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FeedStories by Moonlight
Celebrating the Custom of Community Storytelling
Twilight at Kalahuipuaa, or Talk Story as the locals call it, is a monthly gathering of kamaaina (native-born and locals) and tourists alike that celebrates the tradition of storytelling through music, dance and spoken word. The Eva Woods Parker Cottage is a small hale (house) situated on a narrow scruff of land between the Kalahuipuaa Fishponds and the Pacific Ocean at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, and is the ideal setting for this intimate night of entertainment and history. The simple stage that is the front lanai (porch) of the cottage sets the precedence for a humble and enchanted evening rich in spirit.
A monthly event created by Danny Akaka Jr., the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows’ Director of Cultural Affairs, is held every Saturday closest to the full moon. Twilight at Kalahuipuaa is a 3-hour unscripted event that recalls a simpler time when friends, family and neighbors gathered to share and “talk story.” The path to the venue meanders along fishponds to the grassy lawn where people situate their beach chairs, picnic blankets and baskets, and friends and families settle in for an evening of aloha and entertainment.
The event is free and often hosts award-winning musicians, accomplished dancers and local characters. You never know what the month’s Talk Story will bring, whether it’s a shy kupuna (elder) with many stories to share about old Hawaii, or a famous musical group who has stopped by to reconnect with their roots. It is not unusual for friends of the performers to be pulled onstage to gift the audience with a story, dance, or song of their own. The evening is one of spontaneity, joy and contribution.
Regardless of who shows up, the evening never disappoints. In fact, those who attend leave emblazoned with feelings of warmth, humor and wonder. It’s a unique island experience, a rare find for many visitors and a reminder to all those in attendance why Hawaii is such an exceptional and cherished place.
For more information on Twilight at Kalahuipuaa, call The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows at (808) 885-6622, ext. 7065.
