Fuga Headlines Great Waikoloa ‘Ukulele Festival

Hundreds of ‘ukulele players of all ages will take the stage during the 15^th Annual Great Waikoloa ‘Ukulele Festival, hosted by the Waikoloa Beach Resort, on Saturday, March 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A stage will be set-up in both the Kings’ Shops and Queens’ MarktetPlace for ‘ukulele concerts performed by all skill levels, from children to some of the most legendary entertainers and hottest stars in Hawaiian music. Throughout the day, prizes and ‘ukulele giveaways will be given away by sponsoring companies.

In addition to performances, Roy Sakuma will hold a free ‘ukulele workshop in the Monarchy Ballroom at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Highlighting and closing the event at 6 p.m. will be Paula Fuga, a self-described “musician with a mission” to share Hawai’i’s cultural voice and rhythm with the world, who will take the stage at the Queens’ MarketPlace.

As a homeless nine-year-old, Fuga dreamed of becoming a superstar. In middle school, she began to play the flute. She also took lessons to help her with her singing and songwriting from Roy Sakuma, the founder of ‘Ukulele Festival Hawai’i.

Fuga appeared at an “American Idol” audition in 2004, and although she didn’t make the cut, the experience led her to her chart-topping album “Lilikoi” and Nā Hōkū Hanohano’s title of Most Promising Artist of the Year.

These days, Fuga can be found traveling the world and sharing the spotlight with artists like Jack Johnson.

For more information, including a full schedule of the event, visit Waikoloa Beach Resort’s website or call (808) 886-8822.