Social Encore: Celebrating girl power

(NOTE: This post has been corrected. Click here.)

BY JERMEL-LYNN QUILLOPO / Special to the Star-Advertiser

There are only a handful of females with regular DJ gigs in Honolulu. Riana “DJ Tittahbyte” Stellburg is one of those ladies, and she’ll be part of the lineup with a number of Hawaii hip-hop acts at Crossroads at Hawaiian Brian’s on July 31.

JENI SUK » Where: Crossroads at Hawaiian Brian’s, 1680 Kapiolani Blvd. » When: 7 p.m. July 31 » Cost: $25 general admission ($20 presale and $40 VIP meet-and-greet tickets available); all ages » Info: abouthegoods.com

Stellburg’s fascination with music started at very young age when she was exposed to different genres. She started writing down her opinions, sharing them online via her social networks. Instead of just being behind the scenes, however, she wanted to become more involved.

“One day Robin (Taclas, aka DJ Revise) told me I should just learn how to mix and the rest is history,” she said.

Since then, Stellburg has established residencies at events like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at The Safehouse, First Fridays at Nextdoor and Dash Gastropub. With her involvement in Hawaii’s hip-hop scene, she thought it was essential to inspire other local artists here.

Green Leaf Check started as a podcast that Jonathan “DJ Cozy” Sucaldito started over a year ago. Local DJs, producers and MCs started to use it as an outlet to share their opinions and what they were interested in.

Sucaldito then asked Stellburg to join the podcast as a resident DJ. She was inspired to bring another element to the podcast after watching “Boiler Room,” a YouTube show that showcases the world’s underground hip-hop scene.

“They record the producers and DJ sets as if you are there standing in front of them watching,” Stellburg said. “The best part is that there are no limits or any boundaries to what the artists could play.”

Wanting a similar vibe for Hawaii, she talked it over with Cozy. They were on the same page and thought it would be a great opportunity for Hawaii to experience.

“One great example is producer Mr. Carmack, who is now with Mad Decent (an EDC artist on Diplo’s record label) and is now based out of California. If it wasn’t for the Lightsleepers’ annual Beatroot event two years back, I wouldn’t have known about him,” she said. “That’s exactly the kind of event we need more of, to focus on bringing up and giving opportunities to these local artists, producers and DJs.”

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2013

Riana Stellburg, aka DJ Tittahbyte.

Stellburg said future events will also showcase producers and DJs from the mainland. This weekend’s show will be a test-run of sorts, kicking off with the return of YouTube sensation Jeni Suk, whose performances include vocals, a keyboard, a guitar and looper/processor. She has over 280,000 YouTube subscribers and her videos have appeared on websites such as World Star Hip-Hop and Reddit.

Stellburg said she hopes events like these inspire people to support Hawaii’s music scene as well as help cultivate a network for artists. For local artists, she wants the event to give newcomers encouragement to release their music as well challenge artists to push the creative envelope. In order to help inspire creativity, a Kickstarter fundraiser will soon launch to help create music workshops with Green Leaf Check’s featured artists, giving Hawaii artists a chance to collaborate and learn from some of the new and upcoming artists across the nation.

“What I really want are people to step out of their comfort zone and (support) Green Leaf Check,” she said. “Our whole mission is to expose the local artists’ music and hopefully gain them some new fans.

“I know that there are people out there in Hawaii looking for this kind of event and we’re here to put it on for them.”

The monthly event will bring down artists such as Aaron “Mr.Carmack” Carmack, Soulection’s Francis “Esta” Estaban and Samantha “So Super Sam” Duenas alongside Green Leaf Check residents DJ Cozy, DJ Kowai Kowai and Stellburg.

CORRECTION: The July 31 concert featuring Jeni Suk is not an official Green Leaf Check event. The show is a preview of the type of events Green Leaf Check aims to produce in the future.
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Jermel-Lynn Quillopo is a multi-faceted, energetic individual with experience in both print and broadcast journalism. “Social Encore” aims to tell diverse stories about Hawaii’s food, events and people; share your tips with Jermel via email or follow her on Twitter.

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To Do! Shaggy, Magic!, Courtney Love

(Courtesy Shaggy)

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, JULY 25-26

The Mayjah Rayjah returns with headliners Shaggy, pictured, and JBoog. Other acts in the jam-packed Hawaiian/reggae festival include Common Kings, Rebel Souljahz and Anuhea.

4 p.m. / Waikiki Shell / $29-$120 / ticketmaster.com, 866-448-7849

(Courtesy The Head and the Heart)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 30

Indie folk-rock band The Head and the Heart makes its Hawaii debut at The Republik. Last year the six-member Seattle group released its second album, “Let’s Be Still,” which debuted at No. 10 on the Billboard 200.

8 p.m. / The Republik / $25 / flavorus.com, 855-235-2867

(Courtesy Chapman Baehler)

SUNDAY, AUG. 3

With its hit “Rude” taking over the summer airwaves, Canadian reggae group Magic! makes a stop at Wet’n'Wild Hawaii, with hip-hop sensation Kat Dahlia (“Crazy”). Concertgoers will also have access to all water park rides.

3 p.m. (rides open at 10 a.m.) / Wet’n'Wild Hawaii / $35 / flavorus.com, 855-235-2867

(Associated Press)

TUESDAY, AUG. 26

If Kurt Cobain was the leader of the grunge movement, Courtney Love was its first lady. The former Hole frontwoman rocks The Republik, having recently released the solo single “You Know My Name.”

8 p.m. / The Republik / $35 / flavorus.com, 855-235-2867

(Courtesy SOJA)

SATURDAY, AUG. 30

D.C. reggae band SOJA brings its positive and uplifting sounds to the Waikiki Shell, with special guests Murs, Michael Franti and Spearhead, to round out a four-island tour.

6 p.m. / Waikiki Shell / $39.50, $44.50, $79.50 / ticketmaster.com, 866-448-7849

TICKER

» Grammy Award-winning country/Christian music band Diamond Rio performs at The Republik on Sat., Aug. 9; 7:30 p.m.; $29.50; flavorus.com, 855-235-2867

» Join Makana, Brother Noland and others at the Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival, Sun., Aug. 17 from noon to 6 p.m. at Kapiolani Park; Free; slackkeyfestival.com

Stage: Hawaii Shakespeare Fest, ‘Suessical, Jr.’

OPENING WEEKEND OF JULY 18

Hawaii Shakespeare Festival: Having completed all 38 of William Shakespeare’s plays in its first 12 seasons, the festival features classics from other playwrights, apocrypha and experimental work for its 13th season: “She Stoops to Conquer,” by Oliver Goldsmith, Friday-July 27; “Edward III,” by Shakespeare and Thomas Kyd, Aug. 8-17; and an all-female, three-play repertory of “King Lear,” “Taming of the Shrew” and “Much Ado About Nothing,” Aug. 21-31, at The ARTS at Marks Garage. $10-$20. 800-838-3006, http://hawaiishakes.org

“Peter Pan”: Hawai‘i Education of the Arts youths present J.M. Barrie’s classic story about the magical adventures of a boy who never grew up. Friday-July 26, Paliku Theatre. Shows: 7 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays and 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays. $10-$20. 387-4355, http://showtix4u.com, http://heartshawaii.org

“Spamalot”: The Tony-winning musical comedy “lovingly ripped off from” the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” including spoofs of well-known Broadway musicals, 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday and 8 p.m. Thursday, Diamond Head Theatre. Extended through Aug. 10. $15-$35. 733-0274, http://diamondheadtheatre.com

Kala-Bash: Kumu Kahua Theatre’s gala fundraiser features a tribute to founding theater board member Dennis Carroll, entertainment, food and drink stations, 5-9 p.m. Saturday at the theater. $50. 536-4441, http://kumukahua.org

“Seussical, Jr.”: Punahou Summer School’s Musical Theatre program pre­­­sents the Broadway hit musical that brings to life many of Dr. Seuss’ beloved characters, 1:30 p.m. Tuesday and 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dillingham Hall, Punahou School. Free. http://www.punahou.edu

“Flowers of Hawai‘i”: Lee Cata­luna’s collection of revealing vignettes about relationships between Hawaii family members, friends and lovers returns Thursday-Aug. 3 to Kumu Kahua Theatre. Shows: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. $15-$30. 536-4441, http://kumukahua.org

“Hairspray”: Ohana Arts Summer Festival and School presents the musical about a teenage girl determined to defy the odds and break down barriers of body image and racism, 7:30 p.m. Thursday-July 26 and 2 p.m. July 26, Mamiya Theatre. $10-$15. http://showtix4u.com

CLOSING THIS WEEK

“Honu by the Sea”: Veteran music producer Johnson Enos’ colorful family-friendly musical about a Waikiki beachboy, his ocean pals and their environmental plight, 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thursday, Monarch Ballroom, Royal Hawaiian Hotel. $15-$20. 554-2320, http://honubythesea.com

NOW PLAYING

“Resistance!”: Richard C. Goodman’s historic drama about William Parker, a former slave who resisted and helped to overturn the Fugitive Slave Act in 19th-century Pennsylvania, makes its Hawaii premiere via The Actors’ Group; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through Aug. 3, Brad Powell Theatre. $12-$20. 722-6941, http://taghawaii.net

“Smokey Joe’s Cafe”: Broadway’s Tony-nominated jukebox musical paying homage to legendary Top 40 songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, whose hits include “Hound Dog,” “Stand by Me” and “Love Potion No. 9”; extended through Aug. 3 at Manoa Valley Theatre. Tickets may be available Wednesday, July 25, 30, 31 and Aug. 1-3. $20-$39. 988-6131, http://manoavalley­theatre.com

“The Living Earth”: The contemporary dance theater IONA pre­sents online its 2009 production about the planet’s struggles, weaving spirituality with theatrics and dance. The second E Season offering is presented in 10 five-minute videos at http://iona360.com.

COMING UP

Hawaii’s Fourth Golden Age Variety Show: Fundraiser lunch show by the seniors of Moiliili Community Center’s chair exercise class featuring rhythm and life chair exercises, Japanese dancing, line dancing, performers from Japan, singing, skits and more, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 27, Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom. $45 (includes dim sum lunch). 735-1323

“Peter Pan”: Ballet presented by Ballet Hawaii, Aug. 8-10, Blaisdell Concert Hall. $35-$99; 866-448-7849, http://ticketmaster.com

Stars’ Night Out Theatre Celebration and 2013-14 Po‘okela Awards: The Hawai‘i State Theatre Council’s annual dinner and awards ceremony, hosted by Keoki Kerr and Jodi Leong and featuring performances by local theater groups, 7-10 p.m. Aug. 11 at Koolau Ballrooms. Cocktail hour featuring live music by Don Conover and singers’ open mic 6 p.m. Tickets: $55.85. http://pookela.eventbrite.com

“A Bollywood Robin Hood”: Hono­lulu Theatre for Youth kicks off its 60th season with an original musical mash-up of its favorite outlaw and modern Indian glitz, Aug. 15-Oct. 3, Tenney Theatre. $10-$20. For ages 5+. 839-9885, http://hty­web.org

“Shoyu on Rice”: Comedy by Scot Izuka makes its world premiere as the season opener at Kumu Kahua Theatre Aug. 21-Sept. 21 . Culture, identity and peer pressure issues arise as a substitute teacher from Kansas takes over class at a Catholic all-boys high school in mid-1980s Hawaii. $5-$20. 536-4441, http://kumukahua.org

“The Addams Family”: Broadway musical comedy about the ghoulish American family, based on the original 1930s cartoon characters by Charles Addams, Sept. 4-21, Manoa Valley Theatre. $20-$39. 988-6131, http://manoavalley­theatre.com

“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”: The Actors’ Group presents Christopher Durang’s Chekhovian-
themed comedy about two homebound, middle-age siblings, their movie-star sister and her boy toy. Winner of the 2013 Tony Award for Best Play; Sept. 12-Oct. 5, Brad Powell Theatre. $12-$20. 722-6941, http://taghawaii.net

“Eddie Wen’ Go, The Story of the Upside-Down Canoe”: Hawaii Theatre Center and the University of Hawaii’s Theatre for Young Audiences Department bring to the stage former Hokule‘a crew member Marion Lyman-Mersereau’s children’s book recounting the heroic efforts of crew member Eddie Aikau when the Polynesian voyaging canoe capsized, Sept. 19-20, Hawaii Theatre. $5-$10; free for keiki under age 4. 528-0506, http://hawaiitheatre.com. (School matinees Sept. 16-19; $5 per student. Call 791-1310 for more information.)

