KANEOHE, Hawaii — The Hawaii Conservatory of Performing Arts presents “iHula” by playwright Ryan “Oki” Okinaka, recipient of the Hawaii Conservatory of Performing Arts Emerging Island Artist program and lecturer at Windward Community College. “iHula” makes it run at Paliku Theatre over two weekends, Feb. 10 to 19.

The play about cultural perpetuation and legacy, directed by Taurie Kinoshita, merges hula, mele and aloha throughout the story of four women overcoming their fears, pride and insecurities to discover the true meaning of hula.

“This is a play about creating ohana, beyond biological relations and the great honor and sometimes burden of perpetuating culture,” said Kinoshita in a news release. “Oki’s play is an unforgettable and moving experience. If you love hula, you cannot miss this play honoring its power.”

The play is open to all ages with a 90-minute running time. Tickets are $25/general; $20/senior, UH faculty/staff and active military with ID (up to two tickets); $10/youth and college students with ID. Visit the Paliku Theatre website to purchase tickets.

“iHula” first premiered at Kumu Kahua Theatre in 2016 and was recognized for excellence in writing by the Hawaii State Theatre Council. It’s the second professional production presented by the newly formed Hawaii Conservatory of Performing Arts. The first was “Oriental Faddah and Son” by Lee A. Tonouchi in spring 2022.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.