Seeking the secret of Okinawa’s legendary longevity, Swedish traveler Nicolina Svensen arrives on the famed Blue Zone island and discovers a culture caught between past and present, where ancestral foodways, sacred rituals, and handcrafts are quietly disappearing. Surrounded by Okinawa’s luminous landscapes and embraced by the people she meets, Nico begins to understand that the wisdom she sought was never hidden in some distant secret. It lives in everyday acts of community, reverence for nature, and knowledge passed from one generation to the next. Her journey becomes a meditation on what we preserve, what we risk losing, and what it truly means to live fully. From the makers of HAPPY SANDWICH, a HIFF 2023 selection, CHURA VITA is a soulful, visually transporting journey through Okinawa that celebrates an enduring way of life while contemplating its uncertain future in a rapidly changing world.

In a forgotten desert town, Tree, a solitary racetrack janitor with an extraordinary gift for drifting, is given one last chance to compete at the professional level. Haunted by personal tragedy and accustomed to navigating life alone, he soon discovers that raw talent behind the wheel is not enough. Under the guidance of a hardened mentor and surrounded by a tight-knit community of racers, he must learn to trust others and embrace the family he never knew he needed. Co-written, directed, co-produced (along with Brian Yang of HAWAII FIVE-O and LINSANITY), and starring Sung Kang, DRIFTER is both a classic hero’s journey and a heartfelt love letter to car culture. Rooted in the spirit of grassroots drifting—a sport that found an early home in Hawaiʻi in the 1990s through bootleg VHS tapes from Japan before spreading across the U.S. continent—the film captures the authenticity, camaraderie, and passion of the drifting community. Eschewing the eventual Hollywood slopification of the later FAST & FURIOUS films, DRIFTER delivers thrilling practical racing action while celebrating the people who live for the drive.

EA (Sovereign), directed by Noah Keone Viernes and Sancia Miala Shiba Nash, follows Kanaka ʻŌiwi leader and cultural steward Keʻeaumoku Kapu and his family as they fight to reclaim their ancestral lands in Kauaʻula Valley, Maui. Through personal memories, family histories, and generations of resistance, the film traces the enduring impacts of the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, plantation agriculture, militarization, and unchecked development on Native Hawaiian land and water rights. Blending archival materials, chants, songs, animation, maps, legal records, and contemporary community life, EA embodies the Hawaiian principle “I ka wā ma mua, ka wā ma hope”—the future is found in the past. Centered on Kapu’s nearly two-decade struggle through the courts and within his community, the film is a powerful testament to Indigenous resilience, cultural sovereignty, and the ongoing movement to restore stewardship of Hawaiʻi’s lands and waters for future generations.

From the echoes of the battlefield to the rhythms of slow cinema and the irreverence of ribald comedy, these stories find grace, humor, and healing in the messy ties that bind us to home. Films included in this program: Dan & Kat Hide a Body | 20 min Massagers 4 Sale | 12 min Oli | 19 min PR | 28 Who Raised You | 16 min

MAKING THE LINE is a character-driven feature documentary that delves into the world of competitive Hula — where athleticism and artistry are inseparable from a living Hawaiian cultural tradition. At its heart are Kumu Keano and Kumu Lono, two master Hula teachers and life partners who lead a diverse group of dancers striving for excellence in the art and discipline of Hula. Guided by these two modern-day queer Kanaka whose lives infuse the story with emotional truth and cultural nuance, MAKING THE LINE unfolds over three years, exploring tradition, resilience, and identity in a rapidly changing Hawaiʻi. As the demands of excellence intensify, so do the complexities of life both on and off the line. Their story becomes a portrait of devotion, transformation, and the enduring power of Hula — revealing that it is far more than dance; it is the heartbeat of a people.

For decades, Kahoʻolawe endured use as a bombing range by the U.S. military, leaving profound scars across an island sacred to Native Hawaiians. This documentary chronicles the history of Kahoʻolawe, the formation of the Protect Kahoʻolawe ʻOhana (PKO), and the extraordinary movement that fought to reclaim and restore the island. Marking the 50th anniversary of the first landing by the “Kahoʻolawe Nine,” whose courageous actions in 1976 galvanized a movement that ultimately helped end military bombing, directors Mark Carpenter and Corbin Gregory journey to Kahoʻolawe to witness the ʻohana’s work firsthand. Through intimate personal stories, historical reflection, and the ongoing restoration of the ʻāina, the film honors generations of activists, cultural practitioners, and community members who dedicated themselves to protecting the island. More than a history of resistance, it is a testament to aloha ʻāina—the enduring relationship between people and land—and the continuing responsibility to heal and safeguard Kahoʻolawe for future generations.

