honolulu performing arts

Honolulu Performing ArtsAlthough most visitors do not come to Honolulu to attend a play or symphony concert, this destination offers both.

Hawai‘i Performing Arts Company presents a season of Broadway and off-Broadway plays at Mānoa Valley Theatre on E. Mānoa Road; Diamond Head Theatre, an established amateur group, does likewise at Makapu‘u and Alohea avenues near Diamond Head. The dance and drama departments of the University of Hawai‘i give productions in Kennedy Theatre on the East-West Center campus.

The Hawai‘i Opera Theatre performs in the concert hall at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center at Ward Avenue and King Street; the season runs October through April. The Neal S. Blaisdell Center's arena is the scene of concerts by pop stars. A bronze sculpture of Elvis Presley adorns the front of the arena, which hosted the music legend's 1973 concert that was aired in more than 40 countries. Films and a concert series are presented at the Honolulu Museum of Art. Movie houses are found throughout the city; some offer only Chinese and Japanese films.

The daily papers and the calendar section of the monthly magazine Honolulu carry comprehensive listings of cultural events, so pick one up at the beginning of your vacation.

Every week the Urasenke Foundation of Hawai‘i at 245 Saratoga Rd. presents public demonstrations of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony known as Chado, or the Way of Tea. Rooted in Zen Buddhism, the centuries-old ritual is an important part of Japanese culture. Visitors to the foundation watch a 15-minute video before witnessing this simple yet profound ceremony; admission is by donation and reservations are recommended. Phone (808) 923-3059. Make sure you ask your AAA travel agent about attending.