Kamau: The Past, The Present, Hawai'i

Kumu Kahua Theatre and the Center for Biographical Research are co-sponsoring this event that will examine some of the historical events, cultural legacies, and artistic issues that arise in its upcoming production of Alani Apio's Kamau. These free events are funded by the Hawai'i Council for the Humanities, and also co-sponsored by the the Kamakakuokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies, and the Departments of English and of Theatre and Dance.

This event will deal with the issues the play raises about contemporary Hawaiians’ relations to their past through a long history of profound and invasive change. Jonathan Kay Kamakawiwo'ole Osorio, Director of the Kamakakuokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies, will speak about the constant negotiations and struggles faced by Hawaiians since contact to persevere (kamau) as ways change, connections to the past seem to fray, and tensions arise in the Hawaiian community over the appropriate ways to respond to those from outside, and to new aspirations within the community itself.

UHM Department of English Professor Laura Lyons will talk about Kamau as part of larger resistance literature, often the product of decolonization around the world, that often emerges as indigenous or marginalized peoples find a voice through art and performance to assert their identity and will for self-determination.

Playwright Alani Apio will talk about how this play, and its sequel, Kamau A‘e, reflect and extend his own understanding of theatre’s role in addressing contemporary social issues.

Harry Wong III and William T. Kahele, the co-directors of this production, will describe the process of bringing the play to the stage, with Harry Wong, the play’s director in 1994 as well, commenting on how twelve more years of change has affected this new production. A scene from the current production of Kamau with special relevance for the evening’s discussion will also be presented. Questions and discussion will follow.

Event Sponsor
Center for Biographical Research, Manoa

More Information
Craig Howes, 956-3774, craighow@hawaii.edu

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