Sairi Ito delivers an endearing and tenacious performance as Majimu, a timid office temp in Okinawa whose ordinary life takes an unexpected turn when she enters a company contest with an audacious idea: create a locally made rum using Okinawan sugarcane. She may have no experience in distilling spirits, but what Majimu lacks in expertise she makes up for in curiosity, determination, and an unwavering belief in her island’s potential. As she confronts skeptical bosses, family doubts, bureaucratic hurdles, and local politics, her seemingly impossible dream begins to inspire those around her. Based on an uplifting true story, director Kaoru Haga transforms one woman’s entrepreneurial journey into a warmhearted celebration of perseverance, community, and Okinawan pride. Anchored by Ito’s irresistible performance, PUREHEARTED is an inspiring reminder that even the most unlikely idea can take root when someone has the courage and tenacity to see it through.

In 1980, Nainoa Thompson became the first Native Hawaiian in six centuries to navigate a voyaging canoe from Hawaiʻi to Tahiti without a compass or modern instruments. Nearly 50 years later, he returns to the open ocean for one final, extraordinary crossing. Accompanied by a small crew of student navigators, Thompson journeys 2,400 miles along the ancestral sea road, guided only by the stars, the rhythms of nature, and the teachings of the late master navigator Mau Piailug. This voyage is more than a test of endurance. It is a responsibility to carry forward an ancient knowledge system—and a deeply personal search for something beyond the horizon. THE NAVIGATOR is a powerful meditation on legacy, discovery, and what becomes possible when we learn to observe, listen, and reconnect with the natural world.

In modern-day Chaoshan, Xiaowei is broke, directionless, and convinced the answer to his problems lies with a grandfather who vanished decades ago and may still be living in Thailand—with a sizeable fortune. Treating his family''s past as a last-ditch debt relief plan, Xiaowei embarks on a journey that begins as a comic adventure but gradually unfolds into something far more profound. Through qiaopi—the letters and remittances exchanged between overseas Chinese and their families back home—he uncovers a moving story of enduring love, sacrifice, and devotion that kept his grandmother waiting for half a century. Told in the Chaoshan (Teochew) dialect, DEAR YOU is a heartfelt celebration of family, memory, and the enduring bonds of the Chinese diaspora across Southeast Asia. Eschewing blockbuster spectacle for deeply human storytelling, the film has become one of China''s sleeper hits of the year, propelled by extraordinary word of mouth and two breakout performances from Li Sitong and Wang Yantong. Through qiaopi—the letters and remittances exchanged between overseas Chinese and their families back home—he uncovers a moving story of enduring love, sacrifice, and devotion that kept his grandmother waiting for half a century. Told in the Chaoshan (Teochew) dialect, DEAR YOU is a heartfelt celebration of family, memory, and the enduring bonds of the Chinese diaspora across Southeast Asia. Eschewing blockbuster spectacle for deeply human storytelling, the film has become one of China''s sleeper hits of the year, propelled by extraordinary word of mouth and two breakout performances from Li Sitong and Wang Yantong.

Before ROCKY became an American classic, Sylvester Stallone was an unknown actor with an audacious belief: he wasn’t just meant to write the film—he had to play Rocky Balboa himself. Directed by Academy Award winner Peter Farrelly (GREEN BOOK), I PLAY ROCKY dramatizes the electrifying true story behind one of cinema’s greatest underdog tales. Anthony Ippolito (THE OFFER) stars as the young Stallone, struggling to break into Hollywood when he writes a screenplay about a down-on-his-luck Philadelphia boxer given one impossible shot at glory. As studios circle the script but resist Stallone’s insistence on starring, he refuses to surrender the role, betting his career and future on himself. Featuring an ensemble cast including Matt Dillon, AnnaSophia Robb, Tracy Letts, Jay Duplass, and Stephan James, I PLAY ROCKY arrives nearly 50 years after the original film’s 1976 debut—a rousing reminder that sometimes the greatest gamble is believing in your own story.

Fun, kid-friendly films from both around the world and close to home. Recommended for keiki under 10 years old. Short Films included in the program: Da Farm | 22 min Grounded | 4 min In The Stillness of the Night | 11 min Ramen Western | 8 min Shared Responsibility | 4 min Sprout | 12 min Ulu Maika | 10 min

Weekend Pass granting access to all Hawai'i International Film Festival (HIFF) screenings at the historic Hilo Palace Theater from Nov 12-15th. The Hilo Palace Theater is honored to welcome the 46th annual Hawai’i International Film Festival for exciting slate of feature and short film premieres from around the world with a special focus on Asia, the Pacific, and Made-in-Hawaiʻi productions.

