Oni Foundation fundraiser to support cultural preservation & youth empowerment, July 20

The Oni Foundation will take guests on a journey through Polynesia at its summer fundraiser on July 20 at the Maui Beach Hotel’s Moana Ballroom in Kahului. The event will feature an evening of cultural performance, dining and music.

Funds raised will go towards facility upgrades at the Wonderful World of Aloha Center and will be used for the foundation’s Cultural Ambassador Internship Program.

“We look forward to celebrating the spirit of Polynesia, while helping us make a crucial investment in our physical space and our future leaders,” said Keoni Manuel, Oni Foundation president and creative director. “The funds raised will allow us to create a more immersive experience at the Wonderful World of Aloha Center and, most importantly, provide our Cultural Ambassador interns with meaningful opportunities to grow. We believe that by sharing our culture, we help it thrive, and we can’t wait to share this special evening with our supporters and friends.”

The centerpiece of the evening is a special dinner show featuring Kumu Keoni’s “World Famous Polynesian Spectacular.” The show includes a 60- to 75-minute performance by ʻAumakua Productions, celebrating the rich traditions of the Pacific Islands.

Festivities start at 4 p.m. with check-in, followed by a dinner buffet at 5 p.m., and the main show at 6 p.m. A no-host bar and live music will be available throughout the event. Please note that exact times may be subject to change.

A highlight of the fundraiser will be a silent auction, accessible through a convenient live auction app. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on an array of items, including unique artifacts and collectibles, original works of art, hotel staycations, and a Wonderful World of Aloha Annual Membership, among other treasures.

Event proceeds will directly fund crucial facility upgrades for the Wonderful World of Aloha Center, located on the second floor of Queen Kaʻahumanu Center (next to the Fun Factory). These enhancements include fresh paint and upgraded lighting for the galleries, the installation of new LED “skylight” fixtures and four 98″ LED screens for the stage, new stage curtains, and improved dressing rooms. Funds will also support the completion of the world map mural and new murals for the East and West Galleries.

Furthermore, the fundraiser will support the Oni Foundation’s Cultural Ambassador Internship Program. This vital initiative provides paid, on-the-job experience and mentorship for aspiring professionals in cultural industry operations, presentation, performance, business management and visitor services.

Tickets for this special event are priced at $100 for adults (ages 13 and up) and $75 for children (ages 4-12).

To purchase tickets and to review the silent auction items, visit OniFoundation.org.

The Oni Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to perpetuating the multicultural heritage of Hawaiʻi through dance and arts. Through cultural classes, workshops, and performances, the Foundation strives to create accessible and enriching experiences for both residents and visitors, fostering an appreciation for the diverse traditions that make Hawaiʻi unique.