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'Ulalena
Category: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Performing Arts [Edit]
878 Front StLahaina, HI 96761
(877) 688-4800
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 1 pm - 7:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
62 reviews for 'Ulalena
62 reviews in English
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Review from Crystal D.
Santee, CA
10/22/2011
Based on the mixed reviews, we were a little skeptical of watching this show. We did not have our hopes up & perhaps that's why we enjoyed it so much. But we got the dinner package for Ruth's Chris and had a great time. We booked a few days in advance and got the very best seats in the house. Front row & center stage.
Drinks & snacks at this place were probably more reasonably priced than an ABC store! Popcorn was like $2 and so was a bottle of water.
This play reminded me of The Lion King for anyone who's seen that? Only the costumes weren't as great. Obviously this is a little bit more low budget than that, so it was expected. Overall, a great show & would definitely recommend it! -
Review from Doug A.
Huntington Beach, CA
1/1/2012
It started out as a hoot. Kind of a farse with dancers and singers. Somewhere along the way it turned into a great production with live singers, dancers, actors, and percussion. The live band and singing helped a lot. The characters were well rehearsed and delivered. After the show, stick around and meet the cast. A good night for all.
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Review from Elaine wilson T.
Lancaster, CA
12/23/2011
My husband and I went to see Ulalena because our daughter had danced to one of the songs at her local dance studio. We were not let down. It was a lovely portrayal of how Maui came to be, using metaphors, live music with drums and conch shells blowing. We both loved the Cirque du soleil style. The singing and dancing were magical. This is not a Broadway production, and the jaded travelers who are expecting an extravaganza should stay away, however, if you want to spend a lovely evening learning about Hawaiian culture and music, I would highly recommend Ulalena. We did not use the dinner package, but had a wonderful dinner in Lahaina.
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Review from Jon N.
Mercer Island, WA
1/16/2012
Saw this last year, took two four-year-olds. We really liked it. It's not Cirque de Soleil, and it's not a luau either, but has some elements of both. Don't expect super-acrobatics, or old-time authenticity (not sure where you would get that nowadays), just go with the flow. I preferred it to the Old Lahaina Luau. 'Ulalena is a little pricey, don't know whether cut-rate tickets are available.
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Review from Jasmine P.
Seattle, WA
12/19/2011
This was a lovely show, with beautiful "native" everything - dancing, set, live musicians. The fact that it was performed in such a sweetly low-tech way (the dancers carried many of the props while dancing through the audience, the musicians played all of the performance's music "live" on real instruments, etc.) made it all the more enchanting. This performance has soul, a real Hawaiian feel to it. One senses that the staff (dancers, musicians, technicians, etc. ) are very proud to showcase the culture and history of the Hawaiian islands. A must-see!
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Review from Leo M.
Moraga, CA
11/22/2011
We went yesterday with our kids. We loved it. This is a show to see if you want to feel and appreciate the history and culture of the Islands. It will move you, and fill your heart with beauty and love and compassion. You will suffer through their troubled history, and be brought up in hope in the beautiful finale with powerful singing and percussion. I strongly recommend the VIP package, so you can stay for an after show meeting with the performers.
You will hate this show, though, if you are looking for a Disney happy story of naive colonized Islanders who now speak perfect English, or if you are looking for Vegas flare.
This, my friends, is a beautiful artistic representation of the history of the Hawaiian islands, and I am so happy my kids got a taste of it. Aloha. -
Review from Betsy H.
6/15/2011
I don't want to insult any one who actually liked this heap of garbage, but you'd have to be insane to think this show was even tolerable.
My eyes hurt from rolling them so frequently during the show. All I could think is: "I paid HOW much for this?!"
Costumes: Spandex-y and unauthentic. Singing: Pitchy and overly dramatic. Actors: Highschool drama club-esque. Theater: Shabby and outdated.
If anyone tells you this rivals the Cirque shows in Vegas clearly has never actually seen a Cirque show. Avoid this hot mess. Seriously. The best part of the night was the popcorn, and even that was mediocre. -
Review from Kathryn L.
