Wednesday, June 22, 2011

OLD LAHAINA LUAU W/ TRIBUTE TO AKONI


The Old Lahaina Luau is by far the most authentic luau on the island of Maui. Of the several times I’ve had the fortune to visit this wonderful place, the service here has never been any less than superior. And this past Saturday night, when we went, nothing changed.

The Friends of Moku’ula is a non profit organization that is currently aiming to restore the island of Moku’ula. This sacred island is believed to be between 14 – 17 acres and was once the home of King Kamehameha the Great soon after he united the islands as one. The island of Moku’ula, along with the ponds of Mokuhinia is also considered to be one of the most historic sites in all of Hawaii. After many centuries of sheltering the monarchy of Hawaii, the island of Moku’ula was eventually filled in to make way for what is now Malu’ulu’olele Park. This park is currently home to a parking lot, baseball field, basketball court, and tennis court.

Akoni Akana played a very instrumental part in resurrecting the memories and spirits of this once monumental location. With will and determination, Akoni helped make these dreams a reality by getting a grant to start The Friends of Moku’ula. Since 1997, the Friends of Moku’ula have been working tirelessly to fulfill Akoni’s vision. Unfortunately, Akoni will never be able to see his dream come to fruition for he passed in early April. On the upside though, he’ll forever be engrained on Moku’ula. On June 4th, The Friends of Moku’ula along with the folks at the Old Lahaina Luau held a tribute for Akoni. Over time, I learned about whom Akoni was and what Akoni did to help cultivate the Hawaiian culture, but I had no idea he was as pivotal as he was.

I was invited to the tribute for dual purposes. On one hand, I was going to be a photographer and videographer for the luau, yet I was still able to be a guest at the event. We all arrived early to help set up and decorate the venue. My mom, who is Anabelle’s boss, coordinated on where everything will be, who’ll be watching which booth, and how the program will work. Anabelle, who is my mom’s right hand man, did just about everything else; she filled in the minute details on how the night will happen and go on without a hitch. I helped set up a few of the floral displays for the tables and the stage. I’ve had a closet interest in flowers so it was nice being able to hang out with a florist and see them in action from beginning to end. After 4 hours of non stop setting up, Anabelle and I made our way to get ready for the luau in a hotel room my mom booked. After a quick 45 minute shower, shave, and beautifying session, we were on our way back to the venue.

Getting there, the lines of people extended around the corner. Even with droves of people, each and every person was welcomed with Aloha by the staff of the Old Lahaina Luau. Everyone was seated quickly and accordingly. With the sun still beaming brightly, a lot of us made our way to the bar. Tropical drink after tropical drink was ordered. There was an amalgam of color in every cup which was synonymous with oceans, sunsets, and the tropics. I noticed a ton of guests at the silent auction table looking for their next prized possession. There was just about everything you’d want there and up for grabs. After getting our drinks, I continued my people watching as everyone continued to get seated.

As the sun started setting, the staff of Old Lahaina Luau welcomed us and thanked us for joining them for the beginnings of a lovely evening. They gave a quick homage to the life, the times, and the contributions of one Akoni Akana. The audience joined the staff for a prayer and the festivities were now underway. One by one, local dignitaries were called up on stage to share their fondest moments and memories of and with Akoni. In house were many Council members, the Mayor’s assistant, State Representatives, along with many other notable folks in on Maui. As they spoke, one by one, our tables were now called for dinner, which was buffet style. As in all luaus, every dish was on point and super ono (delicious). The food at the Old Lahaina Luau has been featured on The Discovery Channel, The TV Food Network, and on The Travel Channel. And yes, you should at least try poi once. It’s a far cry from the worst thing you’ve probably put in your mouth; trust me.

The entertainment highlight of the evening was a performance by one of the greatest Hawaiian performers, Keali’i Reichel. He had brought in 3 of his hula dancers from his halau (group), Halau Kealaokamaile. Their performance summed up in one word would be: UNBELIEVABLE. There were cell phones in the air recording, cameras were flashing, video cameras were rolling, and everyone was blocking everyone else’s view to get their prized shot. After a quick 25 minute performance, Keali’i Reichel exited stage left to a standing ovation.

As the show carried on, we were shown a 20 or so minute video tribute honoring Akoni. I looked around the audience and there were many tears falling; many memories were being rekindled. I felt that if you didn’t know who Akoni was throughout the evening, by the end of this video, you will. The staff of The Friends of Moku’ula did a wonderful job with the video. I really believe for many people it was a stroll down memory lane.

The rest of the performance by the Old Lahaina Luau was as it’s always been, perfect. As you watch the performers, you can immediately tell they have a great rapport with one another. In their dancing, you can see the chemistry everyone has. It’s no surprise that this event has won numerous awards and is considered one of the must do things when in Maui. The Old Lahaina Luau cuts no corners when it comes to service and they treat each and every visitor like family. The show was great, the service was second to none, the food was ono, and the show was absolutely great. I’m trying not to mention too much when it comes to the show because I strongly urge everyone to take a trip into ancient Hawaii by attending this show.

The Friends of Moku’ula did a spectacular job in organizing the event. The tribute to Akoni made him the new standard. The folks at the Old Lahaina Luau once again welcomed us into their home with open arms as they always do. Their hula performance was legendary. The performance by Keali’i Reichel was a real treat. You can tell that he’s proudly carrying the torch of Hawaiian music into the future for generations to come. The entire evening was an epic success. And it’s an evening I was proud to be a part of and is one I’ll never forget.


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