“Mary Poppins”: The Broadway musical based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film opens Diamond Head Theatre’s 100th-anniversary season, Sept. 26-Oct. 12. $15-$50. (Season tickets for six plays, $66-$228.) http://diamondheadtheatre.com, 733-0274

“Ambrosia”: IONA’s 2014 Gala: Annual fundraiser features IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre entertainment, a paired wine dinner under the stars, dancing, cocktails, appetizers and a silent auction, 6 p.m. Oct. 11, Sheraton Waikiki Helumoa pool. Tables for 10: $2,000-$10,000. http://iona360.com

“Ku A Mo‘o”: Honolulu Theatre for Youth continues its 60th season with this play about the skin-changing lizard guardians of old Hawaii, created in collaboration with Bishop Museum staff, Oct. 17-Nov. 8, Tenney Theatre. $10-$20. For ages 8+. 839-9885, http://hty­web.org

AUDITIONS

“Macbeth”: The Hawaii Shakespeare Festival seeks actors for paid positions in a production to tour intermediate and high schools Oct. 13-Nov. 7. Auditions 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Marks Garage. More information: http://hawaii­shakes.org

2014-15 Hawaii Theatre Young Actors Ensemble: Hawaii Theatre Center auditions 4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday and Aug. 4 for its pre-professional acting program open to all Oahu high school students. Interviews also being scheduled for the Technical Theatre Apprenticeship program for teens ages 13-19 and the Intermediate Ensembles for middle school students age 10-12. Registration and more information: 791-1397, edenlee­murray@hawaii-theatre.com

“Closer Than Ever”: Manoa Valley Theatre and guest director Kip Wilborn hold auditions 7 p.m. July 28 for a November production of the off-Broadway musical revue. More information: 988-6131, http://manoavalley­theatre.com

“Mary Poppins”: Diamond Head Theatre auditions for a September-October production of the Broadway musical 7 p.m. Aug. 8 and 2 p.m. Aug. 9-10. More information at: http://diamondheadtheatre.com/auditions

“Peter Pan”: Diamond in the Rough Productions seeks men, women and children for a fall production of the Disney musical. Auditions 7:30 p.m. Aug. 15 and 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16 at Applause! Performance Academy in Wahiawa. Prepare to sing, dance and act; bring sheet music in your key or a karaoke (music minus one) track and perform 16 to 24 bars of a Broadway or Disney song that best shows off your voice. 622-1272, http://applauseperformanceacademy.com

Oahu Choral Society: Auditions by appointment 6-8 p.m. Aug. 25 at St. Andrew’s Cathedral for new singers. More information and application form at: http://oahuchoral.org/singers-requirements.html. 392-0382, info@oahuchoral.org

Na Leo Lani Chorus: A cappella singers also known as the Sweet Adelines welcome female singers who enjoy four-part barbershop harmony. Rehearsals 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Saint Francis School. 429-9901, 839-3443, http://sweetadelines­hawaii.org

Hawai‘i Vocal Arts Ensemble: Seeking experienced singers with good tone and music-reading skills. Appointments: email maestrotim1@gmail.com. http://hawaiivocalarts.org

Honolulu Boy Choir: Auditions for boys age 8-12 by appointment. No experience needed; membership is free. 596-7464, http://honoluluboychoir.org
———
Send stage listings to tgif@staradvertiser.com.

Movies: ‘Wish I Was Here,’ ‘Sex Tape’

From right, Zach Braff, Joey King and Pierce Gagnon are a family handling big changes in “Wish I Was Here.” (Courtesy Focus Films)

Wide-release film synopses from the Los Angeles Times.

OPENS FRIDAY, JULY 18

‘The Grand Seduction’
To secure a lucrative business contract, the townsfolk of a Newfoundland fishing village band together to woo a big-city doctor there on a trial residence into sticking around. With Brendan Gleeson, Taylor Kitsch and Liane Balaban. Written by Michael Dowse and Ken Scott. Directed by Don McKellar. (PG-13, 1:55) At Kahala 8

‘Persecuted’
A TV preacher is ruined by a sinister government plot. With ex-GOP senator Fred Dalton Thompson and Fox News personality Gretchen Carlson. Written and directed by Daniel Lusko. (PG-13, 2:33) At Dole Cannery Stadium 18, Kapolei and Pearl Highlands Stadium 12

‘Planes: Fire & Rescue’
In this animated movie set in a world of anthropomorphic aircraft, a famous air racer learns that his engine is damaged and shifts gears into the world of aerial firefighting. With the voices of Dane Cook and Julie Bowen. Written by Bobs Gannaway and Jeffrey M. Howard. Directed by Gannaway. (PG, 1:23)

‘The Purge: Anarchy’
A new group of individuals fights to survive the annual night on which all crime is legal for 12 hours in this sequel to the 2013 film “The Purge.” With Frank Grillo, Zach Gilford and Kiele Sanchez. Written and directed by James DeMonaco. (R, 1:43)

Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel mistakenly upload a video online in “Sex Tape.” (Courtesy Sony Pictures)

‘Sex Tape’
To spice up their love life, a couple (Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel) of 10 years make a marathon sex tape and then scramble to erase it from existence after they accidentally send it to friends and family members. With Rob Corddry and Ellie Kemper. Written by Segel, Kate Angelo and Nicholas Stoller. Directed by Jake Kasdan. (R, 1:35)

‘Wish I Was Here’
When his ailing father (Mandy Patinkin) takes a turn for the worse, a struggling 30-something actor (Zach Braff) struggling to support his family must make big changes in the family’s lives. With Kate Hudson and Josh Gad. Written by Zach Braff and Adam Braff. Directed by Zach Braff. (R, 1:50) At Ward Stadium

NOW PLAYING

’22 Jump Street’
Having conducted a successful narcotics operation posing as high school students, two undercover cops (Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum) try to crack a new case at the local college. With Peter Stormare. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. (R, 1:51)

‘America: Imagine the World Without Her’
Dinesh D’Souza’s conservative exploration of America’s “culture of shame” about its history. (PG-13, 1:30) At Dole Cannery Stadium 18

‘Begin Again’
Reeling from a breakup with her musical partner and longtime boyfriend (Adam Levine), a songwriter (Keira Knightley) in New York City has a chance encounter with a disgraced record label exec (Mark Ruffalo) that blossoms into something more. With Hailee Steinfeld. Written and directed by John Carney. (R, 1:44)

‘Blended’
After a disastrous blind date, two single parents (Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore) hope to never see each other again but end up stuck on the same family vacation with their respective children. With Kevin Nealon and Terry Crews. Written by Ivan Menchell and Clare Sera. Directed by Frank Coraci. (PG-13, 1:57) At Water Gardens Keolu 4

‘Chef’
Having quit his job at a prominent restaurant over refusing to compromise his creative integrity, a chef teams with his co-worker and son to start a food truck. With Jon Favreau, Sofia Vergara and John Leguizamo. Written and directed by Favreau. (Not rated, 1:55) At Kahala 8 and Koko Marina

‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’
A growing nation of genetically evolved apes is threatened by a band of human survivors of a devastating virus unleashed a decade earlier in this sequel to the 2011 film “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” With Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman and Keri Russell. Directed by Matt Reeves. (PG-13, 2:10)

‘Deliver Us From Evil’
A New York police officer (Eric Bana) joins forces with an unconventional priest (Edgar Ramirez) to investigate a series of disturbing and inexplicable crimes. With Olivia Munn. Directed by Scott Derrickson. (R, 1:37)

‘Earth to Echo’
After a construction project begins in their neighborhood, three boys (Teo Halm, Brian “Astro” Bradley and Reese Hartwig) start to receive strange coded messages on their cellphones, and their investigation brings them into contact with an extraterrestrial who needs their help. Directed by Dave Green. (PG, 1:22)

‘Edge of Tomorrow’
During an alien invasion in the near future, an inexperienced soldier (Tom Cruise) is dropped into battle and promptly killed, only to wake up in a time loop and relive the battle over and over again, inching closer to victory each time. With Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton and Brendan Gleeson. Directed by Doug Liman. In 3-D and Imax. (PG-13, 1:53) At Dole Cannery Stadium 18, Ward Stadium and Water Gardens Keolu 4

‘The Fault in Our Stars’
Two teenagers (Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort) meet and fall in love at a cancer support group in this adaptation of the novel by John Green. With Laura Dern and Sam Trammell. Directed by Josh Boone. (PG-13, 2:05) At Water Gardens Keolu 4

‘How to Train Your Dragon 2′
A young Viking and his faithful dragon must protect both of their kinds from a power-hungry conqueror in this sequel to the 2010 animated film. With the voices of Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Kit Harington and Cate Blanchett. In 3-D. (PG, 1:45)

‘Jersey Boys’
Four young men (John Lloyd Young, Erich Bergen, Michael Lomenda and Vincent Piazza) from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey come together to form the ’60s rock group the Four Seasons in this adaptation of the Tony-winning musical. Directed by Clint Eastwood. (R, 2:14) At Kahala 8

‘Maleficent’
A retelling of the classic “Sleeping Beauty” tale from the perspective of the villainess Maleficent, who suffered a betrayal that turned her once pure heart to stone. With Angelina Jolie, Sharlto Copley, Elle Fanning and Sam Riley. Written by Linda Woolverton. Directed by Robert Stromberg. In 3-D and Imax. (PG, 1:37)

‘My Illegal Wife’ Not reviewed
A single mother (Pokwang) wants to find a father for her children. In Filipino with English subtitles. At Pearlridge West

‘Rio 2′
Traveling from Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon rain forest, a family of birds gets acquainted with the wild in this animated sequel to the 2011 film “Rio.” With the voices of Anne Hathaway, Jesse Eisenberg, Jemaine Clement and Tracy Morgan. (G, 1:41) At Water Gardens Keolu 4

‘Snowpiercer’
Korean auteur Bong Joon-ho packs all of his apocalyptic angst inside an unforgettable “Snowpiercer.” Using a great cast, a gripping idea and a gorgeously grimy retro aesthetic, Bong keeps this eerie examination of the train wreck of humanity racing along. Both the material and the messengers — Chris Evans, John Hurt, Ed Harris and Tilda Swinton lead a cast top-heavy with international talent — lend a kind of gravitas to what might otherwise have been mindless action fare. (R, 2:06) At Kahala 8 and Ko’olau Stadium 10

‘Tammy’
After wrecking her car, getting fired from her thankless fast-food job and catching her husband cheating, a small-town woman (Melissa McCarthy) sets out on a trip to Niagara Falls with her hard-drinking grandmother (Susan Sarandon). With Allison Janney and Gary Cole. Written by McCarthy and Ben Falcone. Directed by Falcone. (R, 1:57)

‘Think Like a Man Too’
A group of couples gathers for a wedding in Las Vegas, but the plans for a romantic weekend go awry in this sequel to the 2012 movie “Think Like a Man.” With Michael Ealy, Kevin Hart, Meagan Good and Taraji P. Henson. Directed by Tim Story. (PG-13, 1:45) At Kapolei and Water Gardens Keolu 4

‘Third Person’
The latest interlocking puzzle from Paul Haggis is about love, but it’s not a soft and fuzzy sort of love. Haggis uses a double-edged sword — and a relatively blunt one at that — to hack away at it. There are three theaters of operation: the entanglement between Liam Neeson and Olivia Wilde’s characters unfolding in Paris; Adrien Brody and Moran Atias’ mismatched pair sparring in Rome; and Mila Kunis and James Franco battling it out in New York City. The actors bring their A-games, but ultimately the film’s pieces remain scattered, its puzzle unfinished, its stories half-told. (R, 2:16) At Dole Cannery Stadium 18 and Kahala 8

‘Transformers: Age of Extinction’
Three years after an epic battle forced the shape-shifting robots known as Transformers into hiding, a garage inventor (Mark Wahlberg) makes a startling discovery and gets caught up in a battle for the fate of Earth. With Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer and Sophia Miles. Directed by Michael Bay. In 3-D and Imax. (PG-13, 2:45)

‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’
The mutant superheroes known as the X-Men join forces with their younger selves from the past to change a major historic event in hopes of saving the future. With Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jennifer Lawrence. Written by Simon Kinberg. Directed by Bryan Singer. In 3-D. (PG-13, 2:10) At Dole Cannery Stadium 18

SPECIAL

Anime in Cinema: ‘K: Missing Kings’
Individuals with mysterious powers and their own personal clans battle one another in this anime film based on the TV series “K.” With the voices of Daisuke Namikawa, Daisuke Ono and Mikako Komatsu. Written by GoRA. Directed by Shingo Suzuki. In Japanese with English subtitles. Noon Saturday and 7 p.m. Monday at Ward Stadium 16, $15

‘Glenn Beck’s We Will Not Conform’
Glenn Beck, along with political columnist Michelle Malkin, activist David Barton, Whitney Neal from FreedomWorks and others, will share his opposition to the Common Core education standards. 8 p.m. Tuesday and rebroadcast at 7:30 p.m. July 29 at Dole Cannery Stadium 18, $18

Hana Hou Picture Show: ‘Batman’
Tim Burton’s 1989 film with Michael Keaton as the Caped Crusader, Jack Nicholson as the Joker and Kim Basinger as Vicki Vale. 7 and 10 p.m. Wednesday at Ward Stadium 16, $10

Surfing, music and filmmaking are combined in Albert Falzon’s surf homage, “Spirit of Akasha.” (Courtesy Albert Falzon)

ARTHOUSE

DORIS DUKE THEATRE
Honolulu Museum of Art
900 S. Beretania St.
(808) 532-8768
honolulumuseum.org
$10, $8 members.