Napa, CA
11/5/2011
I saw Ulalena in June 2008 and it has stuck with me ever since then. It is disheartening to see all the Ulalena haters on here, and even worse the people recommending you see a luau instead. When I was visiting Maui I saw Ulalena one night and I went the Old Lahaina Luau another night. I had fun at both events, but the truth is you cannot compare the two because they are two very different types of shows. Ulalena is a musical steeped in hawaiian history, myth, and heritage. It is not anti-american as one has said, but anti-colonialism. You have to understand when watching this that America STOLE their land, imprisoned their queen, and killed their people. And this show not only expresses this great sadness but they embrace it and use it to educate others about this history. I am sorry that some came to this show with the expectations of a cirque-esque show, that is not what this is and you will not find that here. In my opinion this is more authentic then ANY luau on ANY island.
If you just want a good time with food, alcohol and a light and fluffy story about how their were natives and then suddenly there were sugar cane plantations then go see The Old Lahaina Luau. If you want, music, traditional dance, hawaiian chants, hawaiian mythology then come see Ulalena. -
Review from Chris T.
Vancouver, WA
11/26/2011
I was a little worried when I saw the theater, but it had no reflection on the show. This musical stage play of the Hawaiin people was truly great! A great blend of costumes, music, and lights made for a wonderful experience. If choosing between this and a luau, choose this.
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Review from Jordan D.
Waipahu, HI
5/10/2011
I watched this show back in high school and it was a very impressive production, and is currently one of the longest running theater shows in Hawaii. The music was memorable, and the characters connected with the audience, and I definitely recommend this to anyone that visits Maui.
Regarding everyone else's two-stars-or-less review, most of you seemed to be expecting too much from the show and ultimately set yourself up for your own disappointment. While they do include a couple of Cirque type acrobats, "Cirque du Soleil" is in no way associated with it and should not have been a gauge for comparison from the start.
For those that have not yet seen it and don't know much about Hawaiian History or Mythology, perhaps you should do a little research about the characters listed on the website and read through the 'Ulalena brochures before-hand, otherwise it would make absolutely no sense to you and you'll draw poor conclusions about what exactly they're trying to portray. Oh and DO NOT EXPECT CIRQUE DU SOLEIL. -
Review from Rachel G.
San Francisco, CA
9/20/2011
Loved this show. It was so wonderful to see the dancing and songs in a non-vegasy luau setting. We were very moved by the song, dance, costuming and set design. This is really worth seeing if you want to actually learn about the culture of Hawaii and not just consume it as a tourist.
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Review from Tam V.
Burke, VA
7/13/2011
If I could give 0 stars, I would. I don't mean to be ignorant and dismissive of the Hawaiian culture and history, or even snooty and snobby with regards to my taste, but there's something fundamentally wrong with the picture if I was paying more attention to the drummers than I was to the show.
We were told that this was a cirque-du-soleil like production, and that the lady from expedia really recommended it because she 'watched it 11 times and cried each time.' She had to have been lying because I could barely get through half of one show without looking for the exits already. I don't want to sound mean, but I agree with everyone that said that it felt like a high school production, and am baffled by people actually calling this an amazing, beautiful portrayal of Hawaii. It is sad that I enjoyed a VSA culture show more than I enjoyed something that I paid top dollar for that should have been free. I really think that to enjoy this show, you need to be a local with some grasp of the Hawaiian history already, or that you need to lower your expectations immensely.
Things I was disappointed in: no aerobics (they had ladies twirling around on rings and the two rope-like drapes, which I'm sure required a ton of physical skill, but its execution and flair was limited by either the limited high school auditorium sized theater or just overall lack of choreography as was typical with the rest of the show. Speaking of which, I saw midgets do this 1000x better with more passion and showmanship at actual Cirque productions. So maybe my expectations were a bit inflated, there.) Dancing and choreography was very bareboned. The dancing was very limited in that the 8 or 9 performers just did the same move over and over again. If i wanted to watch an aerobics class do pilates, I'd stop by my local gym. In retrospect, I find it comedic that the announcer asked us to turn off cell phones and not use cameras 'for the safety of their performers,' because nothing they did was remotely dangerous. The technical difficulty of the show left a lot to be desired.
