Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole
Aloha state of mind
Friday, Jan. 25, 2019
7:30 p.m. // Discovery Theatre
Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole (pronounced Kao-mah-kah-EE-vah Kah-nah-kah-OH-ley) knows her roots, and she savors and celebrates them.
Heralded as the emerging voice of Hawaii's new generation, her songs and chants in her native language are steeped in the island's lush landscape, her heritage, and her history. From a family whose contributions to Hawaiian art and culture stretch back eight matrilineal generations, Kanaka'ole's range is as remarkable as Hawaii's ancient traditions. She deftly transitions from booming contralto to sharp soprano − she calls the latter her "skinny girl voice" − and also incorporates dance.
Her performances range from soulful to sly as she sprinkles her songs with playful commentary and storytelling. Award-winning musician and producer Shawn Pimental accompanies her on guitar and backup vocals.
Transport yourself to the islands with this remarkable and riveting performer.Tickets start at $40.25 for adults and $30.50 for youth. Federal employees and their families can get free tickets with government ID at the CenterTix box office in the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. Subject to availability. Learn more
“Kanaka'ole … vaulted through various registers and timbres, from bass to witchy contralto rasp to sweet soprano, ... a traditionalist tour de force.” –The New York Times
TYPE OF EVENING
Cultural treasure
An island escape
WHAT TO EXPECT
Deep Hawaiian roots and immense talent
Primal power of hula
COME WITH
Connection to land and life
Pre-show events
Arrive early for lei making, appetizers from Hula Hands, and more, coordinated by Na Keiki O Hawaii Hawaiian Civic Club. 6-7:15 pm in the Voth Hall.
Post-show Q&A
Enjoy a post-show dialogue with the artists in the Voth Hall, immediately following the performance.
In the community
In addition to this performance, Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole is working alongside our partner, Na Keiki O Hawaii Hawaiian Civic Club, in special performances and community conversations around Anchorage. She is also teaching hula classes and East and West high schools.
Free tickets to federal employees
Anchorage Concert Association is offering free tickets for this show to federal employees and their families during the government shutdown. For tickets, show government ID in person at the CenterTix box office in the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. Learn more
