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If all-night dancing isn’t for you, Oahu also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with community-theater productions, stand-up comedy, outdoor concerts, film festivals, and chamber-music performances. Major Broadway shows, dance companies, rock stars, and comedians come through the Islands, too. Check local newspapers—the Honolulu Star-Advertiser or Midweek—for the latest events. Websites like www.frolichawaii.com and www.honolulumagazine.com also have great information.
The only professional theater troupe in the state, this group stages delightful productions, with creative props and engaging stories, August through May. Local stories and themes are the focus, making for unique shows for visiting kids. Founded in 1955, it's one of the oldest children's theaters in the country, offering drama-education programs and school and family performances.
Since the early 1980s, the Honolulu Zoo Society has sponsored hour-long evening concerts, branded the "Wildest Show in Town," that are one of the best deals in town. They're held at 6 pm on Wednesday, June–August. Listen to local legends play everything from Hawaiian to jazz to Latin music. Take a brisk walk through the zoo, or join in the family activities. This is an alcohol-free event, and there's food for those who haven't brought their own picnic supplies. Gates open at 4:35.
Unlike most island luau shows, Mauka Warriors at Hawaii Country Club goes beyond hula and fire-knife dances to tell the stories of King Kamehameha I, who aimed to unite the Hawaiian Islands, and also the warriors who populated islands throughout Polynesia. Tickets (three days a week) include a Polynesian buffet, various activities, and fascinating interactive performances. Transportation is available ($30 per person) from Honolulu and Waikiki.
At one of the largest events on Oahu, you can stroll, drink in hand, through an authentic Hawaiian village, learn traditional arts and crafts, and play local games. The lively stage show includes a fire-knife dancer, singing emcee, and both traditional and contemporary hula and other Polynesian dances. A finale dance features participation from the audience. Admission includes the buffet, activities, and the show. You pay extra for table service, box seating, and shuttle transport to and from Waikiki—but the stunning sunsets are free. It starts daily at 5.
With a beachfront location in the middle of Waikiki, the Royal Hawaiian’s Ahaaina luau is an exceptional, upscale event with hula, fire dancing, live music, Hawaiian-inspired and luau-favorite dishes, and more. Options range from "standard dinner and show" to "premium dinner and show." The three-hour event is held two nights a week (Monday and Thursday); be sure to reserve in advance during the high season.
Don a flower lei and feast on traditional Hawaiian luau fare while enjoying cultural activities and a Polynesian show, with a choice of start time at 12:30 or 5 on Monday and Wednesday through Friday. It's a three-hour experience, and tickets include a Waimea Valley pass so you can explore the gardens before the luau.
