All you need is love.Enjoy a hard day’s night of all things Beatlesque on Friday, Nov. 28, from 6 to 10 p.m. at ‘Iao Theater in Wailuku.
All you need is love and a pair of dancing shoes for this magnificent musical event where talent from across the beautiful Valley Isle come together to showcase their individual takes on many Beatles’ classics this Black Friday.
“This is the 80th year for the ‘Iao, and we have a special season of events to mark the historic milestone,” said Michael Pulliam, events coordinator for Maui OnStage.
Although the iconic foursome from Liverpool created mostly rock ’n’ roll hits, this showcase takes a few turns down the long and winding road of music history by depicting their timeless songbook in a mix of country, jazz, rock, blues, folk, reggae and even punk.
There will be a live cover band led by Fulton Tashombe, featuring songs performed by Anuhea, Lynnea Barry, Jerry Caires Jr. Blues Band, Kelly Covington and the husband and wife duo, Jerry Eiting & Debra Lynn.
Caires will perform his best rendition of Come Together while the soulful Anuhea lets you know I Wanna Hold Your Hand.
With Covington’s jazzy pan-ache—reminiscent of the iconic Ella Fitzgerald—it will be interesting to see what she has up her sleeve.
Lina Krueger, Erin Smith, Melissa M. from Mojomana and Randall Respond from the Ha‘iku Hillbillies will also attempt to throw the party with their renditions of Beatles’ hits.
Catch the talented Smith wail out a twist of the classic Back in the USSR and Respond jam out Act Naturally.
And watch out for Lovely Rita Meter Maid! She may ticket you with a charitable fine for party faux pas and fashion fouls.
The staff will be decked out in costumes inspired by the Beatles, such a Strawberry Fields’ character passing out chocolate covered berries. Steer clear of Mean Mr. Mustard, the Walrus and Bang Bang Maxwell—they can’t buy you love on this fun-filled evening!
Discounted theater tickets will be presented to all attendees and all-you-can-eat pupu will be passed—courtesy of Beverly Gannon of Hali‘imaile General Store—along with complimentary juices and soft drinks.
A silent auction will take place featuring original artwork from Maui artists, including Tim Garcia, Deybra Fair and many more.
There will also be gift certificates for fine dining, designer clothing boutiques and outdoor activities up for bid along with a fabulous one-week stay in O’ahu.
“I miss arts and cultural events from my work in San Francisco and Chicago,” said Pulliam. “I wanted to help create a cool event to bring crowds in, and hopefully they will come back to other events.”
The Maui Community Theater and Maui OnStage have called the ‘Iao Theater home coming up on 25 years, and Pulliam is excited about what this season has to offer.
“We want to build interest in the theater,” said Pulliam. “Not just main stage, but a constant schedule of one-night-only events and fundraising cocktail parties to draw in a younger crowd… those that crave more nightlife.”
The goal of new Executive Director Alexis Dascoulis, Board President Tony Levoy and Pulliam is to move Maui OnStage into the world as one of the nation’s top regional theaters.
“So many people know what’s going on in Makawao and Pa‘ia scene, so we would like to let them know about what’s going on over here,” said Pulliam. “Create fun, unique, different parties essentially that are relatively affordable.”
“Things going on with Maui OnStage are essential to the expansion of Maui culture in general,” said Pulliam.
Yes we’re going to a party party… Beatles Night at the historic ‘Iao Theater, located at 68 North Market Street in Wailuku. All-inclusive tickets are available for $40 by calling 242-6969, or visit www.mauionstage.com.