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'Ulalena
Rating Details »
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
22 reviews for 'Ulalena
I enjoyed this show. My parents looked it up and picked it out, so I had no idea what it was about or what to expect. It was very well done and explained the history of Hawaii and some of the legends. It is a theatrical performance with talented actors and singers. The percussionists were also extremely talented. They did a great job and made the show much more real and alive.
One actor is an acrobat and does a cirque de solei-esque performance. She plays a waterfall and the moon. It was amazing to watch her move and suspend herself from the fabric.
The theater was quite cool and comfortable when we went on 8/28/09. They also served both alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. I enjoyed my pina colada.
I recommend this show if you like theatrical performances and learning about historical events.
At first looking through the brochure I thought this was a movie like in I-MAX about the history of the Hawaiian people...turns out it's more of a live theatrical performance. So I was really excited to see a live show out here in Maui...
The Good:
- Interesting story telling through song, music, dance and theatre all in one performance.
- The drum/sound effect/musicians were so awesome!
- The dancing was sort of a modernized hula dance.
- The little details of the show was great, like how they portrayed the immigrants or the sea.
- They do validate for the Lahiana Center across the street, so park over there
- they have a dinner and show package with a discounted dinner at Ruth Chris Steakhouse
The bad:
-the alcoholic beverages are on the pricey side.
- the seats are a bit squeaky and need some WD-40
- they were having some technical difficulties which led to an awkward silence in the beginning
- more technical difficulties after first set and so they had to repeat everything from the beginning.
- the "cirque de soleil" part was pretty weak.
- pictures taken with the "pretty" cast members were $20.
Overall, this was a great show. I'm glad I was able to experience a little bit of modern culture while on Maui. But just don't expect it to be a huge "cirque" type show. But try to notice the subtle details of the show and you'll appreciate it more.
People thought this was:
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A good idea and a fine effort by a willing cast and a game crew.
Some good moments: In particular, the number depicting first contact between Europeans and the Hawaiians was extremely effective. And the stage effects were fun, hinting at 'Ulalena's Cirque D' Soleil pedigree.
Ultimately however, the experience was unsatisfying. More historical substance, native biased commentary and raw drama might have helped. Hawaiian history, after all, offers some fairly dramatic material from which to craft a show. Most of Maui's historical offerings come from a decidedly missionary or industrial point of view. 'Ulalena was, for me, the chance for Hawaii and Hawaiians to speak for themselves. Alas if I believed this show a real indicator (and I don't), I would have to conclude neither has much to say.
On the whole, I thought 'Ulalena merely okay.
People thought this was:
- Cool (1)
We enjoyed the show but compared to broadway and vegas, this was a small production. The show was performed well and the music was awesome. I did get the story though. Even with the program, I was lost after the third scene. Some of the scenes were drawn out and the story gets lost but the acting, dancing, singing, music was top notch. We sat in standard seating and it is as good as any other seat in the place since it is very small (~300). They try to upsell but it'snot needed. Parking is validate for 4 hours in the Lahaina Center across the street. One thing they try to do to make more money off you is that they take a picture with you and some of the actors and then ask for $20 for it after the show. I guess this happens at the Luaus too. This show is worth a look if you are into performing arts. It is something different to experience on the Island.
My husband and I experienced Ulalena while on our honeymoon in Maui. We read the great reviews on Yelp and together with positive comments from our concierge, we were convinced it would be a memorable experience. We got a great discount on the "VIP" package which included front section seats, post-show time with the cast, and dinner after the show at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Lahaina.
We had considered going to the Old Lahaina Luau but even though we read great reviews, our concierge insisted that "it really isn't a great luau if you've never been to one before", so we chose Ulalena instead.
My husband and I are both professional classical musicians so perhaps we had higher than normal expectations. I like to think we were just hoping for an impressive cultural theatrical experience - this was not delivered. As soon as the show began, we both looked at eachother, wondering if we should leave. The story is vague and full of holes, let alone everything is sung or chanted in Hawaiian.
One review called Ulalena a "Cirque de Soleil" level performance. I think not - there was one acrobat and her acts were good but by no means stunning in their virtuosity.
