Makalauna, the special annual festival that honours the late, slack-key virtuoso Charles Philip “Gabby” Pahinui, also affectionately known as “Pops,” has returned to Waikiki Beach Walk.
The installation of the statue of Pahinui beside the Plaza Stage at Waikiki Beach Walk in 2017 marked the beginning of the festival. However, the festival was temporarily halted for the past two years due to COVID. Its return marks not only the comeback of popular activities and events from pre-pandemic times but also a deeply significant cultural event. For some, the occasion will be very personal, as many people closely associated with the legend will be on hand.
This includes members of the Pahinui family, including “Pops’” grandson, Kunia Galdeira, himself an accomplished musician, who will be performing, along with a prestigious gathering of local musical friends, artists, entertainers, apprentices, and devotees of the art form along with admirers of one of Hawaii’s top musicians.
“Makalauna is more than just a celebration of one of Hawaiian music’s most important stars,” said Kumu Blaine Kia, cultural advisor for Waikiki Beach Walk and event organiser. “It showcases the Hawaiian core belief system and our stewardship as the host culture in Waikīkī. It’s also a wonderfully heartwarming gathering where we are all “Friends of Gabby,” and able to show our affection to the man and his music.”
The gathering will be held on Saturday, 15 October 2022, on the grounds of the Waikiki Beach Walk Plaza in front of the statue of Gabby, where the most significant parts of the observance will take place.
The tribute will start with the heralding call of the conch blow, followed by an opening chant. An offering of the hula is then presented, accompanied by song. A notable MC & Host will speak on Gabby’s musical journey, followed by reflections on his life by members of his family and “friends of Gabby”, who will share tributes in the form of lei, oli (chant), mele (song), himeni (choral), and live acoustic accompaniments. Gabby’s grandson Kunia Galdeira will lead the bestowing of lei upon Gabby’s statue.
The general public will then be invited to pay respects. The ceremonies will end with pule (prayer), as everyone locks in arms with a one-ness with Gabbyʻs spirit. The festival is concluded with uplifting live musical tributes by some of Hawaii’s finest musicians and entertainers.
Event Schedule:
Ceremonial Tribute: 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm
- Official MC & Host: Kimo Kahoano, with Waikiki Beach Walk Cultural & Entertainment Director Blaine Kia leading the ceremony
- Special Guest: Kunia Galdeira, the grandson of Gabby Pahinui, leading the lei draping
Live Musical Tributes: 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm
- Jerry Santos & Kamuela Kimokeo, and featuring Kawaikapuokalani Hewett
- Mike Kaʻawa with Paul Kim & Analu Aina
- Special Guest Kunia Galdeira (grandson of Gabby) leading a super “Jam Session”
- Kawika Kahiapo with Dean Wilhelm & Joe Berinobis
