Hilo Community Players Present: Ke Kauā o Ka Lāhui– The Life of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Piʻikoi

Hilo Community Players proudly present Ke Kauā o Ka Lāhui, a compelling historical drama tracing the life of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Piʻikoi. Written by renowned playwright Victoria Nālani Kneubuhl and directed by celebrated educator and artist Jackie Pualani Johnson, this original production brings to life one of Hawaii’s most significant aliʻi and political figures.

The play runs May 2^nd–18^th, 2025, at the Keawe Theater, 280 Keawe Street, Hilo. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, and Sundays at 2:30 PM. Tickets are available at HiloPlayers.org.

Spanning the years 1871 to 1922, Ke Kauā o Ka Lāhui explores Kūhiō’s childhood in a royal household, his resistance to the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, his time in prison, and his eventual service as a delegate to the U.S. Congress. Through movement and powerful storytelling, the play honors his steadfast dedication to the Hawaiian people.

The production features Ray Campainha as Prince Kūhiō, with Robert Duerr, Amy Erece, Evette Ewalani Tampos, Ray Ryan, Jon Sakurai-Horita, Ethan Longboy, and Malia MJ Ke Aloha Ford portraying a broad spectrum of historical figures and citizens. Ensemble members breathe life into the era with characters such as Queen Liliʻuokalani, King Kalākaua, and Robert Wilcox.

A celebration of cultural memory and resilience, Ke Kauā o Ka Lāhui invites audiences to witness history through the eyes of those who lived it.

Seating is limited so advanced reservations are recommended. Tickets cost $5 more at the door, if available. Concessions will be available, and proceeds support Hilo Community Players programming. Entrance to the Keawe Theater requires ascending a flight of stairs, so those requiring accommodations are asked to contact the hilocommunityplayers@gmail.com 5 days in advance for arrangements.