This show was a MAJOR disappointment - the actors are definitely dedicated to their work (and that's the only reason this review receives any stars from me!) but simply put, this show would fall flat in any major city on the mainland. Frankly, I expected more from the show, considering that they cater to tourists from around the world.
Definitely go if you're looking for a "Hawaiian experience" off the beaten path. But if you're visiting Maui from a cosmopolitan area or you have an appreciation for cultural arts, skip it. Personally, we both wished we'd spent the evening enjoying a sunset stroll on Ka'anapali Beach.
You cannot bring camera's or recording devices. Even though there were signs in the Lobby and they announced before the show started. There was an idiot sitting near the front of the stage who brought his camcorder on a monopod and sat there drinking and recording the show the whole time. Grrrrr!!!!
I recommend this show! If you visit Lahaina, you have to go. It's worth the expense. I loved it. My husband and I just went on our last night in Hawaii (Friday, 10/23/09). We bought the VIP dinner (Ruths Chris) + show. It's the only way to go, it saves you money and you don't have to think about what's for dinner after or before the show. It was fantastic! It gives you a good sense of Hawaii. From the music to the props I have to say it was super! It's an all live performance, the singing is real people, sound effects are all done by a percussion team. The show keeps you entertained completely, no sooner did it begin, it ended. It really moved me to tears at some points. There was one confusing part - I didn't quite understand the two friends fighting over a girl part (or what seemed to be a fight). I wish they had someone announce where to meet the cast members and that it was the end of the show. I think it was pretty clear that the end came, but it just needed an announcement or something. I saw one of the cast members after the show at Ruths Chris steak house it was a great night! We were suppose to meet the cast members but there was noone to guide us all the theatre doors opened and everyone poured out. So off we went. That was the only bummer part.
With no expectations, as the tickets were a gift, we were impressed with the facility for a small island production. The stage, music and acrobatics were great. The brochure said to bring a wrap, so we were prepared for high air conditioning. We were ROASTING in there with just a shirt and pants.
The story was a bit choppy and some scenes were boring. All of the dialog is in Hawaiian except for the narrator who reads what is in the brochure. It was impressive for a local production. I would describe it as a bit Lion King with the big puppets and a bit Cirque with the one acrobat. The show lasted 1.5 hours.
Wouldn't go see it again, but would not tell you to miss it either. It does have entertainment value and is a nice change of pace. They have a bar and sell popcorn/snacks. We had a picnic by the sea wall before we went in, and that was perfect.
Also the seating is just about the same - first row is not necessarily the best. Also if you wait in your seat after the show, the cast will come out and talk with you in the theater.
love the show!! i must say i would rather watch this show than a lu'au performance. everything about this show was great! especially the drumming..the music people were spectacular. i was touched by this performance. great story
oh and for those of you that may think..."oh i rather watch a show in vegas" ha! i kid you not..its nothing like a vegas show.
As someone who works in professional theatre I was super excited to see this show! I did enjoy it, but overall was left slightly bored.
I loved the drumming and singing! Amazing!
Some of the pieces were a little long and tedious for my taste.
We love, love, loved the show. I am not typically wowed by theater, but this got me. Mind you, it is not a Vegas show, but more subtle and beautiful. It was a cool way to learn a little more about Maui and have a different kind of vacation experience.
4 stars only because the storyline was not clear at all. In the beginning scenes, it's just two people chasing each other with different facial expressions. I kept on thinking... what the heck is going on here? This show is nothing at all like Cirque. I would say the only thing this show has going for it is that girl that does tricks with the fabric and the singing.
The singing and music is absolutely incredible. The singers are wonderful. In fact, it wouldn't be a bad idea to just buy the cd and save yourself 50+ dollars. Watching the band is amazing because they don't use the typical instruments you see in an orchestra. The majority is all hawaiian type stuff with a little piano and guitar here and there...
I suppose this would be a more enjoyable show if you went into it with neutral expectations. But it's enjoyable.
People thought this was:
- Cool (1)
Don't expect a Vagas show in Maui.
When we asked the locals what to do in Maui they said go see Ulalena, it's like a Cirque du Soleil show. Have these locals actually been to a Cirque du Soleil show? I have, a few actually, and I would say this is not Cirque quality, but it was really good for a local production.