In conclusion: not something I would go to for free. I don't mean to sound demeaning, because as an outsider, my opinion could be scrutinized as being ignorant to a culture and history that many people around here are proud of. And they should be proud of it, in my limited exposure and from what I've read, there seems to be a rich, beautiful, storied history here ranging from creation myths up to the unification of the islands under the Great Kamehameha. Sadly, the execution fell far short. -
Review from Jessica L.
Dublin, CA
12/10/2011
Ulalena was pretty good. Word of mouth from people working at the resort I stayed at was really favorable, the concierge even said it was like a Cirque show. While I wouldn't go so far as to say it's on par with Cirque, it's well-produced with great music. If you're expecting a typical corny luau type show, which can be fun, this isn't the show for you, but I'd say it's worth seeing. We were able to get discounted VIP tickets, but otherwise, tickets can be a little pricey. If you like theater though, I'd say definitely come see the show; the choreography is great and the singers have great voices as well. Just a warning, the show is about 1 hour, 30 mins, with no intermission, so if you're like me and hate leaving in the middle of the show, use the restroom beforehand.
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Review from Aaryn P.
Cedar Park, TX
5/27/2011
So we went to this show with a dinner package, and while we had a pretty good time, and the show was fair, I would say skip this and book at Warren and Annabelles or splurge for a great luau.
We were sold on this show for it's variety of contortionists and acrobatics, however, there were only two or three short scenes that featured these talents..and while they were good, we would have liked to see more, as this is is what was hyped to us.
I tend to agree with one of the reviewers below...while the show does tell a lot about the early history, but the story takes a dark turn and really focuses on how the entry of white man to the islands "ruined" the people in several ways....while I understand the need for this interpretive history to be incorporated into the show, it really leaves you with the feeling of...gee, I think they really want me to feel bad about this. And that is part of the tail end of the show, so one of my last impressions was not the incredible choreography, acrobatics or beautiful set designs, but sick and dying plantation slaves writhing on the stage. Thanks, that's what I needed on my vacation, Ulalena.
Anyways, if you like interpretive theatre, go ahead...but there are better, less depressing shows to see that won't bum you out....
In addition to the show, we did the Ruth Chris steak house...and interestingly enough, it seemed that because we were on a package deal and didn't upgrade our meals, they figured we were a lost cause or something because the service was lacking. The meal choices were slim, and much smaller portions than usual, but the food was really good. I wouldn't get the package again....I would just go out to dinner separately instead. -
Review from Ryan B.
North Hollywood, CA
7/8/2010
Massive disappointment. We'd heard a lot of good things about this but apparently not from anyone that had actually seen it. It has this Cirque du Soleil reputation, but is in reality nothing like a cirque show - in terms of talent, production value, or entertainment.
It feels like a highschool production. The venue and sets are cheap. The acting is weak. It takes an anti American stance. It's only a representation of Hawaiian culture and history if you take a cheap and limited view of Hawaii.
Save your money on this and go see one of the many beautiful luaus that are far more charming and authentic than this nonsense. (Or go scuba diving, or to Haleakala, or the road to Hana...basically do anything else in Maui instead of this) -
Review from Gwen B.
Dublin, CA
5/16/2011
Although I enjoyed the live music and some of the performance, I was
expecting more for the money. It's a bit boring partway through. There
are definitely talented people there in the mix. I wouldn't go back even
if it were half the price. Just not enough spark in it for me or my husband
I went in May 2011. -
Review from Jen O.
Martinez, CA
11/12/2011
Amazing show! Must go! Better than a Luau,,, We got the package deal for a $90 this includes the show and dinner at the Lahaina Fish Co. My 12 year old son and 9 year old daughter really enjoyed it.
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Review from Lori M.
