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Art & Culture on the Islands
Guess which state has its own language, music and dance? As much as anything,
it's perpetuating these unique qualities that make Hawaii such an appealing and
intriguing destination to the rest of the world. Art and culture is everywhere
and anywhere in Hawaii. This cosmopolitan community of islands continually
celebrates its Polynesian heritage and multi-ethnic diversity. Yet, residents
and visitors alike can also enjoy a world-class symphony, opera, live theatre,
and seemingly countless cultural events, particularly during the annual
statewide Aloha Festivals in September.
Fine art and the hand-crafted arts of the islands are found in museums,
galleries, hotel lobbies, and parks. Music-lovers can always find a rich
selection of live entertainment to choose from in theaters, malls, showrooms,
and restaurants. Performing arts theaters abound statewide, playing host to
productions from around the world and showcasing local artists. Honolulu's
Diamond Head Theater is America 's third oldest community theater. The
venerable playhouse celebrated its 90th birthday in 2005 with a season of
Broadway-quality shows.
But no elements of Hawaii are more closely identified with its cultural
traditions than the melodic Hawaiian music and beautiful dance of hula. Local
musical artists continue to attract new fans nationwide, as they meld together
the musical traditions of yesterday with the contemporary songs of today. Just
how far has Hawaiian music come? It's now a category for the Grammy Awards.
Hula, with its graceful storytelling told through hands and hips, is a favorite
of everyone. Performances and competitions take place throughout the year,
highlighted by the world's largest and most prestigious hula event: The Merrie
Monarch Festival. Staged in the city of Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island, the
festival is literally three days and nights of the very best that hula has to
offer, with hula halau (schools) from all islands performing
everything from the most traditional to the most modern of dances.
To experience the full impact of Hawaii 's artistic and cultural splendor,
visit during the Hawaii Arts Season, which runs from late February to mid-May
and offers more than 100 events on each of the major islands. Art and culture
is just one more great reason to come experience the "Islands of Aloha."
Check out our Hawaii Events page for
specific dates of certain art & cultural events.
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