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Hawaiian culture comes to Gunnison: Casino Star Theatre hosts ‘Pa‘akai We Bring’

By Staff | Jan 15, 2025

GUNNISON–Prepare for a night of cultural immersion as the Casino Star Theatre presents Pa’akai We Bring, a captivating musical play by the Honolulu Theatre for Youth. This family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m., as part of the Casino Star Theatre Foundation’s 20th Anniversary Live Performance Series.

Pa’akai We Bring is a vibrant celebration of Native Hawaiian culture, created by HTY artistic leaders Moses Goods and Eric Johnson alongside the production’s performers. The 60-minute performance combines music, dance, storytelling, and original songs to explore the deep significance of pa’akai (salt) in Hawaiian traditions. Through tales of Kaua’i’s salt harvesting practices, audiences will gain insight into how this treasured gift is woven into the fabric of Hawaiian life as food, medicine, and sacrament.

“In Hawai’i, we have a special relationship with pa’akai,” shared creator Moses Goods. “It’s more than salt; it’s a cherished part of our lives and traditions. We’re excited to share our stories with your family.”

The performance will conclude with a talkback session, giving audience members an opportunity to engage with the cast and learn more about Hawaiian culture.

Free workshop brings Hawaiian traditions to life

Before the play, the public is invited to a free workshop at 5 p.m. at Gunnison City Hall, where HTY’s artists will lead participants through Hawaiian songs, dances, and stories. Attendees will also get a hands-on introduction to the instruments used in hula and Hawaiian music.

Immediately following the workshop, the Casino Star Theatre Foundation will host a Sponsor and Patron Appreciation Reception to honor the community’s support of local arts.

Tickets and event details

Tickets for Pa’akai We Bring are $15 per person or $50 for an immediate family pass. They can be purchased at the door, the box office, or by calling 435-979-9235.

A legacy of excellence in theater and culture

Founded in 1955, Honolulu Theatre for Youth is one of the nation’s premier professional theaters for young audiences, known for inspiring creativity and fostering cultural understanding. Pa’akai We Bring is part of HTY’s international tour, bringing Hawaiian traditions to communities across North America.

This event is made possible through the support of local sponsors, including Roland and Julia Christenson, Central Utah Radiology, Ensign Engineering, Kevin Rasmussen Excavating, Redmond Minerals, Rocky Mountain Power, State Bank of Southern Utah, Dr. Richard Nay, Robert and Jeannette Andersen, Jim and Suzanne Sanders, the Utah Division of Arts and Museums, Creative West, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

As the Casino Star Theatre Foundation celebrates 20 years as a nonprofit, it remains committed to preserving the historic theater and delivering exceptional cultural events to the community.

Upcoming event

Mark your calendars for the next live performance in the series: “Cash’d Out: The Next Best Thing to Johnny Cash” on Feb. 14.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the beauty, history, and storytelling of Pa’akai We Bring. This unforgettable performance will celebrate the spirit of aloha and leave a lasting impression on the Gunnison community.