Watsonville, CA
11/12/2011
My family and I attended Nov. 3rd and were all so glad we made that choice. Family vacations are often a list of wanting to do items, and only so many days to get them done. I was the one that had this as a have to do item. I didn't know if the other 3 would be enjoy it. I had been told to go see this, and I know why now. I must say I am surprised after reading some of the negative reviews. I know views are always varied, but Ulalena has our gratitude! We stayed after to listen to the performers sharing personal explanations of the the "how, when, where, etc." and questions answered. That too was interesting. We asked for seat that sat near the musical instruments at the top of the rows, we thought that was perfect. It all gave us a trip experience we will not forget. So we are among the others who will tell you....Go and see this!
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Review from Lehua K.
Lahaina, HI
11/3/2011
SHOW & CAST is AWESOME!! reminds me of my CULTURE and why i LOVE it so much...you appreciate what HELL we had to go through once the WHiTE MAN CAME ALONG!! but too the new front staff not the biggest fan of them!!! the show is BADASS and the are respectfull to our culture!!:)
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Review from Derek S.
San Francisco, CA
11/8/2010
This is a show that exists to tell the story of Hawaii in a beautiful, artistic way that effectively combines traditional stories and dances with modern effects. The Hawaiian history is rich and complex, and "Ulalena" is an amazing key to understanding some of what Hawaii is.
It is a sophisticated musical play which took years of careful research and consultation with the most knowledgeable keepers of the culture, for the Montreal-based company to produce this unique show.
You can easily bring the young ones to appreciate the simple beauty of the highly skilled performers and effects, and for those of you who can appreciate art as a glimpse into culture - especially the amazing Hawaiian culture, you are in for an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. -
Review from Sir L.
Honolulu, HI
6/11/2011 3 photos
This is a beautiful story of Hawaiian history throughout the years in a artistic way where traditional storie, dances, and modern effects are incorporated. The Hawaiian history is rich and complex, and "Ulalena" is an amazing key to understanding some of what Hawaii is.
After watching the show, I appreciate the simple beauty of Hawaii that highly skilled performers conveyed. For those of you who REALLY appreciate ART, especially the amazing Hawaiian culture, you are in for an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. -
Review from Lily A.
8/31/2009 1 photo
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.Listed in: Maui Trip
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Review from Jocelyn O.
San Diego, CA
1/3/2010
Don't expect a world-class production. The show dragged a bit and the highlight was the Cirque du Soleil type of aerobatics. Nothing special unfortunately. I think I probably fell asleep for a few minutes.
Don't believe the hype on their website. It's not that good. Spend your $$ elsewhere. -
Review from Kevin R.
Los Angeles, CA
8/31/2009
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. -
Review from J A.
Orinda, CA
9/19/2009
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. -
Review from Brian B.
11/11/2006
'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.Listed in: Maui
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Review from Christopher H.
Plano, TX
9/23/2010
I attended Ulalena tonight - Wow, that's two hours I'm never gonna get back. After reading all the "raves", I was expecting a well-done, professional production. Instead, Ulalena is on a level with a high-school play. It's an attempt to emulate Cirque Du Soleil, but the performers are not anywhere near the level of Cirque.
There are about 15 lines of dialogue in the entire production, and that is done by a narrator backstage. The scenes involve a lot of jumping and "thumping" by performers, but there is no coherent story line. The lighting and staging is amateurish. The percussion section (banging drums of various sorts) like the performers, were enthusiastic, but not especially talented. A significant share of the music was recorded which the percussionists accompanied.
I'm an Arts lover, I've seen some great performances. Ulalena is not one of them. I'm highly skeptical of the "reviews" I saw in the marketing hype for this show.
Personally, I found the historical presentation of song, dance and telling history of Maui to be more professional and "authentic" feeling at the Feast of Lele. For not much more money, you get a better show and food and drink at any of the luaus in town. -
Review from Paul C.
Bakersfield, CA
6/1/2011
the show was ok but the percussion was awesome! I would not go again one time is enough but it was fun and the children with our group really liked it.
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Review from MaRISA Y.
Sunnyvale, CA
12/7/2009
One star for the passion of the performers, one star for the music.
I really wished I could give them a better review, but it's just not too good. Hawaii has so many interesting history from Kamehameha I to the tragic life of his daughter Princess Nahienaena.
