The Hitt List: My Weekend Picks 7/9
This weekend has plenty to celebrate with birthday parties and plays opening.
Hula’s Bar and Lei Stand is celebrating its 35th anniversary party tonight, July 9. Expect the party to be big, and crowded! Hosted by Flash and Maleko, there will be dancing by the Cherry Blossom Cabaret, b-boys, IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre, James Dela Cruz and much more! 21+, 7 p.m. – 2 a.m., 134 Kapahulu Ave, (808) 923-0669
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel introduces the Curators of Hawaiian Music series beginning tonight with Makana, Hawaii’s youngest slack-key guitar artist. The Monarch Room will host this ongoing event with two performances each Thursday evening with award-winning local musicians. See my review next week! Thursday nights 7:30-8:30 and 9:30-10:30 p.m., Tickets $49 for cocktail show, Kamaaina $39. Royal Hawaiian Hotel, Monarch Room, 2259 Kalakaua Ave. (808) 931-7311.
Colt Brennan, Davone Bess and Ryan Mouton will be special guests and Ten Feet will be performing at Shack Waikiki this Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This is a celebration put on by Excessive Celebrations, a new event planning company, to benefit the Hawaii Meals on Wheels. There will be heavy pupus and drinks, and a silent auction. Tickets are $40 and you can pick them up at The Wedding Café, The Willows Restaurant, or call (808) 497-2900. $45 at the door. www.excessivecelebrations.com
Bonsai Restaurant and Lounge is hosting glam photographer Russell Tanoue’s birthday party this Friday night. The party will be private from 7- 10 p.m., but doors will be open to the public from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., according to Bonsai. Wear your favorite hat, or you may be the only one without one. Bonsai Restaurant & Lounge, Restaurant Row, 500 Ala Moana Blvd. (808) 525-5080.
Cafe Hula Girl located in Waikiki, presents Chef Merle Mariano, formerly of Wynn Las Vegas and the Four Seasons Hualalai, this Saturday night. He will be presenting a five-course dinner including sweet kahuku corn chowder, pan seared scallops, filet of beef and chocolate mouse for only $35. There is one seating left at 9 p.m., so make sure to reserve your table. Call (808) 979-2299. 1888 Kalakaua Ave., The Waikiki Landmark, www.cafehulagirl.com
Two plays open this weekend. The Hawaii Shakespeare Festival premieres with Richard II on Friday, July 10 and runs through Sunday, July 19. It is surprisingly performed by an all female cast. The festival continues on with Pericles starting July 24 and the Merry Wives of Windsor on August 14. Visit hawaiishakes.org for more show times and ticket information.
Diamond Head Theatre premieres The Wedding Singer this Friday night. You remember that movie with Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler? Well, see it live on stage with ’80s music, and even, yes, mullets. Tickets range $12 to $42. 520 Makapuu Ave., (808) 733-0274.
