Communities across Hawaiʻi are invited to honor the life and enduring legacy of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Piʻikoi through two meaningful community events — a powerful living history play and the annual Prince Kūhiō Parade.
Presented by the Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī Coalition, Ke Kauā o Ka Lāhui: The Life of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Piʻikoi is a compelling theatrical experience that brings history to life for today’s audiences. Written by acclaimed playwright Victoria Nalani Kneubuhl and directed and produced by Sammie Choy, the living history play traces Kūhiō’s journey from a young aliʻi to a visionary leader committed to the wellbeing of his people.
First debuted in 2022 at ʻIolani Palace during Hawaiian History Month, the production returns to deepen our shared understanding of Kūhiō’s legacy — one rooted in leadership, civic engagement, and service to lāhui.
Audiences will witness pivotal moments in his life, including the founding of the Hawaiian Civic Clubs, the establishment of county governments, and his advocacy for the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. The play also highlights his broader impact, from protecting lands that would later become part of the National Park System to championing women’s suffrage.
Each performance includes opportunities for reflection and discussion, inviting community members to consider how Kūhiō’s vision continues to guide Hawaiʻi today.
Another highlight this month is the annual Prince Kūhiō Parade, organized by the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs. As one of Hawaiʻi’s recognized legacy parades, this beloved tradition brings together civic clubs, cultural organizations, schools, and community groups from across the pae ʻāina to celebrate Kūhiō’s life and contributions.
Events like these offer meaningful ways for ʻohana and community of all ages to connect with Hawaiian history and celebrate a leader whose work continues to shape Hawaiʻi today. Everyone is welcomed to join in honoring Prince Kūhiō – a true servant of the lāhui.
Ke Kauā o ka Lāhui
Oʻahu Performances
- March 7 at 5:30 p.m.: Kroc Center, ʻEwa Beach
- March 20 at 6:30 p.m.: King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center
- March 21 at 6:30 p.m.: King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center
- March 22 at 2:00 p.m.: King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center
Molokaʻi Performance
- March 14 at 10:00 a.m.: Lanikeha Recreation Center, Hoʻolehua
Ke Kauā o ka Lāhui, a play about the life of Prince Kūhiō, debuted in 2022 at ʻIolani Palace and has also been presented on Kauaʻi. – Courtesy Photos
More info available at hawaiiponoi.info