The storyline is just not strong and boring at times. I guess it's worth watching once, but I sure am glad that I got these tickets for free. For entertainment and cultural show the Old Lahaina Luau is definitely better than this. -
Review from Andrew T.
Sacramento, CA
2/1/2010
Im a huge fan of the performing arts. when ever i get a chance i like to see local performances. Ulalena is an amazing portrayal of the local lore the sights and the sounds were top notch. they try not to make it a normal verierty show and more like a broadways production. I got VIP seating and this entitled me to meet the cast after the show. they introduced them selves and also showed the modern sound system that is designed just for that show. i cant say enough good stuff about this show i highly recomend this to any one looking for a good show in Maui.
oh one more thing you can only see this on Maui. -
Review from Michelle L.
Honolulu, HI
3/15/2010
I was overwhelmed with emotions when I saw this performance. It made me so proud to be living Hawaii since there is so much rich history behind all the touristy glitz and glamor. It was a beautiful production and all of the performers were so passionate in what they do. Sitting next to the percussion band was a major plus. I was able to see what everyone was playing and it blew my mind by how talented they were since they used a bunch of instruments including the nose flute. During the plantation scene, the gong man went all out and had his own dance going on.
Amazing is one word I would use to sum up 'Ulalena. Definitely watch this to get a sense of place of Hawaii, Maui especially. -
Review from Beverly T.
Chino Hills, CA
5/12/2008
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. -
Review from Bert K.
5/31/2008
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. -
Review from Martha G.
Seattle, WA
6/30/2010
I have been to several Cirque du Soleil shows, and I wouldn't compare Ulalena to them. So, if you are expecting a Vegas Cirque show, this will not match your expectations. Ulalenda is not a Cirque du Soleil show- though I believe the producers have ties to the entertainment company. I'm not saying this show isn't as good, it's just different- don't expect impossible physical feats or magic, but you can expect good production quality, and story-telling through amazing live music and dancing.
Each show is infused with the performers' passion for the stories and history of the island. The show is visually engaging and the live music is incredible. I have seen this show 3-4 times now, and the performers never look tired- each show is fresh and brand new. They are very talented, and their love of the show really comes across.
Consider this show as a good alternative for the tired, touristy luaus. Luaus hardly show true local Hawaiian culture- so if you are interested in learning about Hawaiian culture and history, specifically for Maui, this is your show. They sing in Hawaiian, English, and Portugese. Dancing numbers are a great mix of kahiko (ancient) hula and modern dance.
A word about the story line- I would suggest you read the program before the show starts, so you know what is going on in each scene. This background will help you get more out of the show. I highly recommend this show to anyone visiting the islands. -
Review from Alban N.
Cupertino, CA
6/17/2007
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. -
Review from c c.
Mountain View, CA
5/31/2008
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. -
Review from Tony H.
San Jose, CA
10/3/2008
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. -
Review from Sarah M.
Seattle, WA
9/2/2009
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. -
Review from Miloslav V.
Brooklyn, NY
6/28/2011
i just wasnt into it that much. I actually dozed off a few times. Also the power went out in the city during the production so there was a 30 minute delay. But the performers are really nice and you can chat with them after the show.
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Review from Kate J.
Blue Bell, PA
10/2/2010
Ulalena is a great experience. You should go.
No, you should not expect a spectacle on par with Circe de Soleil. It is more modest than that and frankly my least favorite part was the aerialist. If you like phenomenal percussion, myth, dance and want to capture the feel of the islands, this show is for you.
The music is fantastic, you could go for the band alone and be very happy.
Be sure to call directly for tickets. I was about to buy them online and called the box office when I encountered a problem. I then discovered that I could get a free ticket for my child which saved me a good $50!
The show is wonderful for kids and I was delighted that he had the opportunity to hear so much of the Hawaiian language. It gets a bit heavy handed at times and the narrative is a bit disjointed but the overall experience is terrific.
I have one issue with the show: the performers are not named or credited in the program. The website does not include cast info either and it led me to worry that they are likely not members of Actor's Equity and may not be treated properly by the owners. I tried to dig a little deeper but could not find ownership information.
