An evening of Stand up comedy with Augie T. Over the past 30 years, Augie Tulba has become one of the most sought-after public speakers in Hawaii, moderators, and emcees in the State. His dynamic presence and ability to keep audiences engaged and excited sets him apart as a keynote speaker for both large and small venues. Whether he is speaking in a packed theatre or moderating in a more intimate room setting, Augie is able to connect with and inspire every type of audience.

The centuries old vampire Count Dracula comes to England to seduce his barrister Jonathan Harker's fiancée Mina Murray and inflict havoc in the foreign land.

The 100 year anniversary date. Take a trip back in time to experience film the way it was presented when the Palace opened in 1925: accompanied by a live score. We are proud to present a special screening of Phantom of the Opera (1925) accompanied by a live score performed on the Mighty Palace Pipe Organ by Walter Greenwood.

Celebrate the Centennial with Paula Fuga and Friends! A live family friendly concert event to celebrate 100 years of the Palace Theater. 6pm: Drew Daniels and the East Side Allstars featuring Kuulei, Willz, Pohai, Sarah Bethany, Imani Avanti and Sonni Shine 8pm: Paula Fuga Seating is reserved within ticketed sections. Proceeds benefit the Historic Palace Theater

When a shy groom practices his wedding vows in the inadvertent presence of a deceased young woman, she rises from the grave assuming he has married her.

An evening to be grateful! The Palace Theater and Uila Records proudly present Althea Later live in concert. Hawaii's all-star band is made up of Dan Brauer on guitar/vocals, Jason Sherbundy on keyboards/vocals, Jason Smith on bass/vocals, and Kristin Bolton on drums.

Henry Spencer tries to survive his industrial environment, his angry girlfriend, and the unbearable screams of his newly born mutant child.

A loyal dog moves to a rural family home with his owner Todd, only to discover supernatural forces lurking in the shadows. As dark entities threaten his human companion, the brave pup must fight to protect the one he loves most.

Laurie Sumiye’s film is an enchanting, yet harrowing tale of the yellow finch of Palila v. Hawai‘i, a landmark case where nature took humanity to court to stave off extinction. A PARADISE LOST unfolds through the POV of the animated Palila called Anuenue who stood as the client in 1979 court trials. The legal battle leveraged the Endangered Species Act to protect māmane forests where 2,500 Palila competed with introduced sheep & goats. He explains how they won in court, but are still in jeopardy; in 2024, only 300 Palila remain. Today, a Native Hawaiian conservationist struggles to save them amidst escalating threats of climate change, wildfires, introduced predators, diseases, and governmental neglect.

In May 2024, Samoa was rocked by the shocking news that acclaimed novelist and poet Sia Figiel had killed her close friend, also a poet. For eight years, Hawai‘i-based filmmaker Kimberlee Bassford (PATSY MINK: AHEAD OF THE MAJORITY) had been documenting Sia’s life and career when the tragedy unfolded. This powerful film shifts from portrait to reckoning, exploring the complexities of untreated mental illness, the stigma surrounding it, and its devastating ripple effects on families and communities.

with short films TWISTED BRAID & A LINE TO DRAW CHRISTY synopsis: Sydney Sweeney delivers a tour-de-force performance as trailblazing boxer Christy Martin in CHRISTY, a fierce story of survival and self-discovery. From her early days in West Virginia “Toughwoman” contests to breaking barriers in professional boxing, Christy fights her way to the top of a male-dominated sport. But outside the ring, she faces a volatile marriage to her coach Jim Martin (Ben Foster), marked by abuse and control. Sweeney embodies Martin’s grit and vulnerability in this riveting true-life drama of self-actualization in the face of terrifying adversity. A LINE TO DRAW synopsis: In a poignant journey of self-discovery and environmental activism, "A Line to Draw" captures Kahana's efforts to reconnect with his Hawaiian roots by rescuing a coral reef from a dangerous rogue fishing net, mirroring his personal struggle to reclaim his cultural identity after years away in the city. TWISTED BRAID synopsis: A love letter to a little town built on culture, connection, and creativity.