Seventh Annual Honolulu Surf Film Festival
Screenings are $10, $8 for members. Runs through July 31. For complete listing of movies and showtimes, visit goo.gl/z5lPZ0.

‘OUT in the Line-up’
Australian surfers David Wakefield and Thomas Castets are inspired by tales of hope, self-empowerment and transformation as they journey through Australia, Hawaii, California, Mexico and the Galapagos Islands to explore the taboo topic of homosexuality in the world of surfing. Directed by Ian W. Thomson. (2014, Australia, 1:09)
1 p.m. Friday

Screens with:

» ‘Flux: Redefining Women’s Surfing’
Although surfing can be seen as an expression of freedom for women around the world, media portrayals and a growing culture of sexualization can be threats. Directed by Mia Montanile, Sarah Lee and Chad King. (2014, 0:17)
» ‘Easkey Britton: Surf in Iran’
Marion Poizeau directs this story of Irish big-wave surfer Easkey Britton, who was the first woman to surf off the coast of Iran in 2013. Directed by Marion Poizeau. (2013, France/Ireland, 0:05)

‘Stephanie in the Water’
On a day off from high school, Stephanie Gilmore won her first surfing world championship at age 17. She went on to claim consecutive world titles over the next four years, but a violent turn of events put an abrupt end to her winning streak. (2013, U.S./Puerto Rico/Micronesia/Australia, 1:10)
7:30 p.m. Friday

Screens with:

» ‘Hope and Hope More’
Seven women celebrate the life of soul surfer Zeuf Hesson and take a journey to Mexico for surf, food, good times and relaxation. (2013, 0:07)
» ‘Women Who Run With the Tides’
This short film shines a spotlight on older women in the surfing world and showcases three surfers, ranging in age from 50 to 64, who hail from Australia. (2013, Australia, 0:18)
» ‘Surfing Possibility: The Surfer Girls of India’
Meet India’s first female surfer, Ishita Malaviya. (2013, 0:05)

‘XOXO’
Brent Deal and Chris Aguilar directed this showcase for five athletes — Kelly Potts, Talia De Coite, Paige Alms, Tehani Gangini and Ashley Baster — who give back to their Maui community by starting a surf camp for young girls. (2014, 0:36)
1 p.m. Saturday

Screens with:

» ‘Burra Jurra’
An innovative surf program promotes social change by reconnecting indigenous youths with the ocean. Pro surfers and coaches help inspire this new generation to learn about the Bundjalung culture and its people through dance, stories and art. (2014, Australia, 0:44)
» ‘Learning to Float’
At age 12 a surfing trip forever changed the life of 280-pound Giovanni Douresseau. The minute he caught his first wave, he was overcome with awe. With the help of a mentor, he turned his life around and lost 100 pounds in 10 years. He aims to pass on this same “gift” of surfing to underprivileged kids. (2013, 0:19)
» ‘Sunnydale Kids’
A group of underprivileged children living in San Francisco’s largest housing project are treated to a rare (and, for some, first) day at the beach in an outing organized by Ian Glover, owner of Big Dog Surf Camp, and Tim Gras of Gras Surfboards. (2013, 0:04)
» ‘Duct Tape Surfing’
Pascale’s dreams of surfing were crushed 18 years ago, but a family friend helps her relive her dream of becoming a surfer with the aid of duct tape. (2014, 0:04)

‘Morning of the Earth’
Albert Faizon directs one of the most influential surf films of all time, complete with stunning cinematography and a great soundtrack, showcasing pioneer surfers Michael Peterson, Terry Fitzgerald and Nat Young in their quest for “the ultimate untouched surftopia” across Australia’s Northeast coast, Bali and Hawaii. (1972, Australia, 1:17)
4 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 p.m. Sunday

Screens with:

» ‘FV25′
A group of surfers journeys to the Outer Hebrides and Norway in search of cold-water surfing adventures over an eight-month period. (2014, U.K., 0:09)

‘Spirit of Akasha’
This stunning homage to “Morning of the Earth” combines surfing, music and filmmaking and features pro surfers Mick Fanning, Stephanie Gilmore, Tom Curren, Kelly Slater and Beau Young alongside a handful of up-and-coming soul surfers. (2014, Australia, 1:30)
7:30 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday

Screens with:

» ‘Coming Up for Air’
Cornish surfer Matt Smith narrates this Mickey Smith-directed film about the intensity and nature of cold-water surfing off the Irish coast. (2014, U.K., 0:05)

‘New Wave Surf Shots’
Features the following shorts: “Summer Salad,” directed by Hayley Gordon; “Groove Move,” directed by Jack Coleman; “Daughter,” directed by Tin Ojeda; “Sight/Sound,” directed by Mikey DeTemple; and “Slow Dance,” directed by Dane Reynolds.
7:30 p.m. Monday

‘Mana’
Follow 10 Southern California artists who share a love for art, nature and surfing as they prepare for a collective exhibition in Kailua-Kona. Directed by Eric Minh Swenson. (2014, 1:30)
1 p.m. Tuesday

East Coast double feature:
» ‘A Hundred Miles to the End’
John Beattie revisits his old-time surf spots along New York’s coast from Long Beach to Montauk and introduces some of New York’s best surfers along the way. (2014, 0:52)
» ‘Granite Stoke’
New Hampshire, while known for its rocks and white mountains, is also a surprising home to a surfing community along its 18-mile coastline. (2014, 0:40)
7:30 p.m. Tuesday

Onde Italiane double feature
» ‘Bella Vita’
In this “travelogue” shot entirely on 35 mm film, internationally acclaimed filmmaker Jason Baffa journeys through Italy with Italian-American surfer Chris del Moro and captures the beauty of Italy and its unique surf culture. In Italian and English with English subtitles. (2013, 1:22)
» ‘Peninsula’
Italian filmmaker Luca Merli explores the little-known history of Italian surfing and looks into how Italy’s vibrant surf community keeps the passion alive. In Italian and English with English subtitles. (2014, Italy, 0:55)
12:30 p.m. Wednesday

‘Serendipity’
This film, directed by Simon Lamb, pays tribute to the ultimate surfing destination called the Maldives, in the middle of the Indian Ocean amid a chain of coral atolls and discovered by a 20-year-old Australian named Tony Hussein Hinde. (2014, Australia, 1:04 )
7:30 p.m. Wednesday

Screens with:
» ‘Had Too Much to Dream Last Night’
Australian surfers Harrison Roach and Bryce Young journey across the Indonesian archipelago and encounter waves with long glassy point breaks and others in urchin-infested waters. (2014, Australia/Indonesia, 0:15)

Family Film Sunday
11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sunday, Doris Duke Theatre, Honolulu Museum of Art, $1-$3.

‘Earthwise’
Features 10 short films that showcase the theme of our precious planet and its fragile ecosystems and magnificent creatures: “A Walk in the Woods,” “The Mole at Sea,” “The Whale Bird,” “Monarch,” “Eskimal,” “Sandguy,” “Song of the Spindle,” “New Heaven and New Earth,” “Stop Let’s Change Our Future” and “My Forest.” Some films in Spanish, Mandarin and French with English subtitles. For ages 8 and older. (1:00)

MOVIE MUSEUM
3566 Harding Ave.
(808) 735-8771
$5, $4 members

‘Under the Skin’
Adaptation of Michel Faber’s novel about an alien in the form of a beautiful woman who lures young men into an abandoned building and seduces them. Meanwhile, she undergoes a change with each encounter. With Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy McWilliams and Lynsey Taylor. (2013, U.K./U.S./Switzerland, 1:48)
Noon, 4 and 8 p.m. Friday; and 2:15 and 8:45 p.m. Saturday

‘A Night in Old Mexico’
When an aging desperado is forced to give up his home, he and his grandson move on with life in an old battered Cadillac. With Robert Duvall. For ages 15 and older. (2013, Spain/U.S., 1:43)
2 and 6 p.m. Friday; and noon, 4:15 and 8:30 p.m. Monday

‘Oto-na-ri’ (‘Neighbors’)
In this unconventional romance, a man and woman living in neighboring apartments (and who have never met) find comfort in hearing snippets of each other’s lives through an adjoining thin wall — she enjoys the sound of his coffee grinder each morning, and he finds her practice of speaking French soothing. Award winner at the Yokohama Film Festival. For ages 13 and older. In Japanese with English subtitles. (2009, Japan, 1:59)
Noon, 4:15 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday; and 2 and 6:15 p.m. Monday

‘All Our Desires’ (‘Toutes nos envies’)
A judge helping a single mom caught up in debt and fraudulent loan agreements gets thrown off the case, so she consults with an older colleague who becomes reluctant to take on such a lost cause. For ages 13 and older. In French with English subtitles. (2011, France, 2:00)
Noon, 4 and 8 p.m. Sunday

‘Journal de France’
Documentary of French photojournalist Raymond Depardon, whose work captured major events across the world in the latter half of the 20th century. For ages 13 and older. In French with English subtitles. (2012, France, 1:40)
2:15 and 6:15 p.m. Sunday

‘Gallipoli’
In this moving tribute to Australians who lost their lives during the World War I invasion of Gallipoli, two men from different backgrounds form a friendship and share great optimism for their country. With Mel Gibson. Rated PG. (1981, Australia, 1:50)
Noon and 8:45 p.m. Thursday

‘Hugo’
After his clock-making father dies, a young boy avoids the orphanage by living in hidden passageways of a train station. He meets book-loving Isabelle, and together they piece together the remarkable history of a mysterious automaton he inherits from his late father. With Ben Kingsley, Asa Butterfield, Sacha Baron Cohen, Chloe Grace Moretz and Jude Law. Directed by Martin Scorsese. (2011, 2:06)
2, 4:15 and 6:30 p.m. Thursday

Nightclubs: Lux at the Trump, Lush, Goldfinger

DJs, live music and parties; 21+ unless noted.

FRIDAY, JULY 18

Salsa Lounge, Latin dance weekly with Hot Salsa Dance Co., free pupu, lessons, prizes, 6-11 p.m., Island Athletic Club, 1177 Queen St. Cover: $1-$5. All ages. 256-7556

Lux at the Trump: “Under the Sea with Me,” Paul Klink’s “white birthday party casino royale” with Lani Lau and Makena Surf Wear bikini fashion shows, casino games, DJs Scott Stiles and JP, special menu and view of fireworks and sunset, 7-11 p.m., Trump International Hotel Waikiki. $10-$25. VIP packages available; call 721-7777. Dress code, white attire. http://luxatthetrump.com

Jose Dynamite & Friends Comedy Show, featuring Elroy Ruiz, Dallas Gwynn and Dynamite, 7:30 p.m., O’Toole’s Irish Pub, Celtic Room. Cover: $10. 391-5673

Lush, night of house music with Rob Chiong, Matt Blac, guest DJs, 8 p.m.-2 a.m., eleven44. No cover. 528-1144, http://eleven44hawaii.com

Mambo Fridays, Latin dance with free 8 p.m. dance lesson presented by Linda Melodia Dance Co. and Hawaii Salsa Info Productions, 8 p.m.-midnight, Hono­­lulu Club. Cover: $7, includes parking. All ages. On Facebook: Mambo Fridays.

