HAWAII ENTERTAINMENT78

“Rock-A-Hula!” is the brand’s only production that was developed specifically for the market in which it is being presented; a Hawaiian theme is woven throughout the show. For example, the opening segment features traditional chants, kahiko (ancient) hula, the sweet scent of pikake (Arabian jasmine) and spectacular scenery projected on four-story-high screens. The audience joins the cast in singing the closing number, “Aloha ‘Oe,” composed by Princess Lili‘uokalani in 1878 (she became Hawaii’s last queen 13 years later).

Like their counterparts in other cities, “Rock-A-Hula!’s” tribute artists spent countless hours studying video and audio recordings of the celebrities that they portray, including hairstyles, wardrobe, makeup, mannerisms and movements. The result? They look and sound so much like the actual stars, you’ll have a hard time telling them apart!

Michael Jackson does the moonwalk and waves a white-gloved hand to the rhythmic “Billie Jean.” Elvis commands the stage with his signature hip gyrations, sequin-studded costumes and platinum hits such as “Rock-A-Hula Baby,” which inspired the show’s name. The King of Rock ’n’ Roll sang that song in the 1961 movie Blue Hawaii, which was filmed on the islands.

Except for Elvis, who had special ties to Hawaii, the lineup of Legends changes every six to 12 months, which keeps the show fresh. With elaborate sets, fabulous special effects and state-of-the-art laser, lighting and sound systems, it’s a must for your O‘ahu itinerary.

Legends in Concert Waikiki’s “Rock-A-Hula!” is presented at the Royal Hawaiian Theater, 2201 Kalākaua Ave., Building B, 4th Floor. Shows are 8 p.m. nightly except Monday. A variety of cocktail and dining packages are available. For details, call 808.629.SHOW (7469) or visit Rock-A-Hula.com.

Photos courtesy of Legends in Concert W

aikiki

LAS VEGAS, HAWAIIAN STYLE LEGENDS IN CONCERT WAIKIKI’S “ROCK-A-HULA!” IS A MUST-SEEBy Cheryl Chee Tsutsumi

Legends in Concert Waikiki invites you to “Rock-A-Hula!” with Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, a live five-piece band and more than a dozen dancers at a multimedia musical celebration the whole family will enjoy. The fun, fast-paced show is the newest for the brand, which, hailed as the pioneer of celebrity tribute shows, celebrated its 30th anniversary last year. Since the first “Legends in Concert” show debuted in Las Vegas in 1983, various casts have performed in 15 countries on five continents.

Michael Jackson thrills the crowdat the 750-seat Royal Hawaiian Theater

Mature Elvis rocks out witha live band and backup singers

The Green Room Dinner & Showpackage includes prime stageside seating

“Rock-A-Hula!” features the largest cast in Waikiki