“An Evening at the Stork Club” returns to the Big Island to launch the 12th annual Hawaii Performing Arts Festival.
More than 20 live performances are scheduled during this summer’s festival, which runs July 1-31.
The 1940-50s-themed “Stork Club” event features acclaimed New York City pianist and entertainer Phil Kadet, vocalists Ashley Lambert, Justin John Moniz and David Castilio, under the direction of HPAF Artistic Director Val Underwood 7 p.m. July 1 at Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, and 7 p.m. July 2 at Palace Theater in Hilo.
From 1929-65, The Stork Club in New York City was one of the most prestigious nightclubs in the world. Kennedys and Roosevelts, The Duke and Duchess of Windsor and other celebrities made The Stork Club their favorite place to see and be seen. Grace Kelly’s engagement to Prince Rainier of Monaco hit the news while the couple dined at The Stork Club. Socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean lost the Hope Diamond under a table there during an exuberant evening and Ernest Hemingway settled his Stork Club tab by cashing a $100,000 check for the film rights to For Whom the Bell Tolls.
In keeping with the Stork Club theme, prizes will be awarded for the best 1940s and 1950s costumes.
“Of course, costumes aren’t required but a chance to ‘dress up’ really adds to the fun and festivity of the evening,” said Genette Freeman, HPAF executive director. “It’s a wonderful program full of music by Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, Rodgers and Hammerstein and many others, performed by some of our favorite young musicians. Who could ask for anything more?”
Tickets are $65 and can be purchased online at www.hawaii-performingartsfestival.org.
Info: 333-7378. ■