DJ Euphorik, with go-go dancers and Roxy on the Mic at 10; 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., RumFire. No cover. 294-8943

The Clampdown: The Late Ones, Rebecca Beralas, reggae, plus DJ Jet Boy, at the monthly local-music showcase, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. at Downbeat Lounge. Cover: $5. 533-2328

DJ Everlasting, spinning reggae and hip-hop, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Kemo‘o Farms Pub, Wahiawa. Cover: $5. 621-1835, http://kemoopub.com

Feel Good Fridays, old school with DJs Magic, Gee Flava, 9 p.m.-2 a.m., Fleet Reserve Association, 891 Valkenburgh St. Cover: $8-$10. VIP/reserve: 683-6440

Humble Soul and Kapu System, all-reggae night with DJ Ken spinning in Crossroads and Lethal Selectah throwing it down in The Studio, 9 p.m., Hawaiian Brian’s. Cover: $10. 946-1343, http://fb.com/crossroadsHI, http://hawaiireggaeguild.com. 18+

Lights Out Project, island fusion band, with DJ Nokternal, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. at Surfer, The Bar, Turtle Bay Resort. Cover: $10. 293-6000, http://surferthebar.com

Pimpbot’s Christmas in July, ska band with guests Rad Mobile, AnyGivenChance, Above Reproach and Shipwrecks, raffles and prizes for Christmas spirit (bust out your Santa hat and ugly sweater), hosted by Mr. Aaron Pughes, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Anna O’Brien’s. Cover: $5. 946-5190

Revive the Live: Nesian Nine, with Typical Hawaiians featuring Chief Ragga, 9 p.m., The Republik. Cover: $10. http://hifinest.com. 18+

The Manor: Adam Saaks, the Butcher Couture artist famed for his live T-shirt-cutting performances live, with resident DJs Epic-One, XL and guests, 10 p.m.-4 a.m., M Nightclub. Cover: $10; free before 10 p.m. 529-0010, http://mnlhnl.com

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Jazz Beats, experimental acid jazz, head beats and instrumental hip-hop with DJ Wish, also welcoming poets, 7 p.m.-midnight, Fiji Kava, 1007 Dillingham Blvd. No. 107B. No cover. 295-2450

Goldfinger, 8 p.m., The Republik. Cover: $30. $25 advance. All ages accompanied by an adult. http://flavorus.com, 855-­235-2867

The Party After Art, house music by DJs Ramyt, Jimmy Lee, Loic Tambay, Captain Timo and guests, 8 p.m.-2 a.m., eleven44. No cover. 528-1144, http://eleven44hawaii.com

Party Favor, Los Angeles-based EDM producer Dylan Ragland, 8 p.m.-2 a.m., Vice Nightclub. Cover: $35. $25 advance. http://flavorus.com. 18+

Sexy Saturdays, hits of the Pipeline years with host Rick Rock and DJs Twiks and BJamm, 8 p.m.-2 a.m., Sideline Sports Bar and Grill. Cover: $5 before 10 p.m. 842-5750

Soul’d Out Saturdays, dance hits of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s by DJ James Coles of 93.9 Jamz and his United DJs, 8 p.m.-2 a.m., eleven44. Cover: $5. Guest list: text 479-6004 or email jedroa@yahoo.com. 528-1144, http://eleven44hawaii.com

DJ Betty, with Chanel Moke Puha at 10; 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., RumFire. No cover. 294-8943, http://rumfirewaikiki.com

Finn, “The Groovah,” reggae/R&B singer-songwriter from Sacramento, 9 p.m., The Crown Bar & Nightclub. Cover: $25. $20 advance. 781-8300, http://thecrownhawaii.com

Blazing Saturdays at JR Rockers, DJs Doc Jay, Cee-Jaay and Chop, 9 p.m., Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. No cover. Call 391-5394 for base entry.

Nesta and Anti-Matter, 9 p.m., The Studio, Hawaiian Brian’s. Cover: $5; July birthdays free. 946-1343, http://fb.com/crossroadsHI. 18+

Summer of Rock, featuring bands We Only Have Tomorrow, Terrible People, 3rd Rock and Siire, 9 p.m. at Station Bar and Lounge. No cover. 384-9963, http://stationhawaii.com. 18+

The Party, featuring DJs Gotaro and Anton Glamb, 10 p.m., The Dragon Upstairs. No cover. 526-1411

Sabado Con Sabor, with DJs Fee and Ever, 10 p.m.-2 a.m., Just Tacos, Mili­lani Town Center. Cover: $5-$10. 625-8025. On Facebook: Sabado Con Sabor

Sold Out Saturdays, DJs Anit and Compose, 10:30 p.m., Addiction Nightclub, The Modern Honolulu. Cover: $20. 943-5800, http://addiction­nightclub.com

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Sweet Reggae Sundae, skanking to roots, reggae and dancehall selected by DJ Ant Eye, 8 p.m., Anna O’Brien’s. No cover. 946-5190

MONDAY, JULY 21

Brokeback Talent Night, open mic with GJ, 6-9 p.m., then Throwback Mondays — all-request ’90s and 2000s videos with VJ KSM, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.; Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand. No cover. 923-0669, http://hulas.com

DJ SuperCW, electro-dance, 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., RumFire. No cover. 294-8943, http://rumfirewaikiki.com

Grouplove, Los Angeles-based indie pop/rock band in concert, 8 p.m., The Republik. Cover: $32. $27 advance. All ages accompanied by an adult. http://flavorus.com, 855-­235-2867

TUESDAY, JULY 22

Stef Muzic, acoustic singer-songwriter, 8 p.m., Anna O’Brien’s. No cover. 946-5190

Willie K, in concert with opener Ashley Lilinoe (7-8:15 p.m.), 9-11 p.m., The Crown Bar & Nightclub. Cover: $25, $20 advance. Buffet, show $45. 781-8300, http://thecrownhawaii.com

Hot Latin Nights, with DJs Gato and G-Man, Latin, R&B and hip-hop, 8 p.m.-midnight, Five-O Bar & Lounge, Royal Hawaiian Center. No cover. 256-7556. All ages.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23

Let’s Play, weekly night of card and board games with prizes, 6:30 p.m. (happy hour till 8), eleven44. No cover. 528-1144, http://eleven44hawaii.com

Heavy Riddims, weekly night of reggae — from foundation to dancehall — with DJ Vince and guests, 8 p.m.-­midnight, eleven44. No cover. 528-1144, http://eleven44hawaii.com

Comedy U: Dallas Gwynn’s (Next) 21st Birthday, featuring comedians Shane Lucas Price, Jonny Sparkles, Daryl Bonilla and Gwynn, 8:30-11 p.m., Anna O’Brien’s. Cover: $5-$7. http://fb.com/comedyu.hi

Totally ’80s Wednesdays, the best of the ’80s and ’90s with DJs Nocturna and CoonDog, 9 p.m.-2 a.m., Downbeat Lounge. No cover. 533-2328, 591-3500

Unity, deep house and techno weekly featuring DJ Ija Prestera, 9 p.m.-2 a.m., Nextdoor. No cover. nextdoor808@gmail.com

Stiletto, ’90s-inspired weekly with DJ Delve, 10 p.m.-2 a.m., The Safehouse at The Republik. No cover. 941-7469, http://jointhe­republik.com

THURSDAY, JULY 25

Art + Flea: “Fly Me To The Moon,” monthly urban market and local arts party celebrates four years and moves to Ward Village, featuring 60+ vendors, live art, food trucks and entertainment by DJYJ, The Wreck, TV Microwave, Roofie Roulette, Secret Record Store and Kowai Kowai, 5-10 p.m., 1020 Auahi St. (behind Marukai Market). $3. All ages. http://artandflea.com

Cheeky! A Champagne Affair, weekly ladies’ night featuring complimentary Champagne as you enter, guest DJs from 7 p.m. and occasional pop-up boutiques at pau hana, 6 p.m.-­midnight, eleven44. No cover. Reservations for groups of eight or more: 528-1144, http://eleven44hawaii.com

Comedy Hospital with the Female Comics of Hawaii, open-mic weekly, hosted by Erika Swartzkopf, 8-11 p.m. (sign-up at 7:30) second and fourth Thursdays, Station Bar and Lounge. No cover. http://fb.com/mraaron­presents

Salsamor, salsa, bachata, merengue and cha-cha with DJ Rod and free dance lesson, 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Thursdays, Vice Nightclub. Cover: $10. 387-9164, http://luxesalsa.com

KTUH’s Thumpin’ Thursdays with DJ Pepperjack, EDM, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Anna O’Brien’s. No cover. 946-5190

Plursdays, EDM weekly, 9 p.m.-2 a.m., The Underground. Cover: $10; $5 before 10 p.m. http://edmhawaii.info. 18+

Quick Bites: Du Vin, 12th Ave. Grill, Halekulani

BY MICHELLE RAMOS / mramos@staradvertiser.com

Tasty savings: Eggs ‘n Things celebrated its 40th anniversary with a “Throwback Menu Week” this week. There are only two days left for the specials: On Friday, ask for the Salami and Cheese Omelet, which comes with a choice of rice, potato or pancakes for $3.45. Saturday’s special is the Candied Pecan Pancakes for $1.75. For more information go to eggsnthings.com.

Learn to make your own cocktails with the help of Brasserie Du Vin staff at Muddled, an interactive cocktail-making event. (Star-Advertiser / 2011)

‘A Tasting with Bruce Neyers’: Winemaker Neyers is Vino’s featured speaker at a tasting, 6 p.m. Saturday.

The four wines up for sampling include 2012 Neyers Sage Canyon Cuvee; 2010 Neyers Merlot Napa Valley; 2006 Neyers Cabernet Sauvignon “AME”; and 2012 Neyers Chardonnay, “Il Novillero Vineyard.” Cost: $39. Reserve at 533-4476 or email Jason Pohlman at jpohlman@dkrestaurants.com.

German wine comes to Alan Wong’s: An Evening with Fritz Hasselbach of Weingut Gunderlock & Uwe Matheus of Weingut Hans Wirsching will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday. Alan Wong will prepare a menu of kampachi, steamed shellfish, salmon “schnitzel,” duck and a lilikoi dessert for $85. For $135, enjoy each course with a German wine from Weingut Gunderlock or Weingut Hans Wirsching. Reserve at 949-2526.

Release your inner bartender: Brasserie Du Vin is hosting Muddled, a cocktail-making event where participants will help design cocktails and taste them, 6 p.m. July 29. Must be 21 or older. Cost: $30. Reserve at 545-1115.

Wine-pairing feast: 12th Ave Grill chef and owner Kevin Hanney is holding a Storrs Wine Dinner, 6:30 p.m. July 30. For $95, diners can enjoy a spicy Dungeness crab and house chorizo tamale, salmon and scallops, ribs, roasted confit Maui lamb belly and strawberry-blackberry rhubarb cobbler. Each course will be paired with a wine from Storrs Winery. Tickets available at hsalinks.com/storrsdinner.

Hana Hou at Mavro: Chef Mavro enjoys creating new dishes, but some diners enjoy the tried and true. For these eaters, Mavro has created a Hana Hou menu of his popular dishes Meli Melo salad, Onaga Baked in a Salt Crust, lamb tagine and lilikoi malasadas. Cost: $95. To reserve call 944-4714.

Scratch Kitchen & Bake Shop: Touted as “downtown’s first all-day brunch,” Scratch opened Tuesday at 1030 Smith St. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays and 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Call 536-1669 or go to scratch-hawaii.com.

30-year celebration: Halekulani honored its 30th anniversary with the release of a new private-label wine called Celebrate. Made by Napa Valley winery Neyers Vineyard, the cabernet sauvignon is only available at La Mer, Orchids and the hotel’s boutique for a limited time. Cost per bottle is $150.

From music to wine: Na Hoku Hanohano award winner Amy Hanaiali’i has created a merlot with the help of winemaker Brian Brakesman. Pre-orders are being taken at amyhanaialiigilliom.com.
———
Quick Bites seeks Honolulu dining news, including restaurant openings and chefs’ arrivals, menu changes and cocktail additions. Please send announcements to Michelle Ramos at mramos@staradvertiser.com.

The Pulse Top 5: Party Wave, Jemere Morgan

BY JASON GENEGABUS / jason@staradvertiser.com

(Craig T. Kojima / Star-Advertiser)

PICS: 2014 RED BULL PARTY WAVE

1. Red Bull hosted the first Red Bull Party Wave surf competition at Queen’s Surf Beach in Waikiki on Sunday. Teams built and sailed their own man-made craft, dressed to fit the theme and performed a skit for judges before hitting the water. Teams were judged on creativity, showmanship and wave performance. See honolulupulse.com/rbpw2014 for more photos.

(Kat Wade / Special to the Star-Advertiser)

PICS: JEMERE MORGAN AT THE CROWN

2. Third-generation reggae artist Jemere Morgan made his Hawaii debut at The Crown as part of the Live & Dangerous Concert Series on Saturday. Morgan is the son of Morgan Heritage’s Roy “Gramps” Morgan and grandson of Denroy Morgan. Go to honolulupulse.com/jemeremorgan for the complete Pulse photo gallery.

(Kat Wade / Special to the Star-Advertiser)

PICS: HULA’S WAIKIKI 40TH ANNIVERSARY

3. Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand celebrated 40 years of outrageous fun-making in Waikiki on July 9. Visitors enjoyed music by the Brothers Cazimero, Kawika Trask, Starr Kalahiki and food by chef Michelle Nakaya, with some proceeds earmarked for the Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival. Visit honolulupulse.com/hulas40th for more pictures.

(Kat Wade / Special to the Star-Advertiser)

PICS: 2014 KOREAN FESTIVAL

4. The annual Korean Festival took place at Magic Island on Saturday with featured entertainment by Korean boy band M.Pire. See more photos from the concert and all-day festival at honolulupulse.com/koreanfest2014.

(Kat Wade / Special to the Star-Advertiser)

PICS: RUSSELL TANOUE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

5. Fashion photographer Russell Tanoue celebrated his birthday July 9 with a bash at Buho Cocina y Cantina in Waikiki. Go to honolulupulse.com/rtbirthday for more pictures from the party.

