16th Annual Celebration of the Arts Festival

“Ka Mana Leo” (Power of the Voice) Sets the Theme

March 21-23, 2008

“Ka Mana Leo” will be the theme for the 16th Annual Celebration of the Arts festival at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, which will be held from March 21 to 23, 2008. This year’s theme will complement the unique hands-on festival environment in which some of the islands’ most renowned practitioners share their knowledge and talents with event attendees. The topic will include lectures of the past (elders), voices of the future (students), influential speakers in the film and music industries and Hawaiian storytelling.

“2008 represents a vital period in terms of politics, financial aspects, awareness and self determination of the Hawaiian people,” said Clifford Nae’ole, event chairperson and hotel cultural advisor.  “The voices from the past must be considered and studied to shape the present. Voices of the present must be heard to create the future. Ka Mana Leo will enable the Hawaiian population to educate, appreciate, listen and speak out to strengthen its people and culture.”

A recipient of the prestigious Kahili Award from the Hawaii Tourism Authority in 2005, Celebration of the Arts is Hawaii’s premiere hands-on arts and cultural festival.  Kama’aina (local residents) and visitors are invited to experience the “Hawaiian heart and soul” through interaction with artisans, cultural practitioners, workshops, films, food and music.

Events are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. Among the highlights are the Saturday night Celebration luau, a Sunday Easter brunch and continuous hula and cultural performances.

We hope to see you here at the AAA Five-Diamond Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, which is newly reopened following a $160 million transformation. For additional information, please call 808-669-6200 and speak with the Concierge desk.

Me ke aloha pumehana (with warmest aloha),
Clifford J. Nae‘ole
Event Chair