This September, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Department of Theatre & Dance and Kennedy Theatre invite audiences into a world where imagination becomes survival. The Yellow Boat, a Theatre for Young Audiences production directed by MFA candidate Emmanuel Mante, shares the true story of Benjamin, a boy born with hemophilia whose boundless creativity helps him navigate illness, loss, and ultimately, an HIV diagnosis.
“This isn’t just a children’s show—it’s a heartfelt experience for all ages,” said Mante. “It celebrates how the human spirit turns pain into art and illness into beauty. It’s imaginative uplifting, and transformative.”
The production runs September 24–28, at the Earle Ernst Lab Theatre.
While Benjamin’s life is shaped by hospital visits, isolation, and loss, his imagination offers him freedom. He turns to drawing, coloring, and storytelling to express what words cannot. In one poignant scene, he colors with his doctor as the only way to explain his pain.
Imaginative staging
The production’s artistic team help transform the story for the stage. Set designer and theatre major Juliana Damrow uses reconfigurable pieces and everyday objects to reflect how children reshape their world through play. Lighting designer Kelli Finnegan adds expressive colors and projections that mirror Benjamin’s sketches, including the symbolic yellow boat he draws.
The production also weaves in cultural elements. Costumes by Amber Baker feature handwoven Filipino textiles. Choreographers Nani Marcos and Gwen Arbaugh layer movement into the story, while music director Paul Gabriel Cosme provides live accompaniment.
“Each costume is a celebration of Filipino artistry and heritage,” Mante said. “Hawaiʻi’s multicultural environment makes this kind of storytelling feel especially resonant.”
Although filled with joy and imagination, The Yellow Boat also faces difficult truths of illness, isolation and loss. Benjamin’s story ends with his passing, portrayed by the cast with care and sensitivity. Families are encouraged to reflect on these themes and join the post-show discussion on Friday, September 26, with the director and cast.
Ticket information
Performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets range $9–$18.
Content Advisories: Covers health issues and suffering, such as hemophilia and HIV.
