PEARL CITY, Hawaii — A cornerstone of performing arts, education and community engagement in leeward Oahu since it opened 50 years ago, Leeward Theatre celebrates its anniversary with a special performance on Sept. 22.

The free event happening at 2 p.m. will illustrate Leeward Community College’s dedication to making arts and culture accessible to all while celebrating five decades of talent from distinguished alumni, current students and local performers.

Vocalists Kristian Lei and Starr Kalahiki, guitarist Honybal Sosa, dancer Phillip Kelley-Crawford and others will perform alongside community members who have contributed to the theatre’s legacy. This once-in-a-lifetime event will also include video interviews and monologues from noted alumni and staff.

“Leeward Theatre has always been a gathering place for the community, and what better way to celebrate 50 years than by offering this milestone event for free,” said Theatre Manager Elisa Olson in a news release. “We want to fill our theatre with the energy, appreciation and love from the community that has supported us for half a century.”

Tickets are free, but a reservation is required (click on the date).

Over the years, the theatre has nurtured generations of talent, entertained audiences and fostered a love for the arts within the local community.

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