The Massie/Kahahawai Play

The production is done by the Kumu Kahua Theater, a venue well-known for their local adaptations and original plays. Historically, the Massie/Kahahawai story is pure controversy, wrapped in intrigue, but besides the fact that it's content and dialogue was extracted from historic sources (newspaper articles, books, etc), the play doesn't do it much justice. Pardon the pun.

As a warning, this play is not for those with Attention Deficit Disorder. If it's rapidly shifting scenarios (are they in the courtroom or in the mayor's office now?) and schizophrenic ensemble cast (with only a few notable accent changes to differentiate between characters) doesn't bewilder you, then the lead actress' quasi-gymnastic stage falls (which is meant to suggest she is being assaulted) will surely do the trick.

In terms of drama, the return value is high. You're bound to enjoy the roller-coaster ride of comedy, over-the-top drama, and sadness this play will deliver. Unexpected musical numbers serve as expository lumps for the intriguing docu-play. A particularly moving Hawaiian song recited by the cast while Kahahawai, Sr. cries at his son's grave and places a Maile lei upon it will surely get the waterworks going.

The play uses some rather creative stage-tactics to enhance the experience (crowds murmur, lights flash, etc.), but there was one problem -- there was no stage. True, their approach of placing the seats on the stage is definitely unique, but it really works against the production.

If you're interested in seeing the play because your friend is in it or because it's a school assignment, I say do it. But if you're planning to attend in hopes of learning more about the case, in lieu of actually reading about it, I say don't do it. It will only leave you bothered and bewildered.