Out ‘N’ About: Ukulele Fest, Sunset Serenade

WEEKEND OF JULY 18

Ewa Orchid Society’s Orchid Carnival, annual show, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Ewa Elementary School, 91-1280 Renton Road. Free admission. http://ewaorchidsociety.tripod.com

Goodwill Goes GLAM! sale, offering fashion and designer items to benefit job training and readiness programs; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. $2-$4; children 12 and younger free; 836-0313, http://higoodwill.org

4th Annual Ukulele Festival Hawaii: Gala, Workshop, kicking off with annual benefit featuring entertainment by Willie K, Ohta-san, Nando Suan and Danny Kaleikini, buffet dinner and silent auction, 5:30 p.m. Friday, Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom. $85; free ukulele workshop, 10-11 a.m., Ala Moana Hotel. (Festival Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Kapiolani Park Bandstand; see listing.) 626-6755, http://ukulelefestivalhawaii.org

Jikoen Hongwanji Mission bon dance, 6 p.m. Friday and 5:30 p.m. Saturday, 1731 N. School St. Food booths open 5 p.m. both nights. Additional parking at Kapalama Elementary School. 845-3422

39th Annual Queen Lili‘uokalani Keiki Hula Competition, concluding with kahiko contest 6 p.m. Friday and ‘auana contest 1 p.m.
Saturday, at Blaisdell Arena. $10-$14. 866-448-7849, http://ticketmaster.com; http://kpcahawaii.com, 521-6905

Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Church of Hawaii bon dance, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2280 Auhuhu St., Pearl City. Food booths open
6 p.m. both nights. 455-3212

Wahiawa Ryusenji Soto Mission bon dance, with nightly taiko and Okinawan dancing on Saturday; 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 164 California Ave. Food booths open 6 p.m. both nights. 622-1429

“CabaRAE”: Sneak peek of variety show coming to Hilton Hawaiian Village later this summer, featuring aerial and daredevil acts, comedy and more by an international cast, produced by former Cirque du Soleil director Alan Goldberg; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays through Aug. 31, Tapa Tower Ballroom, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. $30-$60; includes post-show cast meet-and-greet. 354-0629, http://cabarae.com

Haleiwa Jodo Mission bon dance, 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 66-279A Haleiwa Road. Services at 6:30 p.m. both nights. Floating lantern ceremony 9:30 p.m. Saturday. 637-4382

FRIDAY, JULY 18

Royal Hawaiian Band, noon-1 p.m., ‘Iolani Palace. Free. 922-5331, http://rhb-music.com

St. Andrew’s Cathedral noontime concert, organ recital by John Renke, 12:15-12:45 p.m., The Cathedral of St. Andrew. Free; calabash offering. 524-2822, ext. 217, http://thecathedralof­standrew.org

Third Fridays Kaimuki, neighborhood walkabout with food samples, live music, art, shopping and special offers, 5-9 p.m., from Koko Head to Eighth avenue. Free. http://third­fridayskaimuki.com

The Joy of Sake, featuring 370 sakes and appetizers by 19 top restaurants, 6:30-9 p.m., Hawai‘i Convention Center. $95-$145. http://joyofsake.com

Friday Night Pau Hana Concert: Lehua Kalima, singer-songwriter and member of Na Leo Pilimehana, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Windward Mall center court. Free. 235-1143, http://windwardmall.com

Jazz at Medici’s: Pierre Grill and Ginai, jazz concert featuring the multi-instramentalist and singer-songwriter, 7:30-10:30 p.m., Medici’s in Manoa School of Art & Music, Manoa Marketplace. $10-$15. BYOB; pizza, salad bar for purchase. 779-5363

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Manoa Valley Church White Elephant Faire, with plants, produce and $1 menu, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 2728 Huapala St. Free admission. 988-3271

75th Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church feast fair, with entertainment, kids’ rides, games, plants, homemade malasadas, shave ice, Hawaiian food; 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 48-422 Kamehameha Highway, Waikane. 239-9269, http://mtcarmelhawaii.wordpress.com

37th Annual Prince Lot Hula Festival, halau perform on an authentic hula mound, with Royal Hawaiian Band, local foods, traditional arts
and handi­crafts, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Moanalua Gardens. Free. 839-5334, http://moanaluagardensfoundation.org

Aiea Public Library grand opening, ceremony with Gov. Neil Abercrombie officially opens the $10.4 million library at the site of the Aiea Sugar Mill; 10 a.m., 99-374 Pohai Place. Free. http://librarieshawaii.org, 483-7333

Wet ’n’ Wild Hawaii twilight event, extended-hours day at the water park and a school supplies drive for Helping Hands’ Ready to Learn program. Features entertainment, games and a kendama contest at 4; 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Wet ’n’ Wild Hawaii, Kapolei. $32.99 kamaaina; $19.99 with a donation of $10 in cash or school supplies. 674-9283, http://wetnwildhawaii.com

Kau Ka La Summer of Guitars concert: Ashley Lilinoe, “acoustic neo-soul meets jazzy R&B flowing with a bluesy reggae” as the singer-songwriter performs, noon-1 p.m., Bishop Museum. Included with museum admission ($8.95-$19.95). 847-3511, http://bishopmuseum.org

Ho‘okani Ka ‘Ukulele (Play the Ukulele): Eddie Kamae, Imua Garza, Kalei Gamiao and Brittni Paiva, in concert for Waimea Valley’s second
annual summer series Pila Ho‘okani (Modern Hawaiian Instruments), also offering food and craft vendors, 1-5 p.m., Waimea Valley, main lawn.
$8-$20 (includes admission to the valley). 638-7766, http://waimeavalley.net

Waikiki Steel Guitar Festival, featuring legendary steel guitarists Alan Akaka, Bobby Ingano, Greg Sardinha, Jeff Au Hoy, Owana Salazar and Eddie Palama, and students from Ke Kula Mele Hawaii, 3-7 p.m., Waikiki Beach Walk’s Plaza Stage. Free. 931-3591, http://waikiki­steelguitarfestival.com

Midsummer Night’s Gleam, annual garden night with thousands of lights, belly dancers, lion dancers, Golden Horde’s Mongolian tribesmen, sparring knights and West African drum and dance ensemble Sewa Fare, children’s activities (4-6 p.m.), recyclable art and a succulents living wall, 4-9 p.m., Foster Botanical Garden. Free admission. 522-7066

Classic Car Show, East End Hot Rod Club, 5-9 p.m., Windward Mall, Macy’s parking lot. Free. 235-1143, http://windwardmall.com

Shriners Big Band concert, classic swing, jazz and dancing, a benefit for the families of Shriners child patients, 5:30-7 p.m., Hideaway Club lawn, U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point, 1 Coral Sea Road, Kapolei. $10; free for children. Blankets, beach chairs welcome. 916-834-9728

Sunset Serenade: Na Leo Pilimehana, trio performs in Hawaii Kai Towne Center’s 10th annual summer concert series, 5:30 p.m., Hawaii Kai Towne Center. Free. 396-0766, http://fb.com/hawaiikaitownecenter

Honolulu Night Market: “Pop and Paws,” food trucks, retail vendors, fashion show, live music, pop-up shops and more, 6-11 p.m., 449 Cooke St., Kakaako. Free parking in the lot at 555 South St. Free. All ages. http://honolulunightmarket.com

Waianae Hongwanji bon dance, 6:30 p.m., 85-762 Old Government Road. Food booths open 5:30 p.m. 677-4221

Danny Carvalho, slack-key artist, accompanied by Wil Tafolo on bass and Von Baron on drums, 7:30 p.m., Atherton Performing Arts Studio, Hawaii Public Radio. $15-$30. 955-8821, http://hprtickets.org

Filipino Comedy Tour, starring Joey Guila, Ron Josol, Keith Pedro and Lanai Tabura, 8 p.m., Blaisdell Center Pikake Room. $20. 866-448-7849, http://ticketmaster.com

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Moanalua 99 Craft & Gift Fair, with 30+ vendors, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Moanalua 99 (formerly 99 Ranch Market). Free admission. 479-5525

Bank of Hawaii Family Sunday: “Natural Unnatural Supernatural,” free-admission day at Honolulu Museum of Art celebrates its exhibition of the same name with art activities, Air Force jazz ensemble Papana, entertainer Willow Chang and folk-pop-classical band Streetlight Cadence, family film “Earthwise” ($1-$3) and a drawing contest; plus free shuttle service to

Family Day at Spalding House in Makiki Heights, with entertainment, activities; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (galleries and shuttles till 5 p.m.). Free. 532-8701, http://honolulu­museum.org

44th Annual Ukulele Festival, featuring performers including Jake Shimabukuro, Herb Ohta Jr., Jon Yamasato, Aidan James, Raiatea Helm, Willie K (backed by hundreds of ukulele workshop attenders for “You Kuuipo” and “La Bamba”), and from as far away as Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand and France, plus food booths, keiki bounce houses and ukulele lessons, displays and giveaways; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Kapiolani Park Bandstand. Free admission. (Free parking and air-conditioned shuttle service at Kapiolani Community College 7 a.m.-6 p.m.) http://ukulelefestivalhawaii.org

Anastasios Comanescu, classical guitarist from Los Angeles in concert to benefit the cathedral’s Aloha Youth Choir, 1 p.m., Ss. Constantine & Hele Greek Orthodox Cathedral. $12; $10 advance. 521-7220

Comic Jam Hawaii, hobbyists and professional artists talk story, create collaborative art, 1-4 p.m., Pearlridge Center, Downtown Center Court. 488-0981, http://pearlridgeonline.com

Hawaii Polo Club game, for the USPA Masters Cup, with pregame pony parade, halftime sky diving entertainment, and postgame live band till sunset, 2 p.m. (gates open at noon for picnics), Hawaii Polo Club, Waialua. $8-$10; $25 clubhouse seating. 226-0061, http://hawaii-polo.org

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Japan’s “Ambassador of Cute” in her debut “Kawaii Hawaii” concert, the finale to her Nanda Collection World Tour, 5 p.m., Waikiki Shell. $30-$85. 866-448-7849, http://ticketmaster.com

Melveen Leed, in concert for the Na Mele no na Pua (“Music for the Generations”) concert series, 5-6 p.m., Waikiki Beach Walk Plaza Stage. Free. 931-3591

Swing Dance Club Hawaii dance, free lesson, open dancing (swing, cha cha, waltz, salsa, fox trot, etc.) with music by Bert Burgess, 6:30-9:15 p.m., Palladium Ballroom, Ala Wai Golf Club. $8. 457-9818, http://swingdanceclubhawaii.org

MONDAY, JULY 21

Willie K, with special guests Paul Izak and Kuhio Travis, 7 p.m., Surfer, The Bar, Turtle Bay Resort. $25, $20 pre-sale at shopturtlebay.com. Ages 21+. 293-6000, http://surferthebar.com

TUESDAY, JULY 22

Kids Summer Movie Express, family-friendly second-run movies for $1, with part of proceeds going to Will Rogers Institute, 10 a.m., Regal Cinemas Windward 10, Windward Mall. 235-1143, http://windwardmall.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23

Kids Summer Movie Express, family-friendly second-run movies for $1, 10 a.m., Regal Cinemas Windward 10, Windward Mall. 235-1143

“Bridging Communities, Bridging Cultures, Bridging Cities,” free community forum examining culture initiatives of cities around the world, featuring keynote speaker Mayor Kirk Caldwell, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Twigg-Smith Pavilion, Case Middle School, Punahou School. Free. http://punahou.edu/wo-international-center/student-global-leadership-institute

“Wildest Show in Town”: Willie K, Honolulu Zoo’s summer concert series, with ukulele giveaways, animal-themed displays by HI Lego Users Group, guided tour for first 30 people, food and drink for purchase, 6-7 p.m. (gates open at 4:35), main lawn. $3. 926-3191, ext. 114, http://honolulu­zoo.org/wild

Valery Ponomarev, internationally acclaimed jazz trumpeter, with Darryl Pellegrini, Steve Jones and Robert Shi­noda for Jazz Wednesday, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Gordon Biersch. No cover. 599-4877, 537-3291

Mars Comedy Club, hosted by the Guys With Issues Comedy Podcast crew, 7:30 p.m., The Studio, Hawaiian Brian’s. Cover: $5. Ages 18+. http://marscomedy.com

Walkabout Wednesday Comedy Throwdown, new show with On the Spot Improv and challengers, 7:30 p.m., The ARTS at Marks Garage. Free. http://otsimprov.com

THURSDAY, JULY 24

Art + Flea: “Fly Me to the Moon,” monthly urban market and local arts party celebrates four years and moves to Ward Village, featuring 60+ vendors (of handmade, vintage, fashion, art, music, more), live art, food trucks and entertainment by DJYJ, The Wreck and others, 5-10 p.m., 1020 Auahi St. (behind Marukai Market). $3. All ages. http://artandflea.com

“The Restoration of Family Ties: Bringing Home the Families of Kalaupapa,” illustrated lecture with Valerie Monson of Ka ‘Ohana o Kalaupapa, hosted by the Historic Hawaii Foundation and Native Books/Na Mea Hawaii, 5:30-7 p.m., Native Books/Na Mea Hawaii, Ward Warehouse. Free. 523-2900

Podium Raceway’s Turbo Thursday, new weekly cosmic racing and cosmic mini-putt party with hosts DJ I-Rize, DJ Sir Style and Kutmaster Spaz, kendama contest and more, 6-9 p.m. Thursdays in July. Free. All ages. 682-7223, http://podium­raceway.com