Plastic pollution threatens to overwhelm our oceans, with projections that by 2050 it could outweigh all marine life. Directed by Georgia Scott and narrated by Woody Harrelson, KULEANA uses Hawai‘i’s fragile beauty as a backdrop to explore this global crisis. Former MLB player Chris Dickerson and athletes like Kolten Wong, Kai Lenny, Kimi Werner, and Mike Coots join scientists and NGOs to reveal both the wonder of Hawai‘i and the urgent call to protect it.

Produced and directed by Maui residents with deep Lāhainā roots, LAHAINA RISING is the definitive documentary delving into the life-altering events of August 8th, 2023, when the historic town was devastated by the largest wildfire in American history. The fire obliterated the entire town, displacing over 13,000 residents who continue to face ongoing hardships. This film not only sheds light on the injustices faced by Lāhainā natives in the aftermath of the fire, but systemic issues posed to the people of Hawai’i for generations. Through devastation and destruction, a community comes together and rises from its ashes.

Introverted lesbian space princess Saira embarks on a mission to rescue her ex from evil incel aliens, enlisting the help of an enby popstar and a cantankerous boomer spaceship. Brimming with colors as bright as its gay in-jokes, and shades of offbeat animated romps like ADVENTURE TIME and SCOTT PILGRIM, LESBIAN SPACE PRINCESS is a frenetic sci-fi-comedy musical that isn’t afraid to ‘lez’ it all out.

A violent and reckless samurai is shipwrecked on a remote island left without an avenue for his rage. After undertaking a spiritual journey to appease his aggressive thoughts, he finds himself abducted by external demons taking the form of cannibals, putting his sense of reality and deadly talents to the test. A blend of classic chanbara with some acid-trip BONE TOMAHAWK tinges, the film is both old school and existential with a stellar performance by Shogen as the eponymous LONE SAMURAI.

Featuring the following films: THE ARRANGEMENTS, SLACK TIDE, BREAKING THE TIDE, WHAT WE CARRY, DASHER, BIRDS OF PARADISE THE ARRANGEMENTS : Three Micronesian boys in Hawaii have a day to prepare for a funeral and find their friend’s hidden treasure. SLACK TIDE: On his last day in Hawaii before returning to school, a young man drifts through moments with family and friends, quietly reflecting on what it means to leave home behind. BREAKING THE TIDE: On the North Shore of Oahu, siblings Jesse and Hunter are shaped by the unforgiving surf culture and their father's relentless pressure. What begins as playful dares escalates into a dangerous rivalry, pushing them toward a life-altering reckoning with their fears, their bond, and the powerful tides that control them both. WHAT WE CARRY: After years of heartbreaking miscarriages, Sala and her husband are losing hope of becoming parents. But when tragedy and fate collide, Sala finds herself confronted with an impossible choice. Torn between the weight of her losses and the possibility of a new beginning, she must decide if opening her heart again will bring healing—or a pain too heavy to bear. DASHER: A down-and-out food delivery driver and a wayward restaurant worker team up for a chaotic night of deliveries on Christmas Eve. BIRDS OF PARADISE: Birds of Paradise is a deeply personal exploration of the emotional tides experienced by individuals caught in cycles of unhealthy relationships

PIKE RIVER, starring Melanie Lynskey and Sonya Rockhouse, is a powerful dramatization of one of New Zealand’s worst industrial disasters. The film tells the true story of the 2010 Pike River Mine explosion, which killed 29 men. The devastating event serves as the catalyst for an unflinching fight for justice. As official investigations stall and company leaders evade accountability, the two women form an unbreakable bond and lead a tireless campaign to expose the truth and challenge institutional neglect.

Guided by two-time Oscar winning director Ben Proudfoot and executive producers President Barack and Michelle Obama, this film captures a sacred passing of the torch. Chris Hesse, Ghana’s legendary cameraman, now in his twilight years, stands as both witness and architect of a nation’s cinematic memory. At his side, filmmaker Anita Afonu receives his vision, carrying forward not just a craft, but a legacy woven into the spirit of Ghana itself — a testament to cinema’s timeless power to preserve, transform, and endure.

The nation of Qatar has a street cat population equal to the entire human population of the entire country - and is growing fast. Disease is rampant, and local adoption is rare. 25 CATS FROM QATAR follows one mission - led by a network of multinational underground animal rescuers in Doha and a Milwaukee flight attendant/cat cafe owner - to transport out 25 lucky felines and find homes for them abroad, all the while searching for a long-term solution to the crisis.

