New Community Theater Group to Debut Musical in Kea‘au

Cast members of “For a Time Such as This” include local talent of all ages. Photo courtesy of The Shalom Players.

A new community theater group is premiering an original, full-length musical in Kea‘au on June 16, 17 and 18. Written and scored by local talent, “For Such a Time as This” will debut at Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘iʻs Lunalilo Center.

Based on the book of Esther, the musical is described as “an ancient story with a modern message” exploring the triumph of “faith and courage over evil.”

“For Such a Time as This” is written and directed by local teacher and playwright Susie Chun. Scoring and additional lyrics were written by Kamehameha School choral director and composer Herb Mahelona. Dancer and teacher, Kea Kapahua, is the choreographer. The cast is made up of 31 local actors, singers and dancers of all ages.

Performances will happen on Friday, June 16, at 7 p.m., Saturday, June 17, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 18, at 2 p.m.

In honor of Fatherʻs Day, the June 18 performance will include a special surprise for audience members who are fathers.

Tickets are $15 for all ages. They are available for purchase online or locally at Basically Books in downtown Hilo, Simply Said, the Wedding Store in Prince Kuhio Plaza, and Kea‘au Natural Foods. If available, tickets may also be purchased at the door 45 minutes prior to each showing.

Kamehameha Schoolʻs Lunalilo Center is located at 16-716 Volcano Road in Kea‘au.

The new theater group performing the show, called the Shalom Players, aims to bring quality theater to the community with relevant, positive messages.

For more information, visit www.forsuchmusical.org or contact Susie Chun at estherplay2017@gmail.com.