I would recommend dinner and Ulalena as a date night (isn't every night date night in Hawaii). Pay extra for the premium tickets so you can say after the show to meet the cast. This will make you appreciate the show more because you connect with the cast and get to ask questions. They also let you take pictures with the cast.
Dislikes:
-Misleading locals
Likes:
-Great production
-Performers where great
-Meet and greet at the end was nice
-Lots of places to eat near by
Overall:
I'm not sure I would pay to go see this show again, but I'm glad I had the opportunity to see it. BTW, I wouldn't pay to see most of the other Cirque du Soleil shows again either. Ulalena is sort of like a luau show on steroids, without the food. It probably didn't hurt that the main female performer was very attractive.
Very good show about Hawaiian Lore. Fine choreography.
Outstanding live musicians jam for you.
A bit hard to follow if you don't read the flyer in the foyer area.
Attended Saturday night, May 9th 2009. I have seen this show 3 times now over the past 9 or 10 years and it is every bit as good as it ever was.
This is an awesome way to experience the culture and history of Maui and Hawaii in general. The show was excellent and the experience was more like a Cirque show than not. (yes, I have been to a Cirque show!). My Fiance' has been to two Cirque shows and thought this was better. The reason is possibly that this show tells a real, historically accurate story. It also involves the audience. Neither of us has shed a tear at a Cirque show and both did at Ulalena. But why compare?
Bottom line is don't miss this show, it is very moving. Only advice is don't get the standard seats. without giving anything away, there is something to be missed if you do.
Also, a word of thanks to the stage and musical performers for maintaining such high standards and such a beautiful show.
Stimulating for all your Hawaiian island dreams.
Beautiful set. Feast your eyes. Sensational and powerful.
Beautiful acting and dancing, a pleasant surprise,. I thought it had a 50/50 chance of being corny, but it was one of my best times there. It isn't given the attention it deserves.
You can see the Hawaiian ancestors spirits floating around, infusing with the actors, watching over them, and inspiring them. Moving.
Definitely has the Cirque du Soleil touch, expected, since one of the producers had a hand in developing it.
Don't drink too much of the wine they sell; if you pee, you'll miss something special you won't see anywhere else.
'Ulalena is an amazing show, it is Cirque du Soleil Maui style. I can not even begin to describe the show, it is something you have to see.
I have seen several Cirque shows and this one is better than any of them, and the only one which I have the soundtrack for, and it is all in native Hawaiian.
People thought this was:
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This is a nice way to end the week in Maui. The story, music, and overall theatrics were impressive. The premium seats were the way to go. If given the chance to do-over, I would skip the dinner in advance. But then again, I wasnt impressed with the food presented almost anywhere in Maui. With the premium package, you get to stick around after the show and chat and have pics with the cast. It was amazing to find out that 95% of the cast were Maui natives and actually trained for the acrobats, etc on the island. I thought for sure they were brought in from one of the Cirque shows in Vegas. :)
People thought this was:
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Very enjoyable. The premise is the history of Hawai'i. From the first creation of the islands to the coming of Captain Cook, this show beautifully portrays the history and culture of Hawai'i.
The dancing is amazing, Cirque de Soleil style with a mix of Stomp, with many humorous times as well. I found that sometimes I would drift my gaze over to the band that accompanied because they were so passionate about what they were doing. Singing is amazing, I didn't understand any of it, but it was beautiful nonetheless.
Definitely a show to watch if you're in Maui.
All of us really enjoyed this show. The live band and singers were fantastic and conveyed the history of Hawaii t hrough music and dance. A mesmerizing show--highly recommended.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
Great show. Just a couple acrobatic acts so certainly not comparable to Cirque. But it is a great retelling of Hawaiian history with beautiful dancing, singing and live music. Don't worry about your seats. It's a small enough theater that every seat will be good.
People thought this was:
- Cool (1)
great show about Hawaiian culture. The singing, dancing, acrobats and music were wonderful. Show is in Lahaina at the Maui Theater. Get at least premium seats ($60) - they will be high enough for you to be able to see the stage and the band up off to the right.
I wouldn't compare this to anything like Cirque De Soleil but it is a fantastic production of culture and history performed through art, dance and music. After the show, all the performers come to stage to answer any questions you may have and offer photo opportunites.
