A benefit concert in support of the Mauna Kea movement switched venues after financial-backers of a Waimea theater threatened to put an end to donations if the show were to go on as planned.
The “We Are Mauna Kea” concert, featuring Hawaiian artists Amy Hanaialii and Willie K, along with John Cruz, Paula Fuga and Hawane Rios, was originally supposed to be held at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. Honokaa People’s Theatre will now host the event.
Melanie Holt of Real Farm is putting on the event. She is married to Kahilu Theatre Artistic Director Tim Bostock, who said there was a perceived conflict of interest since his wife was putting on the concert. He said some people thought that meant the theater supported the movement, which he says is not true.
According to a statement issued by Kahilu via email, the “Kahilu Theatre is strongly neutral in this cause and regrets the confusion to the public. Because the concert was a rental at the theatre, the decision to cancel the concert rests solely with Real Farms.”
The email also said “The presenter Real Farm has decided to cancel the concert because of the severe financial consequences that were building for the Theatre. This was supposed to be a celebration of Mauna Kea, not a divisive event for the community, nor negative for the Kahilu Theatre.”
Bostock said he “deeply apologizes” for the confusion and did not wish to cause any trouble.
“I love the theater and did not mean for this to happen,” he said. “I humbly ask for forgiveness and for people to support the concert at the Honokaa People’s Theatre.”
When asked if he thinks that those who threatened to pull their support will change their mind he said, “Time will tell. We certainly hope so.”
He said the decision to move the concert has also drawn some criticism from the public.
The concert kicks off on Sunday at 4 p.m. and all proceeds will go to KAHEA, the Hawaiian Environmental Alliance, for a new Mauna Kea Education Fund to support promotional materials exploring the historical, cultural, environmental and spiritual significance of the mountain.
Tickets for the concert are $20 general admission in advance, and $30 at the door. A limited number of $50 Gold Circle seats are also available.
All tickets sold from the Kahilu Theatre will be refunded at the theater box office. Those looking for a refund may call 885-6868, or drop in during box office hours 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.