“Pakele Live!” Tony Solis’ Hawaiian music show features Bay Area nahenahe singer Faith Ako, 6:30-8:30 p.m., The Willows. No cover; cocktail seating. Restaurant reservations: 952-9200. http://pakelelive.com

Ke Kani o ke Kai summer concert: Weldon Kekauoha and Melveen Leed, with food by Da Spot for purchase and galleries and exhibits open,
7 p.m., Waikiki Aquarium lawn. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. $15-$50; free for kids 4 and younger. Low sand chairs, mats OK. http://waquarium.org/kkokk

Hawaii Performing Arts Festival: Iggy, Chee-Yun & Friends, with Iggy Jang, violinist Chee-Yun, violist Michael Strauss, cellist Parry Karp in concert; 7:30 p.m., Doris Duke Theatre. $15-$25. http://honolulu­museum.org, 532-6097

ONGOING

‘Aha ‘Aina: A Royal Hawaiian Lu‘au, 5:30-­9 p.m. Mondays, Royal Hawaiian Hotel. $93-$199. 921-4600, http://royal-hawaiian.com

Fourever Fab, Beatles tribute concert, 7-8:15 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, Ainahau Showroom, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel. $35.49-$89.99. Dinner packages from $89.99. 725-4136, http://foureverfabshow.com

“Ha: Breath of Life,” with Polynesian dance, music and fireknives, 7:30-9 p.m. nightly except Sundays, Polynesian Cultural Center, Laie. $25-$39.95. 293-3333, http://polynesia.com

Legends in Concert Waikiki: “Rock-A-Hula,” featuring Elvis Pres­ley tribute, hula and impersonators of stars, 8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, Royal Hawaiian Center, fourth floor. $50.28-$185. Kamaaina and kids specials offered. 629-7469, http://legendswaikiki.com

Magic of Polynesia, with illusionist John Hiro­kawa, 7:30 p.m. daily (6 p.m. dinner seating), Magic of Polynesia Theater, Holiday Inn Waikiki Beachcomber Resort. $28-$99. 971-4321, http://magic­­of­polynesia.com

Na Kane — Men of Paradise, 10-man Las Vegas-style male revue, 8:15 p.m. Friday, International Ballroom, Pagoda Hotel (new location). Doors open 7 p.m.; dance floor opens after the show, 9:45-11:30 p.m. $29-$59; VIP packages available. Ages 18+. 550-4444, http://nakane.us

Rockin’ Hawaiian Rainbow Revue and Fireworks Show, hula and Hawaiian music show, 7 p.m. (7:45 p.m. fireworks), Fridays at Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Super Pool. $20, includes drink. 949-4321, http://hiltonhawaiianvillage.com

“Te Moana Nui (Tales of the Pacific),” Tihati Productions show retracing the journey of Hawaii’s ancestors with song, dance and storytelling, 7:30 p.m. (5:30 dinner check-in) Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Pacific Beach Hotel. $50-$115 (cocktail or buffet dinner packages). 441-4480, http://temoananui.com

Waikiki Starlight Luau, 5:30 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays, Hilton Hawaiian Village, rooftop of Mid-Pacific Conference Center. $51-$125. 941-5828

Do It! Prince Lot, Kawaii, Opera Maui, Grouplove

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Prince Lot Hula Festival features Topolinski’s return

The theme of the 37th annual Prince Lot Hula Festival on Saturday is “Kila Kila O Moanalua … Majestic Is Moanalua.”

(Courtesy Prince Lot Hula Festival)

This year’s lineup of halau includes the return of kumu hula John Kaha’i Topolinski and his halau Ka Pa Hula Hawaii after a long absence from the festival.

It’s a homecoming of sorts, considering that Topolinski created the 1980 dedication ceremony for Moanalua’s hula mound, in honor of Kama’ipu’upa’a, Prince Lot’s beloved companion from Molokai.

Noted kumu hula Robert Cazimero opens up the festival, followed by an impressive lineup of premier halau that will perform both kahiko (ancient-style) and auana (modern-style) hula.

The festival, the largest noncompetitive hula event in Hawaii, is held each year to honor Prince Lot Kapuaiwa, who revived the once forbidden hula in the district of Moanalua.

Cultural practitioners, including feather lei maker Paulette Kahalepuna and sculptor-artist Keith Maile, will also be at the festival, along with artists and jewelry makers.

Local food, refreshments, limited-edition

T-shirts and a souvenir button will be available for purchase, with proceeds going toward festival costs.

Parking is available at Moanalua Middle and Elementary schools, as well as along Moanalua Park Road. First Hawaiian Bank’s Mapunapuna branch (1000 Mapunapuna St.) will also offer parking, with a free shuttle to Moanalua Gardens.

Visitors may bring beach chairs and mats to enjoy the festivities beneath shady monkeypod trees.

– Nina Wu

» Where: Moanalua Gardens
» When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday
» Cost: Free
» Info: moanaluagardensfoundation.org

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu brings her sparkling personality to Hawaii

Last weekend it was K-Pop with Korean “boy band” M.Pire headlining the Korean Cultural Festival. This weekend, Honolulu goes J-Pop as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, known to her followers as the Queen of Kawaii (Queen of Cute), brings her KPP Nanda Collection Live world tour to the Waikiki Shell.

(Courtesy Aki Ishii)

Born Kiriko Takemura 21 years ago, Kyary broke out as a hot new J-Pop artist with the release of her first single, “PonPonPon,” in 2011. Two additional singles, “Candy Candy” and “Fashion Monster,” and two full-length albums, “Pamyu Pamyu Revolution” and “Nanda Collection,” swept her to icon status in Asia. She’s been described as Japan’s G-rated equivalent of Lady Gaga.

Kyary’s concert here follows shows in Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Hong Kong, Sydney, Paris, London and the mainland.

Much of Kyary’s success outside Japanese markets has come from her eye-catching personification of the Japanese pop culture concept of “kawaii” in colorful Internet videos. Kawaii is a prominent aspect of Japanese pop culture — think Hello Kitty — and the Harajuku district of Tokyo is known internationally as a center of youth culture and fashion. Put all that together and our Queen of Kawaii is also known as the Harajuku Pop Princess.

Queen or princess, Kyary is certain to be cute, colorful and energetic when she makes her Hawaii debut at the Shell this weekend.

– John Berger

» Where: Waikiki Shell
» When: 5 p.m. Sunday
» Cost: $30 lawn seating, $60 and $75 reserved; $85 “pool” seating is sold out.
» Info: 866-448-7849 or ticketmaster.com

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Opera Maui making debut with star singers

Jim Price, a tenor who splits his time between Maui and Germany, has founded a new company, Opera Maui. He’s kicking things off on Maui and Oahu this weekend with an all-star program of powerhouse voices featuring classic opera tunes.

(Star-Advertiser / 2012)

Prime among the performers, who are volunteering their efforts to help the company rise, is Hawaii’s own Quinn Kelsey, pictured, who is rapidly gaining consideration as the “Rigoletto” of our time.

“What a voice! He has beauty of tone, ample dramatic intensity, volume without resorting to pushing, youthful timbre, and most of all, his is an authentic Verdi baritone, a rare breed,” wrote a Canadian critic of Kelsey’s recent appearance with the English National Opera.

Soprano Audrey Luna, pictured inset, and mezzo Shoshanah Marote from the Metropolitan Opera are also on the program. Luna’s performances as Ariel in “The Tempest” helped the Met’s production win a Grammy Award for best opera recording last year.

On piano will be Maika’i Nash, originally from Oahu’s Windward side, now a respected opera coach in Toronto.

Price, who portrayed Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables” for the Maui Academy of Art’s production last year, performed for Hawaii Opera Theatre for eight seasons, including as Pang in “Turandot” and Triquet in “Eugene Onegin.” He hopes to bring more concerts at Christmastime with opera and Broadway singers, and to stage a rock opera next year.

– Steven Mark

» Where: Monarch Room, Royal Hawaiian Hotel
» When: 4 p.m. Sunday
» Cost: $49
» Info: honoluluboxoffice.com or 550-8457
» Note: The inaugural Maui concert is at 7:30 p.m. Friday; $39; (808) 242-7469 or mauiarts.org/tickets

MONDAY, JULY 21

Grouplove set to play The Republik

Led by the punkishly earnest vocals of Christian Zucconi and Hannah Hooper, and the band’s synthpop hooks, the offbeat band Grouplove may well win the title as band that has the most fun onstage this year.

(Courtesy Pamela Littky)

Grouplove broke out with the hit “Tongue Tied” after the catchy song was used in an iPod Touch commercial in late 2011 (you’ll probably know the hook — “Take me to your best friend’s house …”). The youth anthem hit No. 1 on the Billboard alternative chart.

The Los Angeles-based quintet’s “Ways to Go,” with a video that humorously imagines the musically induced ideological conversion of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, reached No. 2 on the alternative chart.

Grouplove’s latest single, off the 2013 album “Spreading Rumors,” is the more rockish “I’m With You,” with driving drum riffs and upbeat rhythms. The band contributed the song “Let Me In” to the film “A Fault in Our Stars.”

– Stefanie Nakasone

» Where: The Republik, 1349 Kapiolani Blvd.
» When: 8 p.m. Monday
» Cost: $27
» Info: flavorus.com, 855-235-2867

TICKER

“Master Shredder” Adam Saaks cuts T-shirts into couture at M Nightclub on Friday night, July 18; free before 10 p.m., $10 cover after; mnlhnl.com, 529-0010.

Pau Hana Patrol: The Safehouse

Spicy Ahi Won Ton Tacos are $12 during happy hour at the Safehouse. (Cindy Ellen Russell / crussell@staradvertiser.com)

BY ELIZABETH KIESZKOWSKI / ekieszkowski@staradvertiser.com

I’ve been doing this Pau Hana Patrol thing for nearly four years, and after visiting dozens of bars and restaurants, from shacklike counters to upscale steakhouse barrooms, I’ve refined my standards a bit.

I like a pau hana beer or cocktail, sure. A poorly stocked bar is always a major turnoff.

But getting a fair shake on decent food in adequate portions has moved up higher on my list. After all, it’s usually early, so I’m not in a big hurry to guzzle down much alcohol.

It definitely helps if the plates are generous enough that it is not a strain to make this a dinner stop.

Finally, give me a happy hour incentive, in the form of a nice discount, and my eyes really light up.

From this perspective, The Safehouse, the bar inside music venue The Republik, is a winner on most counts. It’s got a long, prime-time pau hana, a great bar menu, decently varied food offerings in ample portions, and fair prices made even better by the pau hana discounts.

The drinks here are killer, and the plates easy to share.

Just make sure there’s not a concert scheduled on your go-to night. Since The Safehouse is basically the back bar and lounge for The Republik, if there’s a show, that will take precedence.

Bartender Yooey Kim serves up a Black & Tan at the Safehouse. (Cindy Ellen Russell / crussell@staradvertiser.com)

The Safehouse is cool, in both senses of the word, with a dark bar offset by white chairs and walls, and lights that are perpetually set on “dim.”

The ambience is Prohibition era meets techno, with a gorgeous, opulent chandelier hanging overhead, a hideaway setting and streamlined, sleek furnishings.

The drink menu is a dream, with bold, thoughtfully created recipes, derived from classic and original inspirations.

The namesake Safe House 75, for example, includes Bombay Sapphire gin,

fresh-pressed lemon juice, Hawaiian honey and fresh strawberries, capped with prosecco ($10 during happy hour). It’s good, trust me.

The Last Word, a prohibition-era cocktail, includes Beefeater, cherry liqueur, Green Chartreuse and fresh lime juice ($8 during happy hour). I didn’t try that one, but if you did, let me know what you think!

I was feeling pretty good after sipping down the Tough Luck, which plays off the recipe for a classic Manhattan, but uses 8-year-old Basil Hayden bourbon and 14-year-old Oban scotch. See if that doesn’t get you humming a Sinatra tune.

I like The Safehouse, but I do have a caveat on the menu: Given the island restaurant scene’s growing emphasis on fresh, locally sourced foods, the dishes here can feel somewhat behind the times. Burgers, pizza and fries are top choices.

But here’s the thing: Sometimes you want a big burger and fries, or a nice slice, right? At Safehouse, these are big plates, and they are well-priced, happy hour or no.

I had a “Pudge” Burger and fries ($12 during happy hour), split with a friend, and we found ourselves negotiating for the last few fresh-cut fries, tossed in a light spice, and debating whether we should order another round. We didn’t waste any time before chomping down on the big cheeseburger, either.

Rib-eye skewers ($13 during happy hour), with onions, peppers and mushroom, came in a set of three, big enough to share and to satisfy if you’re looking for a carb-free snack.

Word to the hungry: The breaded chicken tenders ($8 during happy hour), served with Buffalo or spicy Asian sauce, are huge!

The Spicy Ahi Wonton Tacos ($12 during happy hour) were closer to pupu size, but were also a nice blend of tastes and textures.

I’ve been to the room twice in the past two weeks, once when crowded, once when not. Both times, service was quick and the bartenders were good-humored and on top of it. You can’t even put a price on the value of that.

