Na Hoku Hanohano Awards Winners In Concert at the MACC

By Kristin Hashimoto

Yokouchi Pavilion at the MACC, photo courtesy Aubrey Hord & MACC.

There’s always been a bit of mystery surrounding the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. From how the nominees get picked to exactly who, and how the votes are tabulated. Then there’s the bit of disconnect from awards to live performances, as favorite artists collect their awards, but few of us get to see them live, in-person. Well that last part ends on July 16, as the Maui Arts and Cultural Center presents the first annual, Na Hoku Hou awards winners concert.

From 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the Yokouchi Pavillion at the MACC, will feature 2011 Na Hoku winners: Mark Yamanaka, Kainani Kahaunaele, Hot Club of Hulaville and Kalapana.

Debut artist, Big Islander, and Johnny Lum Ho alum, Mark Yamanaka garnered a whopping four Na Hoku awards. This is a feat accomplished only by C & K and Keali’i Reichel.

Kainani Kahaunaele, image courtesy of the MACC

Kalapana received a lifetime achievement award, and Kahaunaele was nominated for eight awards and walked away with two Na Hoku’s, by the end of the night. The Hot Club of Hulaville received the award for the best Jazz album of the year with their gypsy Jazz styling.

Tickets are on sale now at the MACC box office for $25, and $40 for premium seats. Call 808-242-7469 (SHOW) for tickets, or visit www.mauiarts.org.