Hawaiʻi Opera Theatre Plans First Hawaiian Language Opera Premiere

Hawaiʻi Opera Theatre is set to premiere Kamalehua: The Sheltering Tree in 2026, the first full-length opera primarily in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, telling the story of 19th-century Hawaiian diplomat Timoteo Kamalehua Haʻalilio's efforts to secure Hawaiʻi's sovereignty. This production, part of the Asia-Pacific Voices Project, aims to reclaim Hawaiian identity and language through a world-class creative team and community involvement. Complementing this cultural revival, a new program called ʻŌlelo Authentic has launched to teach the Hawaiian language, highlighting its near extinction and importance for cultural preservation. Additionally, local culture and diversity are celebrated in various events on the Big Island, reflecting the vibrant community and heritage of Hawaiʻi. In sports, promising young rugby player Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa has signed with Moana Pasifika for upcoming Super Rugby seasons, showcasing the region's growing influence in international athletics. Together, these developments underscore a vibrant resurgence of Hawaiian cultural pride and representation across art, language, and sport.