Given all its charms, I’d say The Safehouse lives up to its name. It’s practically a sure thing for a satisfying happy hour.

Shakespeare Fest begins with Goldsmith

An all-female cast composed of Jordan Clara Ihilani Sasaki, left, Diana Wan, Stephanie Keiko Kong and Ann Brandman will perform the roles in “King Lear,” “Taming of the Shrew” and “Much Ado about Nothing.” (Courtesy Brad Goya)

BY JOHN BERGER / jberger@staradvertiser.com

This time last year, it was “mission accomplished” for Tony Pisculli and the Hawaii Shakespeare Festival. The group he co-founded as the Summer Shakespeare Festival with R. Kevin Doyle and Harry Wong III in 2002 completed the arduous task of presenting every play in the standard Shakespearean canon.

Other local theater groups had done The Bard’s most popular comedies and tragedies from time to time — “Macbeth” and “Romeo and Juliet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” to name three. Pisculli and Hawaii Shakespeare Festival have done them all.

For 2014, Pisculli and the Hawaii Shakespeare Festival are undertaking new challenges. The festival opens this weekend with “She Stoops to Conquer,” its first presentation of a classic comedy written by another playwright.

“It’s by Oliver Goldsmith (and) it’s a fantastic play,” Pisculli said. “It’s a comedy of manners, it’s very, very funny and it’s going to be a great kickoff to the festival.

“She Stoops to Conquer” is representative of what’s planned for the Hawaii Shakespeare Festival, Pisculli said. “It’s the best example of what we’re going to be doing going forward: broadening out to other classic theater.

“Our plan is to do one non-Shakespeare play every year going forward.”

With “Edward III,” directed by veteran actor-director Jason Kandy, the Hawaii Shakespeare Festival is also moving into Shakespearean apocrypha — plays that are generally but not universally accepted as being Shakespeare’s work.

Saving the most complicated project for last, Pisculli is boldly going where the Hawaii Shakespeare Festival has never gone before, with all-female productions of three plays performed with minimal rehearsal time — about 20 rehearsal hours, as opposed to 100 in a traditional production.

“The all-female thing is old hat for HSF audiences. The new thing is that it’s being done in sort of an original staging practices style,” Pisculli said.

He describes the result as “much more text-centric and less about the director’s vision for the show, really much more empowering for the actors to make choices for themselves.”

With these plays, actors won’t be locked in to positions and movements — and they won’t even receive a full script.

“We’re working from cue scripts,” Pisculli explained. “The actors don’t get to see what other people’s lines are. All you have is your cue — which is a couple of lines — and then your lines. You don’t know what the context is in which you’re saying them, and you also don’t know if the scene is long or short. You don’t know who else is on stage with you.”

“It’s a very intense experience for the actors, and I think it creates a sort of really raw immediate quality that you see in good improv, where people are just listening and focusing and then making decisions — bang! — on the fly. That sense of discovery and play that makes great improv so much fun to watch. We’ve already seen a lot of that at rehearsal, and it’s fantastic.”

The three-show project — he calls it “Lear-Shrew-Much Ado” — is so big that Pisculli is opening it on a Thursday instead of a Friday, adding a day to the run, so that all three plays can be presented three times.

“My hope is people will come and see ‘Much Ado’ and say, ‘Oh, my God, now I’ve got to see these same actors do a completely different play the next night!’”

DJ Anit joins Pharrell at BET Awards

BY ERIN SMITH / Special to the Star-Advertiser

Tina Viernes, the Honolulu DJ better known to the club set as DJ Anit, was among last month’s graduating class from “Bae University” with Grammy Award-winning producer and recording artist Pharrell Williams as her instructor — and she completed her studies in just four days!

The gig put Viernes in the orbit of a performer and producer who’s dominated the music charts, TV, radio and video feeds over the past year. Pharrell is definitely in the public eye — and not just because of that outrageous hat he’s taken to wearing onstage. His latest album, “G I R L,” features a slew of hit songs, starting with the ubiquitous “Happy” (which first appeared on the soundtrack of hit children’s movie “Despicable Me 2″).

“Bae University” was the title for Williams’ opening performance at the 2014 BET Awards on June 29, and it was definitely a female-friendly class. In the spirit of his album title, the performance featured several dancers and two DJs — all women — with a cameo by rap superstar Missy Elliott. Viernes was one of the DJs onstage.

THE CLASS performed Williams’ catchy, flirty funk song, “Come Get It Bae,”

the third single off “G I R L.” Dancers wore cheerleading skirts, and the entire crew, including Anit, wore Bae University shirts. Williams was the only man onstage among this sea of women, and after taking a look at his album cover, you get the feeling he likes it that way.

DJs were added to the performance to make the song sound more “live and funky,” and Viernes was among them.

She said she had more creative freedom during the performance than expected.

“They didn’t really tell me exactly what to do,” she said. “I ended up doing a lot of scratches during the first verse.”

VIERNES got her invite

to be part of Williams’ BET Awards gig with just three days’ notice. She said there was only one thing to do: get her affairs in order and gigs covered for the week, pack up her turntables and head to Los Angeles for four days of rehearsals before the live performance.

She scored the gig after producing an audition video on the advice of Montreal’s well-connected DJ A-Trak, who agreed to submit it to Williams’ management.

Once in L.A., Viernes said she was prepared to impress Williams’ crew with her talent.

“I started out as a hip-hop DJ, scratching, and I evolved into a club DJ,” she said. “So I wanted to make sure they knew I could scratch.

“You know how Pharrell bobs his head when he’s performing? His team told me if I’m not precise when I drop in a cut, he’ll be able to tell and feel it, and he’ll lose his vibe,” she said. “I wanted to go in there and show them what I’ve got.”

Viernes left Honolulu on June 25, but it was another two days before she would meet Williams in person, when he stopped by a rehearsal to see how things were shaping up.

“PHARRELL would come in for the last hour of rehearsals to perform with us,” she said. “He went out of his way to acknowledge me and talk to me every time, which was really cool of him. I celebrated my birthday while I was there, too!”

Her take on the superstar singer and producer is that he’s “creative and humble,” and for a massive superstar, he seemed “very genuine and spiritual.”

On the day of the performance, Williams’ crew arrived at the Nokia Theater at 8:30 a.m. for a 10 a.m. rehearsal. After that they had several hours before showtime to hang out with dancers and backing bands for all the other acts performing that night.

“Usher, Chris Brown, all of their dancers and DJs were in the same section as us, so we all hung out backstage,” Viernes said. “I got the feeling that in L.A. many of these dancers and DJs run into each other again and again at different events, shoots and backing performances, so they all get to know each other.”

As for future endeavors with Williams, Viernes said she is willing and able to reprise her role.

“You have to be ready to go at the drop of a hat,” she said. “He has a tour in the fall, I’ve heard, so we’ll see. I will be ready if I get the call.”
———
Erin Smith is a singer and guitarist who performs as a solo artist and with Maui-based Na Hoku Hanohano Award-nominated band The Throwdowns. Born in Canada, she moved to Hawaii in 2004 and now resides in Kailua. Contact her via e-mail or follow her on Twitter.

‘Spamalot’ promises over-the-top humor, dance

From left, Tony Young (Sir Robin), Garrett Hols (Sir Lancelot), Kalia Medeiros (Lady of the Lake) and Lawrence Paxton (King Arthur) star in Diamond Head Theatre’s “Spamalot.” (Jamm Aquino / jaquino@staradvertiser.com)

BY STEFANIE NAKASONE / snakasone@staradvertiser.com

Sorry, all you Spam lovers out there. Despite the title, Diamond Head Theatre’s final production of the 2013-14 season has nothing to do with Hawaii’s favorite canned meat.

Instead, “Spamalot” features the steady diet of gut-busting laughs you’d expect from a Monty Python production. The Tony Award-winning musical comedy, created by original Monty Python member Eric Idle, is “lovingly ripped off from” the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” full of rapid-fire humor and showstopping numbers.

The musical not only parodies the King Arthur tale, but also Broadway shows in general, making fun of classics such as “Fiddler on the Roof,” “West Side Story” and the works of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

“I love all the hidden pieces of music from other shows,” actor Tony Young said during a round-table (naturally) interview with the cast earlier this month. “Like, we’ll do something and go, ‘Oh, that’s “Singin’ in the Rain”‘ or ‘That’s “Fiddler on the Roof.”‘ And even dialogue, like I do something and it has to do with ‘Funny Girl’ and ‘People’ and the lyrics.

“The connection to all these things is just fun. It’s pure joy.”

Cast members say they’re convinced that even those who aren’t Monty Python fans will find something to love in “Spamalot.”

The musical, which opens Friday and has already been extended through Aug. 10, has tons of Monty Python’s signature deadpan humor but also includes the silly and goofy, the absurd and the politically incorrect.

Case in point: the number “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway,” which pokes fun at the tradition of Jewish people in theater.

“I just think it’s the funniest thing,” said Garrett Hols (Sir Lancelot) of the over-the-top “Fiddler on the Roof” spoof. “It’s hilarious. I think that’s my favorite scene.”

HONOLULU THEATER veteran Andrew Sakaguchi directs and choreographs the DHT production.

“I usually have a niche type of show, but out-and-out comedy is not what I’m known for,” said Sakaguchi, who has handled past DHT shows such as “Hairspray” and “Legally Blonde,” as well as extravagantly choreographed works by Bob Fosse. “But I’m really lucky. Somebody once told me to be a good director, all you have to do is cast the show well. And that’s exactly what I did.

“I did a brilliant job of casting this show, because I have an amazing group of actors who just step up and they’re fantastic.

“They take chances. Some of them are spot-on Monty Python, and some of them are taking the characters into other comedic directions that completely work and completely serve the show.”

LAURENCE PAXTON stars as King Arthur, who — accompanied by his servant Patsy (played by Venis Goodman) — recruits several familiar characters to form the Knights of the Round Table: Sir Lancelot, Sir Robin (Young), Sir Galahad (Butch DePonte-Merideth) and Sir Bedevere (Braddoc DeCaires).

King Arthur is the comedy’s primary straight man, but he’s nothing like Paxton’s last DHT role: Frank Sr. in the spring production of “Catch Me if You Can.”

“Frank Sr. was a very serious character who went from alcoholism into paranoia to nervous breakdown, so there was nothing fun about that every night,” Paxton joked. “So when Andrew asked if I would do King Arthur — I haven’t laughed so hard, it’s just great. It’s just a gift to do something that’s just funny, funny, funny.”

“And (Paxton) makes us laugh nonstop, too, oh my gosh,” added Kalia Medeiros, who plays the talented and stage-time hungry Lady of the Lake, the lone female lead.

Medeiros joked how she’s onstage only 10 to 15 minutes — something her character laments in song. But she and the rest of the cast agree that one of the positives of the show is that each of the main characters gets a chance to shine.

Even the servant (and sometimes steed) Patsy takes a starring turn when he belts out the most recognizable song in the show, “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” The song is originally from the 1979 Monty Python film “Life of Brian,” and over the years has become a fixture in British culture, as it’s often sung at public events such as soccer matches and was even featured during the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony.

“I hope I do it justice,” said Goodman, who is making his DHT debut after moving to the islands from San Francisco.

ALL BUT three songs in “Spamalot” are original pieces. And those watching the DHT production will have the added bonus of seeing Sakaguchi’s touches, particularly with the dance sequences.

“We have outrageous dance numbers,” Medeiros said. “Andrew has us doing some of the most hysterical, tongue-in-cheek choreography ever. And it’s even funnier because it’s just, like, old white men.

“No offense,” she quickly added as her co-stars roared with laughter.

Laughs are commonplace during rehearsals. After all, the play’s got memorably hilarious bits from “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” including the Black Knight (a favorite of Paxton’s), the Knights of Ni and a killer rabbit.

“It’s fun having fun at our end,” Young said. “We’re enjoying it, and that I think will come across.”

Oh, and in case you’re wondering why it’s called “Spamalot” when there’s nary a glimpse of the iconic blue can or its pink, meaty contents, look no further than “Holy Grail.”

As Idle explained before the play’s Chicago premiere in 2004, the title comes from a line in the movie: “We eat ham and jam and Spam a lot.”

This Week in TGIF: DHT’s ‘Spamalot’

‘Spamalot’ promises over-the-top humor, dance

The Tony Award-winning musical comedy, created by original Monty Python member Eric Idle, is “lovingly ripped off” from the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”

DJ Anit joins Pharrell at BET Awards
Shakespeare Fest begins with Goldsmith
Pau Hana Patrol: The Safehouse
Do It! Prince Lot, Kawaii, Opera Maui, Grouplove
Out ‘N’ About: Ukulele Fest, Sunset Serenade
The Pulse Top 5: Party Wave, Jemere Morgan
Quick Bites: Du Vin, 12th Ave. Grill, Halekulani
Nightclubs: Lux at the Trump, Lush, Goldfinger
Movies: ‘Wish I Was Here,’ ‘Sex Tape’
Stage: Hawaii Shakespeare Fest, ‘Suessical, Jr.’
To Do! Shaggy, Magic!, Courtney Love

PICS: Goodwill Goes Glam

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PHOTOS BY KAT WADE / Special to the Star-Advertiser

The third annual Goodwill Goes Glam! got a fashionable kickoff Thursday with a fashion show and gala at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Designer Paul Brown’s show “Urban Appeal – Eclectic Goodwill!” entertained the crowd, followed by a presale for the VIPs in attendance. Hawaii first lady Nancie Caraway chaired the event, which launches a sale that continues until July 20 and features more than 40,000 items.

