We have seen ‘Ulalena many times – its a great show and oozes with Maui culture and folklore – I highly recommend adults see this; kids are bored to death.

When “‘Ulalena” opened almost 11 years ago, its Cirque du Soleil-inspired way of blending old and new, using dazzling stagecraft and technology to convey ancient myths and Hawaiian history, was considered bold and original. With some of the island’s best dancers, singers, aerialists and musicians bringing mythical gods, historical figures and even forces of nature to life, the dazzling production casts a spell bigger than the sum of its parts.

Beginning with the ancient creation chant, Kumulipo, it is not just a history lesson, but a journey into the soul of Hawaiian culture. Economic conditions dictated a reduction in weekly performances, but other challenges, including new competition have just energized “ ‘Ulalena,” which will celebrate its 11th anniversary later this year with special bargains for kamaaina.

The new “ ‘Ulalena” is greener, cutting energy costs by 60 percent, and fresher, which you’ll notice on a return visit. Its local connections run deep. “When ‘‘Ulalena’ was created, the purpose was to have a tourist show which inspired and gave local people pride and honor of the local culture,” says General Manager Dennis Preussler. “We wanted a show kamaaina would attend when guests visited, not just drop off and pick up.We feel these awards help to validate ourmission and we are going to work hard in the future to improve andmaintain our show.” “It just might be the perfect time to rediscover this Maui favorite,” says Maui Scene theater columnist Sky Barnhart—“and maybe even be blown away.”

First Place:
‘Ulalena
Maui Theatre, Old Lahaina Center
Lahaina, Maui
808-661-9913
ulalena.com

Second Place:
Maui Onstage
Historic Iao Theater
Wailuku, Maui
808-244-8680
Third Place:
Cirque Polynesia
Hyatt Regency Maui
Ka’anapali, Maui
808- 667-4540