Mele Program: Kikilo Ke Kapu – “The Preservation of Kapu Places”

Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives’ (HMH) acclaimed Mele Program will transport guests through time and tradition on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Enjoy a night of moʻolelo (storytelling), mele (song), oli (chant), and hula (dance) with world-class cultural practitioners. Renowned musicians and dancers of Hālau Hula Kamamolikolehua under the skilled leadership of Kumu Pōhai Souza and Hālau Mele, under the direction of Kumu Sam ʻOhu Gon III and Kumu Māhealani Wong.

EVENT DETAILS

• Date & Time: Saturday, May 9, 2025 | Seating opens at 5:30 p.m. | Performance begins at 6:30 p.m.
• Location: Kahua Hoʻokipa Stage at Hawaiian Mission Houses | 553 S. King St., Honolulu 96813
• Tickets: $45 per person. (Tickets on sale soon!)
• Culinary Experience: Gourmet charcuterie options available for purchase from Da’Cuterie by Oahu Premier Picnics.
• Beverages: Cash bar featuring beer, wine, water, and soft drinks (available from 5:30 p.m. through intermission)
• Parking: Available at Civic Center Municipal Parking (346 Alapaʻi Street) or metered street parking on Kawaiahaʻo St., Mission Lane, or South Street

CULTURAL CONTEXT: UNDERSTANDING KAPU

While “Kapu” is commonly interpreted today as simply “Keep Out,” its traditional significance runs far deeper. In ancient Hawaiian society, kapu represented spiritual restrictions based on mana (spiritual power).

Support provided by Hawai’i Tourism Authority through the Kūkulu Ola Program.