All Access weekend pass for the 2025 Hawai'i International Film Festival program at the Hilo Palace Theater. Screenings take place from Nov 13-16

Live in Concert featuring Jackson Waldhoff & Justin Kawika Young. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magical spirit of the holidays as the ukulele virtuoso and beloved ambassador of aloha, Jake Shimabukuro, presents his highly anticipated seasonal extravaganza: Jake Shimabukuro, Holidays in Hawai’i! This festive show promises to be a sensational gift to music lovers worldwide, delivering an unforgettable experience filled with joy, warmth, and the infectious charm of the ukulele. Jake Shimabukuro’s unparalleled talent on the ukulele has captivated audiences around the globe, and now he’s here to spread his unique brand of holiday cheer. Prepare to be enchanted as he strums his way through a dynamic repertoire that combines his signature show favorites with a vibrant collection of holiday classics. From the timeless melodies of “We Three Kings” and “O Holy Night” to the playful tunes of “All I Want For Christmas Is You” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” Jake will transport you to a musical wonderland, reimagining these beloved songs in his own inimitable style. But that’s not all! As a special treat, Jake will also showcase selections from his new album “Grateful,” which is the follow-up to the critically acclaimed duets album with artists from Willie Nelson, Ziggy Marley and Bette Midler to Jimmy Buffett, Jack Johnson, and Kenny Loggins. It was these collaborations that inspired him to go back to the beginning and play with the musicians who first inspired him as he was growing up in Hawai`i. Jake shares a connection with each and every artist on this album. Joining Jake Shimabukuro on stage will be the talented bassist Jackson Waldhoff, whose rhythmic prowess will provide the perfect foundation for the melodic brilliance of the ukulele. Additionally, the show will feature the soulful and captivating voice of special guest singer-songwriter Justin Kawika Young. Together, this exceptional ensemble will create an atmosphere of pure merriment, ensuring that spirits remain bright throughout the entire performance. Jake Shimabukuro, Holidays in Hawai’i is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of the holiday season, a fusion of musical excellence, and a testament to the power of harmonious unity. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the magic of the ukulele, and let Jake Shimabukuro transport you to a world where music and the spirit of aloha intertwine to create an unforgettable holiday experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration – book your tickets now and prepare to embark on a musical journey like no other!

An unforgettable FREE concert / dance party for the community in celebration of the Palace Theater's Centennial Year! Opening Kachi Kachi set by Los Compadres Headlined by Leche De Tigre This event is Free to attend, but you must RSVP to reserve a ticket for entry. No reserved seating, first come first serve. Dance floor in front of the stage. Masquerade attire encouraged.

N2 Dance presents an original musical production: “Alice Finds Wonderland” at the Hilo Palace Theater, Wed, Nov 19, 6:30 PM and Thur, Nov 20, 6:30 PM at the Hilo Palace Theater. Pre-sale tickets are available at HiloPalace.com or at the Hilo Palace Theater box office ($20 General, $30 Preferred Seating, $15 keiki 12 and under). Tickets are $5 more on the day of show. This magical musical is presented through acting, singing, and dancing (Hip-hop, Jazz, Hula, B-boy, and Contemporary). It tells the story of Alice (Kaluhea Kekaualua), a modern-day teenager, who has not yet found herself nor her purpose in life and has a strained relationship with her family. One evening Alice sneaks away and through a tragic accident gets sucked into a world called Wonderland. There she encounters many interesting characters such as the Cheshire Cat (Tatianna Vares-Kanaele), the Mad Hatter (Ezra Sugioka-Kai), Cat-a-Pillar (Reef Masaoka), White Queen (Abrea Hahn), Rabbit (Tehani Lawson), Dodo (Miya Yamada), Mouse (Nahla Close), Gecko (M.J. Hahn), and The Dawg (Chiefson Wong) who all play a role in helping her find both herself and her way back home. Along the way, she runs across other characters that distract her or even antagonize her such as the Queen of Hearts (Stella Sundt) and her army, Twiddle Dee (Ari Sugioka-Kai) and Twiddle Dum (Jonah Polloi), and the Flowers. However, her greatest battle is with the Jabberwocky Dragon. In order to defeat the dragon and get back home she must unite all of Wonderland. How will she do this? Come and see!

