Wahi Pana: Storied Places presents an evening of music, poetry, and storytelling inspired by Lēʻahi curated by Brandy Nālani McDougall.
ʻIke i ka Nani o Lēʻahi (Know the Beauty of Lēʻahi)
Join us for a powerful unveiling of “Ke Aloha ʻĀina Paʻa Mau Loa,” a historic song recreated through a new composition by TJ Keanu Tario. Thesong was originally created and sung by nā koa o ke aloha ʻāina (Hawaiian Kingdom patriots) during the Kaua Kūloko of 1895 as they took up arms against the U.S. military-backed oligarchy in an effort to restore Queen Liliʻuokalani to the throne. Only the lyrics were recorded in the account, Kaua Kuloko 1895 (edited by Thomas Spencer); the original music was lost. While the lyrics have been set to new music by Tario, the inspiration remains the same: the ongoing spirit of ke aloha ʻāina that is “paʻa mau loa,” with us forever.
Tario, joined by Makaʻala Perry-Tario and Moana Maeva, performs this song for the first time at Lēʻahi, 131 years since the koa before them.
The program features an artist conversation and a series of music, poetry, and storytelling inspired by the beauty of Lēʻahi and explores the many ways of knowing and understanding the complexity and resilience of this storied place.
Featured muscians:
- TJ Keanu Tario
- Makaʻala Perry-Tario
- Moana Maeva
Featured Poets:
With storytelling by Kauwila Mahi and Ka‘imina‘auao Kahikina
The event will take place at the site of the Wahi Pana: Storied Places installation Lēʻahi from Aloha Kaʻapuni (2025) by Brandy Nālani McDougall.
Program:
5:30–6:15 p.m. — Music and light refreshments and beverages.
6:15–6:30 p.m. — Opening welcome
6:30–6:50 p.m. — Artist conversation
6:50–8:30 p.m. — Poetry, mele, and storytelling program
Event information:
- This event is free and open to the public. While a limited number of seating will be provided, attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs for comfort.
- Light refreshments and beverages will be served
- Street parking will be available. Please be mindful of the neighboring residents.
