8 Maui finalists selected for CNHA’s ‘Hawaiʻi to the World Television Talent Competition’; Live audition June 29 at the MACC

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement announced the eight Maui finalists who will compete at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on Sunday, June 29, for Hawai‘i to the World Television Talent Competition. These artists were selected for their exceptional talent and deep connection to Hawai‘i’s cultural heritage.

Click here to watch a special highlight reel of the eight finalists, with performances appearing in the order listed below: 

• ʻĀinaty
• Pono Beatbox
• S.O.S. Hoas
• Leimana Purdy
• TJ & the Maui Country Band
• Max Angel
• Silky Sister
• Namaka Pauʻole

These finalists will showcase performances ranging from traditional music and storytelling to contemporary musical styles.

“Mahalo nui to all that submitted audition videos. We were truly blown away by the level of talent and dedication displayed by all the contestants,” said Blaine Miyasato, CNHA Chief Brand Officer and Executive Producer. “The finalists selected embody the spirit and exceptional talent found across our islands. We can’t wait to see them take the stage live on June 29.”

Hawai‘i to the World will be held on Sunday, June 29, at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. The eight finalists will compete live before the show’s panel of core judges: Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom, Patrick Makuakāne, Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu (Kumu Hina), and Lehua Kalima, who will be joined by guest judge for Maui, Keali‘i Reichel. The show will also feature talent advisor Shawn Kekoa Pimental, and host McKenna Maduli.

One of the finalists will be selected by the judges to compete in the finale on Dec. 14 at the Ko Olina Resort on O‘ahu. A second “wild card” finalist will be selected by the public following the airing of the Hawai‘i to the World television show’s Maui episode on Sunday, Nov. 2 that will be televised on Hawai‘i News Now.

“Through Hawai‘i to the World, we are finding talent that helps us create our own message of Hawai‘i, one defined not by outside expectations, but by our people,” said Kūhiō Lewis, CEO of CNHA and co-creator of the show. “What’s truly special about Hawai‘i is our community and culture, and we are proud to showcase these incredible performers to the world.”

General admission tickets to the live taping on June 29, at 4 p.m. is $40. For tickets or ticketing information, visit the MACC website.   

For full rules, waivers, and the latest updates, visit www.hawaiiancouncil.org/auditions.