Last night marked another year of "Celebrate!," the gala concert produced by the Arts Alliance of Hawaii at the historic Hawaii Theatre. The Ambassador of Aloha, Danny Kaleikini welcomed everyone and got the program going as our emcee. Before you could catch your breath, the Taiko Center of the Pacific's Youth Group were getting eveyone's heart going with their high energy drumming. I think you could hear them a block away. Aunty Irmigard Aluli's grandson, Noa Pulama Lee showed that with some practice, you can wow the crowd at a mere 14 years of age. He was followed by our friend, Neal Chin, performing 3 original compositions on the ukulele. After the break, the Alliance honored Keiji and Edith Kawakami (founders of Iolani Sportswear) for their lifetime support and patronage of the arts and music community. Many of their personal collections are on loan to various organizations. The evening then showcased the legendary musician and independent film producer, Uncle Eddie Kamae as he paid his personal tribute to the Kawakamis. He was followed by the father-son duo of Dennis and David Kamakahi, getting the audience into their smooth style and making everyone sheer as they closed their set with Wahine Ilikea. As the night was coming to a close, the perfect act brought down the house. Manoa DNA, Lloyd, Nick and alex Kawakami (son and grandson's of the Kawakamis) showed everyone why they are currently on contract with HTJ to promote Hawaii in Japan. Lloyd was a regular in the C&K band back in the day while Alex has been called a baby James Taylor. Nick provides the color and with. Much mahalo to Marla Musick and Stacy Hoshino for their hard work, coordination and special productions attached to the evening. Kudos to executive director Marilyn Christofori for assembling such a wonderful staff and board. Hope to see you all come out next year to enjoy a night of song and learn a little about our organization.  (no pix, special contract of the Hawaii Theatre) 

Tags: Arts Alliance, Celebrate!, David Kamakahi, Dennis Kamakahi, Eddie Kamae, Manoa DNA, Neal Chin

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