Experience effervescent dancing and warm, honeyed vocals filling the Palace stage with energy! Nobuntu is a female a cappella quartet from Zimbabwe that radiates joy. Nobuntu has garnered international acclaim for its inventive performances, which range from traditional Zimbabwean songs to Afro-jazz to Gospel. The ensemble’s concerts are performed with pure voices, augmented by minimalistic percussion, traditional instruments such as the Mbira (thumb piano) and organic, authentic dance movements. Nobuntu means ‘mothers of humanity’. The singers come from Bulawayo, the second-largest city in Zimbabwe, where the language spoken chiefly is Ndebele. In Ndebele, ‘no’ stands for ‘mother,’ and ‘ubuntu’ is an umbrella term for everything good — love, peace, forgiveness, and everything that a woman or a mother embraces. The ensemble performs many Mbube-style songs, which is a South African genre. The Mbube genre is dominated by men, making Nobuntu the first all-women Mbube group not only in Zimbabwe but in the world. The ensemble’s mission is based on the belief that music can be a powerful vehicle for change, one that transcends racial, tribal, religious, gender, and economic boundaries. Tickets are On Sale Now.

An intimate catered red carpet event to kick off the 100th anniversary weekend. Tickets include access to the exclusive mixer, catering from Aloha Mondays, a free drink ticket and priority VIP seat to the live theatrical revue stage show: THE CENTENNIAL SHOW.

Step into the spirit of the season with Rocky Mountain High Experience®: A John Denver Christmas—an intimate, nostalgic journey back to the 1970s, when John Denver’s music filled the airwaves and hearts across the country. Led by acclaimed performer Rick Schuler, this enchanting holiday concert features beloved Denver classics like “Rocky Mountain High,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Annie’s Song,” and “Sunshine On My Shoulders.” The evening also includes a heartfelt tribute to Denver’s iconic holiday specials, with seasonal favorites such as “Aspenglow,” “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World,” and “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.” Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering Denver’s music for the first time, this show will leave you feeling inspired and full of holiday cheer. A true celebration for all ages—don’t miss the unforgettable event that brings the magic of John Denver to life.

100 Years at the Palace! A live theatrical revue celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the historic Palace Theater opening her doors to the community. Featuring live performances from Mark Yamanaka, Island Dance Academy, Aerial Arts Hawai'i, Center Stage Dance Alliance, The Hilo Honeys, Walter Greenwood on the mighty Palace Pipe Organ, and more! The show will be MC'd by Jennie Kaneshiro.

A newcomer to a Catholic prep high school falls in with a trio of outcast teenage girls who practice witchcraft and they all soon conjure up various spells and curses against those who even slightly anger them.

When a girl is possessed by a mysterious entity, her mother seeks the help of two priests to save her daughter.

Rocky Horror Picture Show takes the Palace big screen for the annual Halloween showcase spectacular! Doors open at 7pm with pre-show Halloween cartoons 8pm Costume Contest 9pm Film start Synopsis: A newly engaged couple have a breakdown in an isolated area and must pay a call to the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-N-Furter.

The Friends of the Palace Theater is proud to present our Centennial Fall Musical Production: THE WIZARD OF OZ. This wonderful, timeless tale is updated for the Palace stage as a spectacle for all ages to enjoy. Under the direction of Jackie Pualani Johnson. Performances: Friday October 3rd @ 7:00pm Saturday October 4th @ 7:00pm w/ live ASL interpretation Sunday October 5th @ 2:30pm Friday October 10th @ 7:00pm Saturday October 11th @ 7:00pm Sunday October 12th @ 2:30pm Friday October 17th @ 7:00pm Saturday October 18th @ 7:00pm Sunday October 19th @ 2:30pm Box Office, Doors & Concession open 1 hour prior to showtime Live Musical | approx 120 min, has intermission Appropriate for All Ages TICKETS AVAILABLE Tuesday Sept 2nd $15 Keiki 12 and Under $20 General Admission $25 Priority + $5 Reserve Seat fee All sales final. Tickets are non-transferable or refundable. Keiki seats are located within the General Admission section. General Admission tickets are open seating, first come first serve on day of ticketed performance. Priority Tickets are assigned, seats reserved at the time of ticket purchase. THE WIZARD OF OZ is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. www.concordtheatricals.com