The End of an Era at the Waikiki Beach Marriott

October 24, 2016 • Addison Ching • Entertainment

The traditional Thursday night entertainment at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa is coming to a close.

In a Facebook announcement posted on October 24, 2016, Alan Akaka announced the disappointing news.

"It is with great sadness to announce that this Thursday, October 27 will be the Islanders' last performance at Moana Terrace in the Waikiki Beach Marriott. For me it was a nice long run of 20 plus years starting in the mid 90?s with Auntie Genoa & Her Hawaiians at the Lobby Bar then the Keawe Ohana in the 2000?s and then Alan Akaka & the Islanders in June of 2016. I will leave with a shipload of memories of creating musical art with so many artists and guest artists. With all the hula dancers and friends including those from around the world who planned their vacations to include Thursday evenings at the Marriott. I will miss seeing you there."

When asked why he was not going to be at the Marriott anymore, Akaka replied, "I'm told the management wants a new music format. All the groups were terminated last month. We're just the last to go."

Alan Akaka and The Islanders continued the Hawaiian music tradition when the Keawe 'Ohana show closed on June 2, 2016 after more than 25 years in Waikiki. Beginning with Aunty Genoa Keawe and her family and continuing on after her passing with her son Gary Aiko, her granddaughter Pomaika'i Lyman, her neice Momi Bee Kahawaiola'a, and Alan Akaka, the weekly show has presented traditional Hawaiian song and dance to hotel guests and local residents alike. Many local musicians including Jeff Au Hoy, Greg Sardinha, and Jerry Santos dropped by on a regular basis. Guests could always count on Kimo Kahoano singing his signature "Aloha Friday, No Work Till Monday" whenever he and his wife Leilani came to the show.

One of the "features" that will be missed is the tradition Aunty Genoa first started at the Hawaiian Regent Hotel (and continued at the Marriott when her show was relocated) of inviting guest musicians on stage to perform. Many musicians were given their first public performance challenge on stages of the Hawaiian Regent and Marriott. Alan himself was given that same opportunity with Aunty Genoa, and continued that tradition at his group's show.

It is unclear if there will be a replacement venue or show, but any information about this will be provided when it becomes available.