‘A‘ohe loa i ka hana a ke aloha – Distance is ignored by love

Aloha HOT ‘Ohana,

I was recently reminded of the above phrase, which my husband Danny and I used in our Aloha party when we left San Francisco last year. It speaks to me of our current situation and inspired me to reach out to let you know that you are in our thoughts and our hearts. I’m writing to you at a time of tremendous change that has impacted each of us in ways both small and great. We’re unable to be with friends and family as freely as we’d like, every outing must be weighed in the context of need versus want, and we are depending on technology more than ever before.   

At Hawai‘i Opera Theatre, the novel coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of Salome – which would be in rehearsal right now – and the HOT staff are all working from home to stay healthy and to prepare for when we can once again share the joy of live opera with you and our entire ‘ohana. This has included exploring new ways to engage with the community from isolation, because let’s face it: we need music more than ever. We need moments that connect us to each other and to our humanity, and for me, there is no better source of comfort than opera. 

To help keep the magic of opera alive during this crisis, we are using the amazing talents of the HOT staff to find creative options for staying connected with each other and with you. If you haven’t checked out our website – www.hawaiiopera.org – lately, please do so as we are adding new content weekly, including playlists, videos, and more. There will also be engaging content for keiki and their families, as education holds a place of honor in our mission. 

Thank you for your continued dedication to Hawai‘i Opera Theatre. As we navigate the challenging weeks and months ahead, your support will allow us to come back stronger than ever. Together, we will make it possible for this cherished cultural institution to flourish today and for years to come. 

We wish you and your loved ones good health and safe harbor during this difficult time. 

Mahalo Nui Loa for all you do, 

Andrew Morgan 

General Director