2nd Annual Puna Music Festival Begins This Weekend

Rock out on the rock for ten days straight at the Puna Music Festival from May 19 to May 28. Performers include Paula Fuga, Kuana Torres Kahele, Medicine for the People, Jane Lui, Kainani, Kahaunaele, Blue Star Octave and more.

The schedule is jam-packed with workshops, special screenings, Native Hawaiian cultural activities, classes, jam sessions and open mic. There are also events that feature delectable food with perfectly paired music.

Here’s what’s happening at the music fest this weekend on May 19 and May 20.

Saturday May 19, enjoy an “intimate” evening with Kuana Torres Kahele for $35 general and $75 VIP. The VIP ticket includes dinner with the singer-songwriter, who in 2012 was nominated ten times for the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. His solo album “Kuanaloa,” debuted at number 1 on the World Music Billboard Chart. His vocal range will give rise to chicken skin.

Throughout the evening, Kahele will beautifully relate his past experiences through song and talk-story sessions. The pre-show dinner begins at 5 p.m. This event takes place at Kalani EMAX located at 12-6860 Kalapana-Kapoho Rd., halfway between Kalapana and Opihikao. Call 808-965-7828 for ticket and performance information.

On Sunday May 20, that chill, breathy rasp of Paula Fuga will headline a free outdoor concert from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Pohoiki, otherwise known as the Isaac Hale Beach Park. This 2007 Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner and American Idol contestant has a kind of soulful sweet sass that reverberates into your bones. Fuga will close the day’s performances, which include local talent such as Mark Yamanaka, Puna Mens Chorus, Sean Robbins and Uncle Roberts ohana.

For more information visit www.punamusicfestival.com.