, 27-28 at 7 p.m. — In a production staged at the Main Meadow Stage at Honolulu Zoo, superheroes Raymond Rainforest, The Exterminator, Captain Ranger and Wonder Weeder combat the villainous Count Mosquitola, Randy Rat, Mona Mongoose, Mr. Shade and Miss Poka in a fantasy with a realistic core: Invasive species can ruin our paradise. $5-$10 (show admission only, no zoo visits), available in February.


    PALIKU THEATRE

    Staged on the Windward Community College campus; 235-7433, www.etickethawaii.com

    SEASON:

  • The Cashore Marionettes, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m. — A puppet show for adults and children 8 and older. $8, $13, $18. 944-2697, www.etickethawaii.com.

  • "Oklahoma!" Oct. 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 and Nov. 3, 4 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 15, 22, 29, Nov. 5 at 2 p.m. — Ronald Bright directs this Rodgers and Hammerstein evergreen, with choreography by Marcelo Pacleb. $21 adults and seniors, $19 students.

  • Mid-Pacific Institute School of the Arts Fall Dance Show, Dec. 1-2 — Details to be announced.

  • Sounds of Aloha Holiday Barbershop Show, Dec. 9-10 — Details to be announced.

  • "James and the Giant Peach," Feb. 10 at 4 and 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 11 at 4 p.m. — Kris Fitzgerald directs Roald Dahl's children's tale about a tyke with familial woes, who faces an adventure when magic crystals are dropped by an old peach tree. For youths in kindergarten to grade 6. Details to be announced.

  • Aspen Sante Fe Ballet, Feb. 24 — Details to be announced. 944-2697.

  • Rebbie Wilson, Fist & Heel, April 22 — Details to be announced. 944-2697.

  • Mid-Pacific Institute School of the Arts Spring Dance Show, May 4-5 — Details to be announced.


    THE ACTORS' GROUP

    Intimate theater, at the Yellow Brick Studio, at 625 Keawe St. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 4 p.m. Sundays. $15 general, $13 seniors, $12 students. 722-6941, 550-8457, www.taghawaii.org, www.honoluluboxoffice.com

    SEASON:

  • "Sylvia" launched the season with July and August performances.

  • "Our Town," Sept. 14-Oct. 15 — A drama by Thornton Wilder, directed by David Schaeffer. The feel-good, beloved piece is set in Grover's Corners.

  • "K2," Nov.16-Dec. 17 — A drama by Patrick Meyers, directed by Dennis Proulx. A play of challenges, about two climbers, Taylor and Harold, stranded on an icy ledge high up on K2.

  • "Jitney," Feb. 1-March 4 — A drama by August Wilson, directed by Derrick Brown. Urban renewal threatens the future of a gypsy cab driver serving black neighborhoods; the scope is personal yet universal.

  • "Romance," April 12-May 13 — A comedy by David Mamet, directed by David Farmer. A courtroom comedy that serves as a microcosm of the frailties and zaniness of the world.

  • "Mass Appeal," June 21-July 22 — A drama by Bill C. Davis, directed by Brad Powell. Father Tim Farley's Catholic parish is disrupted by the arrival of Mark Dolson, an idealistic seminarian with a bisexual past, who challenges the older priest's sybaritic ways.


    THE ARTS AT MARKS GARAGE

    Multipurpose downtown venue, at 1159 Nu'uanu Ave. 550-8457, www.honoluluboxoffice.com

    SEASON:

  • An Evening of Choreography and Improvisation, a contemporary dance concert, Sept. 14-16 at 8 p.m. — Featuring Maile Okumura of New York's Mark Morris Dance Group, Lisa Orig and Nicole Young of Upside-Down Dance, Minou Lallemand of Onium Ballet. $15.

  • Youth Speaks Hawai'i Monthly Slam, Sept. 16 at 3:30 p.m. — Poet sign-in at 3 p.m, followed by show. Open to all, but mike is reserved for teens. Free. www.youthspeakshawaii.org.

  • "reVERSES," Sept. 26 at 8 p.m. — Spoken-word artists Travis Thompson and Allison Francies headline an evening of poetry, open mike and jazz by DJ Mr. Nick.


    TIM BOSTOCK PRODUCTIONS

    Purveyors of a mixed bag of attractions. 521-2903.

    SEASON:

  • Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Sept. 8, at 7:30 p.m. — The fall series of Hawaiian Music Nights is launched by the Grammy Award nominee and Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner at the Hawai'i Convention Center. $25. 550-8457, www.honoluluboxoffice.com.

  • Jake Shimabukuro, Sept. 30 at 7:30 p.m. — A Hawaiian Music Nights event, featuring the acclaimed 'ukulele soloist, at the Hawai'i Convention Center. $25. 550-8457, www.honoluluboxoffice.com.

  • "Circus Oz," Nov. 15-19, at the Hawai'i Theatre — Australia's innovator in circus artistry and Physical Theatre makes its Island debut in a show of daring and grace, with comic irreverence suitable for the family. Performances at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $15-$60. 528-0506, www.hawaiitheatre.com.

  • "Heartbeat," Dec. 3-31, at Blaisdell Concert Hall — A cast of 65 world-class martial artists stages a spectacular entertainment involving 100 drums and percussion instruments, nearly 500 lavish costumes, and artistry depicting seven Chinese dynasties. Twelve performances, details to be announced. (877) 750-4400, www.ticketmaster.com.

    Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.