The MACC will be collecting donations for the Maui Food Bank during this event. We ask that our patrons bring non-perishable items for those impacted by the wildfires. Donation bins will be located near the MACC's main entry gates.
This year’s Kū Mai Ka Hula competition features award-winning hālau from around Hawai‘i, Japan, and the continental U.S. Competitors will be judged by renowned kumu hula, from around the pae ʻāina of Hawaiʻi, to include Kumu Hula Taupori Tangaro, Kumu Hula Ulalia Woodside Lee, Kumu Hula Maka Herrod, and Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata.
Events schedule:
Designing the ʻAʻahu - Thurs, Sept 11, 7:30 pm, McCoy Studio Theater
The 2025 Kū Mai Ka Hula competition weekend begins with presentations from accomplished Maui Kumu Hula about the knowledge, inspiration, and overall vision that is required for costuming their ʻōlapa (dancers). We have all been impressed by the beautiful and elaborate `a`ahu on stage at various competitions. What did it take to decide on the look and the materials? Where were they going to be resourced from? There are so many things to think about in designing the ʻaʻahu that will complete the Kumu Hulaʻs beautiful presentation.
Hōkūlani Holt
Kū Mai Ka Hula - Castle Theater
- Fri, Sept 12, 6:00 pm - Solo Competition & Awards Ceremony
- Sat, Sept 13, 1:00 pm - Group Competition & Awards Ceremony
In its 18th year, the Kū Mai Ka Hula competition will feature award-winning hālau competing in solo, group and kūpuna categories. Male and female dancers perform both kahiko (traditional) and ‘auana (modern) hula stylings. Expect to see hālau competing in a level of performance as seen in other well-known prestigious hula competitions, yet this event takes place at the MACC's Castle Theater on Maui.
Attendees can browse and shop displays of made-in-Hawaiʻi products from an array of crafters and artisans before and throughout Saturday’s performances. A full selection of food & beverages will be available for purchase in the Yokouchi Pavilion Courtyard.
- Pre-show entertainment on Friday will begin at 4:30 pm by the Kamehameha Schools Maui Hawaiian Ensemble in the Yokouchi Pavilion, and the solo competition begins in the Castle Theater at 6:00 pm.
- On Saturday, the pre-show starts at 11:30 am and the competition begins at 1:00 pm. Each day of competition will conclude with an awards ceremony.
Kū Mai Ka Hula audience members are permitted to take photos and videos during the performances using a cell phone or point-and-shoot camera—no professional equipment is allowed. Please be respectful of patrons sitting near you and do not block anyone’s view of the competition. DO NOT USE A FLASH! It disrupts the competition and can distract the dancers.
Kū Mai Ka Hula is presented by Maui Arts & Cultural Center in association with Kauahea Inc., a nonprofit organization founded by Hōkūlani Holt to support Hawaiian arts and culture.
TICKETS: $38 adults; and $21 for kids 12 & under - each day (ALL fees included).
TWO DAY discounted price is $35/day for adults if both competition days are purchased together (ALL fees included).
MACC member discount of 10% applies
TICKET SALES ARE ONLINE ONLY
Tickets on sale at 10 am on Thursday, August 14.
The MACC Box Office is currently not open for window sales. For general inquiries only, email the Box Office.
Kū Mai Ka Hula audience members are permitted to take photos and videos during the performances using a cell phone or point-and-shoot camera—no professional equipment is allowed. Please be respectful of patrons sitting near you and do not block anyone’s view of the competition. DO NOT USE A FLASH! It disrupts the competition and can distract the dancers.
