Hawai‘i Opera Theatre presents "The Sheltering Tree," the first professional Hawaiian Opera, celebrating culture and history. Discover the magic of Hawaiian Opera.
Introduction to Hawai‘i Opera Theatre’s Groundbreaking Initiative
Hawai‘i Opera Theatre (HOT) has embarked on an extraordinary artistic endeavor that marks a defining moment in its history. The initiative is the creation of the first professional Hawaiian opera, which seamlessly intertwines traditional Hawaiian culture with the dramatic art form of opera. This project signifies an intersection of storytelling, historical homage, and cultural preservation, representing a significant advancement in both the world of opera and the cultural representation of Hawai‘i.
Through this initiative, HOT aims to reimagine opera as a medium that resonates deeply with local communities and reflects the unique heritage of the islands. This effort not only underscores HOT’s commitment to inclusivity but also underscores its dedication to elevating underrepresented voices in performing arts.
A collaborative approach has been central to this undertaking, with cultural practitioners, historians, and composers working closely to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
Key objectives of the project include:
- Empowering the Hawaiian community by spotlighting its culture through a widely respected art form.
- Expanding opera’s boundaries by incorporating non-Western traditions.
- Using our platform to teach audiences about the importance of Hawaiian language and heritage.
The project also seeks to provide a model for other opera companies to celebrate localized cultural identities while embracing global art forms.
Significance of the First Professional Hawaiian Opera
The creation of the first professional Hawaiian opera represents a pivotal moment in both the artistic and cultural history of Hawai‘i. This endeavor is significant because it resonates with the indigenous and historical narrative of Hawaiians, ushering a platform for their stories, language, and traditions to be preserved and celebrated. It elevates Hawaiian culture into the realm of classical opera, a traditionally Western art form, symbolizing the fusion of global influences with the vibrant heritage of the islands.
The opera will be sung in both ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and English. By incorporating this endangered language into a professional opera, it amplifies efforts to revitalize and normalize its use in contemporary contexts. This artistic integration reinforces the importance of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, not only as a mode of communication but as a repository of Hawaiian knowledge, history, and worldview.
THE TEAM
Victoria Nālani Kneubuhl - Librettist
Herb Mahelona - Composer
Kumu Hula Patrick Keʻaniniʻulaokalani Makuakāne - Director & Choreographer
Nola A. Kapualehuaopaneʻewa Nāhulu - Choral Director
Kauʻi Sai-Dudoit - Historian
Dramaturg - Kip Cranna
Lance Inouye - Conductor
THE CAST
TIMOTEO KAMALEHUA HAʻALILIO
Quinn Kamakanalani Kelsey
KAUIKEAOULI (KAMEHAMEHA III)
Manase Tapuaki Mei Langi Latu
WILLIAM RICHARDS (RIKEKE)
Joshua Jeremiah
HANA HOOPER HAʻALILIO
Tasha Hokuao Koontz
ALEXANDER SIMPSON
Brendan Boyle
KEKĀULUOHI
Blythe Iakuinipuaʻokahana Kelsey
CLARISSA LYMAN RICHARDS
Leslie Louise Goldman
JAMES FOWLE BALDWIN MARSHALL
Adam Flowers
CAPT. LORD GEORGE PAULET & RICHARD CHARLTON
Kip Wilborn
DANIEL WEBSTER
Dr. David Young
LORD ABERDEEN
Erik D. Haines
A RETAINER
Thomas ʻEleu Chock (from Chorus)
The Cultural and Historical Context of Hawaiian Opera
The islands of Hawai‘i possess a rich oral tradition that has sustained the legacy of its indigenous culture for centuries. Hawaiian mele (songs) and oli (chants) are foundational elements in preserving stories, genealogies, and spiritual beliefs. These art forms embody a deeply ingrained sense of connection between the Hawaiian people and the land (‘āina), the sea (kai), and the cosmos. The adaptation of these traditions into opera brings an opportunity to amplify their value through contemporary artistic platforms, ensuring their relevance for newer generations while honoring their traditional roots.
Hawaiian history itself is steeped in narratives that are ripe for operatic interpretation. From the legendary tales of Pele, the fire goddess of Hawai‘i, to the real-life struggles of Hawaiians during colonization and annexation, these stories offer themes of resilience, loss, empowerment, and identity—facets that resonate universally and align with the grandeur and emotive power of opera as a genre. Exploring these themes through Hawaiian opera provides a culturally specific lens, enriching the global tapestry of operatic performance.
However, the creation of a professional Hawaiian opera is not solely about artistic expression; it is also an act of cultural reclamation and restoration. The forced suppression of Hawaiian language and practices under colonial rule affected generations, making the revitalization of native traditions a central undertaking of modern Hawaiian artists.
The collaboration between Hawai‘i Opera Theatre and creative team members Victoria Nālani Kneubuhl (librettist), Herb Mahelona (composer), Kumu Hula Patrick Keʻaniniʻulaokalani Makuakāne (director & choreographer), Nola A. Kapualehuaopaneʻewa Nāhulu (choral director), and Kauʻi Sai-Dudoit (historian) reflects a bridge between contemporary artistry and historical authenticity. Our hope is that this initiative contributes to broader global conversations about indigenous representation within classical art forms.
Challenges in Developing a Hawaiian Professional Opera
Creating the first professional Hawaiian opera presents unique and intricate challenges. Integrating Hawaiian culture into an art form with European origins requires navigating differences in storytelling, musical traditions, and cultural protocols.
One significant challenge lies in mastering the Hawaiian language, which plays a pivotal role in authentically representing the culture. Few in the opera world are fluent in ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, so sourcing librettists, composers, and performers who honor the language’s nuances is complex. Misrepresentation or linguistic errors could lead to cultural misunderstandings, making accuracy paramount.
Additionally, opera demands enormous financial and logistical resources, and creating a production grounded in Hawaiian traditions increases the complexity. Securing funding for the development of new, culturally specific works remains an uphill battle, especially when it extends beyond standard operatic repertoire.
Most importantly, there is the responsibility to address historical traumas tied to colonization sensitively. The opera must honor and respect the depth of Hawaiian history and identity without reducing it for theatrical purposes. Balancing these considerations is crucial for success.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Hawaiian Arts and Culture
The creation of the first professional Hawaiian opera by the Hawai‘i Opera Theatre marks a pivotal moment for the intersection of classical opera and indigenous artistry. This groundbreaking endeavor not only highlights the depth and vibrancy of Hawaiian culture but also challenges conventions within the opera tradition. Unlike traditional narratives often presented in the Western canon, this opera weaves together Hawaiian language, history, and culture, offering new perspectives while fostering a greater appreciation for Native Hawaiian identity.
By embracing Hawaiian storytelling traditions and adapting them to the operatic form, the project amplifies indigenous voices within a genre historically dominated by European influences. Hawaiian kupuna (elders) and cultural practitioners have contributed valuable insights to ensure authenticity, with their collaborative efforts shaping musical compositions, libretto development, and the integration of hula and chant. The result honors the native roots of the islands while demonstrating the universality of opera as an expressive medium.
This initiative also serves as a bridge between the past and the future. The inclusion of ʻŌlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language) in the opera reinforces efforts to revitalize linguistic heritage across the islands. It provides audiences, both local and global, an immersive experience that deepens their understanding of Hawai‘i’s cultural legacy.
Hawai‘i Opera Theatre’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries speaks to a larger movement of cultural reclamation and innovation. By cultivating space for Hawaiian stories on international stages, this project invites ongoing dialogue and exploration of how ancient traditions and contemporary artistry intersect.