HAWAII ISLAND – Kaumakaiwa and Kekuhi Kanaka`ole are both multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winners and are both respected educators in Hawaiian cultural practice and hula. Joining them both for this unique and intimate mother-son concert will be other members of the renowned Hilo-based `ohana.

The concerts are at The Palace Theatre in Hilo on Thursday September 19, at 7pm; the Aloha Theatre in Keanaliu on Friday September 20, at 7pm, and at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea on Saturday September 21, at 8pm.

Kaumakaiwa is a remarkable and riveting performer, who has developed into a phenomenal world music artist with an inventive talent that shines brightly, and a magnetic stage presence that is at once impressive, kolohe and entertaining. Kekuhi is equally charismatic on stage, possessing what one early reviewer described as “a certain ancient elegance”. Both performers are recognized as voices and leaders of the new Hawaiian generations since the “Renaissance” of the ‘60s and 70s. Edith Kanaka`ole was most certainly a leader in that renaissance, and her grand-daughter and great-grandson carry on her legacy and values.

Kaumakaiwa and Kekuhi are currently pursuing a studio recording project as a “duo”, with a projected digital release at end of October, and street product release before Christmas. These performances will give a flavor of that new CD – and will redefine contemporary Hawaiian music, demonstrating what it means to be Hawaiian today. Kaumaka`iwa, Kekuhi & `Ohana = chicken skin!

Thursday 9/19 at 7pm, at the Palace Theatre. Advance tickets are $35 general and $25 for seniors or students. Day of event tickets will be $45 for all. Tickets from www.brownpapertickets.com, CALL 934-7010 or stop at the Palace Box Office, Monday – Friday from 10am to 3pm. Doors and box office open at 6pm on day of concert.

Friday 9/20 at 7pm, at the Aloha Theatre. Advance tickets are $35 general and $25 for seniors or students. Day of event tickets will be $45 for all. Tickets from apachawaii.org, and Kiernan Music. Doors and box office open at 6pm on day.

Saturday 9/21 at 8pm, at Kahilu Theatre. Tickets range from $20, $35, $45 to $65, with discounts of up to 15% for members of the Kahilu Theatre. Memberships and tickets from www.kahilutheatre.org or call 885-6868, or stop at the Kahilu Theatre from 9am to 12noon. Doors open at 7pm on day of concert.