by VICTORIA HENLEY
CTFashionMag.com
One of Hawaii’s top-rated attractions on Trip Advisor and countless other review platforms, Rock-A-Hula features a grand scale production with state-of-the-art lighting, graphics, and surround sound technology, as well as a spellbinding line up of music and dance performances paying homage to traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures.
Remaining in sync with the world-class celebrity tribute artists for which the Legends in Concert brand has become synonymous, Rock-A-Hula highlights some of the best tribute artists in the business including Johnny Fortuna (who delivers a spot-on performance of Elvis’s wildly popular Hawaiian concerts, films, and television specials) and William Hall (a Michael Jackson impersonator who has garnered praise from international critics, audiences, and even Michael Jackson’s own family members).
Part of the world-famous Legends in Concert franchise, the Rock-A-Hula show sets itself apart by fully immersing the show in Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures.
Stationed on the top floor of the landmark Royal Hawaiian Center in the bustling arts, shopping, and entertainment district of Waikiki, the acclaimed Rock-A-Hula show is presented in the beautiful 750-seat Royal Hawaiian Theater. The innovative and wildly imaginative creative team behind Rock-A-Hula understands that everyone has unique and individual desires pertaining to their entertainment options. Therefore, several packages are available for a customized, personalized, and fun-filled evening that include features such as dinner, drinks tickets to the show and meet and greets.
Upon arrival, my team and I were escorted to the cabana, which houses all the fun and festivities you’ll experience during the traditional Hawaiian Luau. Enjoy the warm island breezes as Rock-A-Hula’s performers serenade you with both soothing classics and entertain with high octane native dances, all while you sip your refreshing welcome Mai Tai (both traditional and alcohol-free options of this tropical cocktail are available).
The evening’s experience was extremely well-paced , the staff was friendly, knowledgeable and courteous, and the food was fresh, delicious, and artfully presented.
Rock-A-Hula succeeds in achieving the often difficult feat of producing a Luau that is, at once, both upscale and laid back as well as suitable for guests of all ages and backgrounds.
Our menu options included an island roasted whole suckling pig; roast beef with Black Sea salt, teriyaki glazed chicken, Macadamia Crusted Fish of the Day with pickled ginger beurre blanc, passion fruit roasted uala sweet potatoes, vegetarian fried rice, Hawaiian mixed greens with grape tomatoes, house-made papaya and lilikoi dressings, island-style macaroni potato salad, homemade lomilomi salmon, limu tofu poke, freshly baked taro rolls by Elvin’s Bakery with butter, seasonal fresh fruit platter, chocolate dobash cake, coconut haupia, rainbow sorbet by IL Gelato, Freshly brewed Kona blend coffee by Hawaiian Paradise Coffee and Tea.
ROCKIN’ SHOW:
Due to the revolving nature of the show, as well as circumstances beyond productions’ control, the artists’ line up is subject to change.
Featuring a one-of-a-kind show, complete with pulse-pounding musical numbers journeying from the 1920s to contemporary favorites, a talented live band, a full cast of world-class dancers, fire knife dancing (a local art that absolutely must be seen in order to be believed), Rock -A-Hula offers a top-notch variety of acts that will rock your world.
Johnny Fortuna croons many Elvis favorites and seamlessly and effortlessly creates chemistry with the crowd, even presenting several lucky ladies with a kiss and a signature silky white “Rock-A-Hula” emblazoned scarf. (My grandmother, Ramona, who was also in attendance, was the recipient of both.) Fortuna performs a powerful tribute that would undoubtedly make The King proud.
William Hall, a highly decorated Michael Jackson tribute artist, gave a spot-on impersonation.
Rock- A -Hula also features acclaimed local singer/songwriter, Meleana Brown, who gained worldwide fame with her appearance on the reality television competition shows: “American Idol” and “Duets.” Brown, who is known primarily for her uplifting and empowering Christian music, carried the show with powerful vocals and a commanding presence as she emceed the show.
The Fire Dancers concluded the show with an edge of your seat grand finale that featured miraculous feats of agility, strength, fire spinning, and focus that brought an amazed hush over the evening’s nearly sold-out crowd, complete with a breathtaking traditional Polynesian dance by the immensely talented cast of dancers.
Following the show, make your way to Hawaii’s newest destination for nightlife and late -night entertainment at the Music Lounge. The Music Lounge features a sleek, yet relaxed ambiance, an exceptional variety of late-night snack options, and an enticing line up of tropical cocktails, beers, wines, and other libations that will rival the price of any bar on the island. All Music Lounge tickets are free with the Rock-A-Hula admission.
Enjoy the memorabilia housed within the walls of the theater’s lobby including celebrity costumes, Elvis movie posters and an intriguing spotlight detailing the process through which the Michael Jackson tribute artist goes to fully embody his character.
Fabulous food, traditional Hawaiian hospitality, and some of the most thrilling entertainment you’ll find are just a few of the many reasons that this award-winning show continues to garner 5-star ratings as one of the top attractions on the island!
WEBSITE: www.rockahulahawaii.com
PHONE NUMBER: (808) 629-7458
INSTAGRAM @rockahulahi
Victoria Henley writes Backstage Pass for iHeart Radio and CTFashionMag.com