VIDEO: The Pulse Minute – 7/18/2014

Gear up for the weekend with “The Pulse Minute” featuring Honolulu Pulse marketing coordinator Laura Grace D’Angeli on Hawaii News Now’s “Sunrise.”

“The Pulse Minute” appears Fridays at 7:50 a.m., showcasing the hottest events as featured in the Star-Advertiser’s TGIF (The Great Index to Fun) and HonoluluPulse.com, Hawaii’s top entertainment and nightlife website.

Grind Time: New Fresh Cafe eyes grand opening

PHOTOS BY JASON GENEGABUS / JASON@STARADVERTISER.COM

A space in the dining room at Fresh Cafe Downtown has been turned into a garden plot to grow fresh mint for the bar.

BY JASON GENEGABUS / jason@staradvertiser.com

After a few months of remodeling and fine-tuning, Fresh Cafe Downtown is ready for its grand opening in the former Indigo space on Nuuanu Avenue, according to owner Tiffany Tanaka. A grand opening blessing and celebration is planned for 5 p.m. Thursday.

Just like the original Fresh Cafe on Queen Street, Tanaka has positioned the new downtown Honolulu location as a multi-use space that will serve as a restaurant, cocktail lounge, coffee bar or performance space, depending on which room you’re in and what day of the week (and even time of day) you visit.

And just like in Kakaako, a lot of time and effort has been put into the menu in accordance with Fresh Cafe’s mission statement to offer “healthy food choices” and promote “creativity, sustainability, local business and fresh ideas.” The statement is prominently displayed in the restaurant to serve as a reminder for customers as well as employees.

Tanaka hosted a private reception this week to preview a number of dishes off the new menu, plus sample sips of signature cocktails developed for the downtown location.

There are plenty of options for seating at Fresh Cafe Downtown. No matter which room you choose, however, you’re in the right place for a good time — according to this sign, at least.

Fried avocado, served with a choice of roasted garlic aioli, ginger wasabi aioli or housemade ranch dressing:

Bacon-wrapped button mushrooms, stuffed with spinach artichoke dip:

Fried baby carrots with a choice of roasted garlic aioli, ginger wasabi aioli or housemade ranch dressing:

Fresh Cafe’s kalua pork nachos with salsa and sour cream:

The Philly pizza, made with roast beef, Swiss cheese, fromage blanc, peppers, onions and mushrooms:

The Pop-Eye pizza, made with marinated artichoke hearts, roasted bell peppers, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, prosciutto and spinach:

The Hawaiian pizza, made with kalua pork, lup cheong, char siu chicken, lomi lomi tomato sauce and chili pepper water:

Miso salmon with bok choy and fennel slaw over white rice:

Garlic-stuffed chicken with picatta sauce served over wild rice and seasoned vegetables:

Bacon bourbon steak with mashed potatoes and spinach salad:

Warm garlic spinach bacon salad with house-blended soy vinaigrette and mushrooms:

Fresh chicken salad with house-blended soy vinaigrette:

Biscuits and gravy, made with Makiki Bake Shop butter biscuits drenched in housemade bacon gravy and served with sausage and eggs:

Fresh Cafe Downtown is located at 1111 Nuuanu Ave. and is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 10 p.m. daily (closed Sundays); also open late for special events. Call (808) 953-7374 or visit freshcafehi.com.
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“Grind Time” is always looking for the latest places to get your grub on. Email Jason Genegabus with restaurant, bar or any other food/drink-related item at jason@staradvertiser.com and follow him on Twitter and Google+.

Pulse Awards voting now open

HONOLULU PULSE STAFF / honolulupulse@staradvertiser.com

Honolulu Pulse readers have spoken and voting is now underway to select the winners of the first-ever Honolulu Pulse Awards. Fill out a ballot online to be eligible to win a Vacations Hawaii voucher good for a round-trip vacation for two from Honolulu to Las Vegas.

Since its launch in 2010, the Pulse has served as a vital source of locally-produced coverage of Honolulu’s arts, entertainment, food and nightlife scenes. More than 200,000 unique visitors access the site every month for the latest news and photo event coverage, plus more than a dozen regular weekly features provided by a team of veteran reporters and bloggers.

Go to honolulupulse.com/pulseawards to vote for winners in more than 40 categories, including Best Nightclub, Best Pizza, Best Twitter and Best Local Band.

Be sure to vote by July 20 to qualify for the Las Vegas trip; you must be 21 years or older to win, but you don’t need to be 21 to participate. One entry per email address. Click here for contest rules.

Once all the votes have been tabulated, the winners will be announced on Aug. 29 at honolulupulse.com and in a special section in TGIF. A special VIP celebration will also take place.

Freestyle: Pacific Ink & Art Expo goes bold

COURTESY RYAN SAKAMOTO

Having a good time at Pacific Ink & Art Expo 2013.

BY ELIZABETH KIESZKOWSKI / ekieszkowski@staradvertiser.com

The Pacific Ink & Art Expo is heading into its third year in Honolulu, and as in previous years, the idea is to go big and go bold.

PACIFIC INK & ART EXPO With special guest Lyle Tuttle » Where: Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, 777 Ward Ave. » When: 2 to 11 p.m. Aug. 1; also noon to 11 p.m. Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 » Cost: $20; $52.50 for three-day pass » Info: (866) 448-7849, ticketmaster.com, pacificinkandartexpo.com, » Note: The PIAE is sponsoring a concert by Southern California punk/ska band Goldfinger on Saturday at The Republik; $25-$30, (855) 235-2867 or flavorus.com

On Thursday, I talked to founder Danny Casler, a 1999 grad from Kalaheo High School, and he was jazzed about the prospects for this year’s event.

“I’m emotionally attached to this thing,” he said, before ticking off a list of attractions, including celebrity tattoo artists, live music, a skateboard ramp, beer garden, and family-friendly activities (tattoo-themed coloring sheets!).

One of the things the expo will bring to Honolulu is the opportunity to meet “pioneers” in the world of body art, who braved social criticism to wear tattoos and to practice tattooing when the custom wasn’t considered cool, as it is now.

Casler told me about old-timer Lyle Tuttle, who is tattooed from neck to feet — and who’ll be at the Pacific Ink & Art Expo. Tuttle became well-known during the psychedelic era (“a free-love kinda guy,” Casler said), and was Janis Joplin’s tattoo artist.

Turns out some old-school tattoo artists didn’t go for Tuttle’s talent for self-promotion. When Rolling Stone put Tuttle on the cover in 1970, Honolulu’s Sailor Jerry, aka Norm Collins, put the page on the bottom of his toilet.

One of the things Casler likes about Tuttle’s presence is that Tuttle now pays deep respect to Collins’ legacy. In Casler’s view, Tuttle’s appearance at Pacific Ink serves to put that feud to rest.

On the other side of the coin, there’s Shanghai Kate, whose career as a tattoo artist stretches back more than 40 years.

“She worked with Sailor Jerry,” Casler said. “These artists have dedicated their lives to the craft. Over the past years, it’s blown up, and it’s a multi-billion dollar industry, but their work goes back before all that.”

THE TATTOO EXPO is open to all kinds, of all ages, Casler said — a place where artists and tattoo enthusiasts feel welcome, with no judgement, and feuds are left behind.

Publicity materials boast that this year will be the biggest ever, and not just because RIMPAC is in town. With a lineup of “legends” in the world of tattoo arts, from Japan, New Zealand, Samoa, South America, the mainland U.S. and Hawaii, about 150 tattoo booths and 50 vendors selling clothing, jewelry and food, there will be plenty of opportunities for celebrity watching, swag shopping and eating local-style grinds in addition to getting inked.

COURTESY TONY GRILLO

Tattoo enthusiasts at the 2013 Pacific Ink Expo.

Celebrity artists include Megan Massacre (Megan Woznicki) from “NY Ink,” Ruthless (Ruth Pineda) from “LA Ink,” Big Gus from “Tattoo Nightmares” and Roman Abrego from “Ink Master.”

The expo will offer a Sailor Jerry Saloon, with beer and cocktails. Musical acts on board include Irie Love, Go Jimmy Go and Kapena. There will be live painting, exhibits of classic cars and bikes, Polynesian performance and Chinese lion dancing, the obligatory bikini contest and even a barber battle for best tattoo-themed hair style.

There is also a Keiki Zone, hosted by Chanel Tanaka, with painting, temporary tattoos, bounce castles and a stage.

I plan to check it out!
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Elizabeth Kieszkowski is editor of TGIF, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s weekly arts and entertainment section. Reach her via email at ekieszkowski@staradvertiser.com or follow her on Twitter.

Take a Bite: Islands to the Bay at CookSpace

COURTESY JASON KIM / COOKSPACE HAWAII

Chefs Louis Maldonado, left, and Colin Hazama win applause following their cooking demonstration and six-course degustation at CookSpace Hawaii.

BY NADINE KAM / nkam@staradvertiser.com

Colin Hazama and Louis Maldonado met when they were culinary students at the California Culinary Academy.

Today Hazama is the executive sous chef at the Sheraton Waikiki and Maldonado is part owner and executive chef of Spoonbar in Healdsburg, Calif. The two friends were reunited during a special collaboration dinner Thursday at CookSpace Hawaii.

The dinner took place just a few hours after Louis’ flight arrived. Just like other recent trips, he’ll be in and out of Honolulu in 48 hours because of his demanding schedule, but he’ll be here just long enough to judge a cooking contest.

The sixth annual Mangoes at the Moana runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, with a mango recipe contest taking place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Hazama will participate in a Mango Throw Down featuring local celebrity chefs in a friendly cooking competition using mango as the main ingredient from noon to 4 p.m.

During the CookSpace demo/dinner/talk story event, the two said they bonded over their love of food and their mixed ethnic heritage. Hazama is Chinese-Japanese and Maldonado is Sicilian-Mexican, so they instantly understood the concept of fusion cuisine before even setting foot in a classroom.

Their collaboration, From the Islands to the Bay, offered both the opportunity to share products they love from Hawaii and the Bay Area.

Here’s a look at what was served:

NADINE KAM / NKAM@STARADVERTISER.COM

The meal started with two pupu, local sourdough toast topped with avocado, radish and kampachi sashimi, and below, chicharonnes with malt vinegar and a dusting of shichimi, served with yogurt poppyseed foam.

NADINE KAM / NKAM@STARADVERTISER.COM

Shaved geoduck clam, chutoro ahi and ikura with pickled herbs and fermented chili.

NADINE KAM / NKAM@STARADVERTISER.COM

Kona abalone roasted in Sonoma Coast seaweed with Naked Cow Dairy butter and porcini bouillon, topped with Kahuku sea asparagus and dainty beech mushrooms.

COURTESY JASON KIM / COOKSPACE HAWAII

I sort of overbooked myself so this was actually my third food stop of the evening, so I missed this Ho Farms salad, which was too bad. It looks delicious with a combination of butternut squash, gerkin cucumber pickles, purple long beans and pearl onions surrounding a gelée of golden Kahuku and mini currant tomatoes.

NADINE KAM / NKAM@STARADVERTISER.COM

Once upon a time we could joke about the way chefs from Japan incorporated corn into every conceivable dish. Looks like we’ve joined in. On the heels of a recent Ante Meridian popup breakfast that included brioche with corn sauce, here, a Guinea hen roulade was coated in sweet corn sauce and accompanied by Kauai shrimp in shellfish emulsion.

NADINE KAM / NKAM@STARADVERTISER.COM

Prickly Ash Sonoma lamb saddle was served with Hawaiian vanilla fondue, a tea-smoked scallop, cilantro essence and peach.

NADINE KAM / NKAM@STARADVERTISER.COM

Dessert was a Pina Colada of coconut truffle gelato made with a Pacojet device, toppings of compressed sugarloaf pineapple and ulu chips, with kaffir lime syrup. Below, chef Colin adds the finishing touch of mango ice. My arm is there, snapping a photo of Mami Yoshimitsu, restaurant sales manager for the Sheraton Waikiki.

COURTESY JASON KIM / COOKSPACE HAWAII

Cookspace Hawaii is located at Ward Warehouse, second floor suite 2360. Call (808) 695-2205 or visit cookspacehawaii.com for roster of classes.
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Nadine Kam is Style Editor and staff restaurant critic at the Honolulu Star-Advertiser; her coverage appears in print on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact her via email at nkam@staradvertiser.com and follow her on Twitter, Instagram and Rebel Mouse.