Live in concert with special guest Justin Kawika Young. Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances that seamlessly blend elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four, quickly developing a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, introducing millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential. Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborated with an array of legendary artists—including Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood—and performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music. Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach, frequently performing at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.

The Friends of the Palace Theater is proud to present LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS as our 2026 Fall Musical production! The annual Fall Musical show is our flagship fundraising event of the year, 100% of show proceeds directly support our mission to restore, revitalize and sustain the historic Palace Theater as a venue that will educate, entertain and inspire our diverse community. Show synopsis: The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" - after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II's out of this world origins and intent towards global domination! Written by Howard Ashman Composed by Alan Menken Direction by Duckie Teves Music Direction by Jace Saplan Choreography by Elyse Stevens Little Shop of Horrors is presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI). All Authorized Performance materials are also supplied by MTI. Doors open 60 min prior to showtime TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW $20 Open General - F row and up, open seating $35 Priority Reserve - Orchestra section First 4 rows of auditorium, extra leg room *All sales final. Tickets are non-refundable or transferable. Open General seats are selected by Patron upon arrival to theater on day of show. Priority Reserve Seating is assigned within ticketed section for all performances. Seats are selected by patron at time of ticket purchase. All tickets $5 more on day of 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.

Live Pipe Organ Performance The Hilo Palace Theater and the Hilo Theatre Organ Society are proud to present Charlie Chaplin's classic comedy "The Gold Rush" accompanied by a live score performed on the Mighty Palace Pipe Organ by organist Walter Greenwood. Silent Movie Night events are joint fundraisers between the Friends of the Palace Theater and the Hilo Theatre Organ Society to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance of the Mighty Palace Pipe Organ. TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW $12 in Advance $15 Day of Show *All Sales Final. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. Seating is open for this performance. Seats are selected by patron upon arrival at the theater

The Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized worldwide as living legends of gospel music. Celebrated by The National Endowment for the Arts and The GRAMMYs with Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and winners of six GRAMMY® Awards, they have attained the highest levels of achievement in a career that spans over 70 years. The Blind Boys Christmas Show mixes holiday standards with selections from their Grammy-winning holiday classic album, Go Tell It On The Mountain and the spirited Talkin’ Christmas album. Blind Boys will have everyone in the audience singing and clapping along to spread the joy of the season! “The beloved gospel ensemble the Blind Boys of Alabama...remains perennially fresh, whether it’s interjecting godliness into unexpected songs or, as in this case, saluting Christmas.” – The New Yorker Presented by Tim Bostock

Hilo's Largest Haunted House experience. Friday, October 30th & Saturday, October 31st from 7:00-10:00pm BEWARE: Disturbed souls run amuck. The Haunted Palace is an immersive haunted house attraction featuring 20+ scare zones throughout the theater and surrounding grounds. Keep your hands to yourself while perusing the Cabinet of Curiosities, don't lose your party in the Labyrinth of Shadows, the Spider Queen spins her web around a new victim, and certainly don't stop to smell the gardener's flowers. Terrors await around every bend. WARNING: Course may not be appropriate for children 12 and under, chaperones recommended. The Haunted Palace features strobe effects, loud sounds, heavy fog, darkness, lazers, scenes of violence, clowns. The course features flights of stairs and tight spaces. Portions of the route are outdoors and subject to weather conditions. The event will take place rain or shine. Closed toed shoes recommended. Your ticket guarantees entrance to The Haunted Palace experience for the night it is issued for (ie a ticket for Friday grants admission to Friday). Check in curb side upon arrival to the theater. Groups will be lead through every few minutes, entrance is first come first serve. Anticipate a wait time to get in. Wait time depends on crowd size. Tickets are limited, buy in advance. Event operates from 7:00pm until 10:00pm both nights, recommended to arrive between 7:00-9:00pm on the night of your ticket. Performers will not touch you, do not touch them. Flash lights are not allowed on the course. Content Warning: This event features flashing lights, loud noises, fog, lazer effects, and is not for the faint of heart!

Love, Surrender & Devotion. Larry Dupio and the Palace Theater are proud to present a live tribute concert of The Music of Carlos Santana. Larry Dupio is joined by world class musicians to perform Santana's music from the Palace stage. The band features: Details: Larry Dupio - Lead Guitar Ed Bisquera - Keys Yumbel Marassi - Bass Trever Veilleux - 2nd Guitar Michael Suprenant - Drums Josh Timmons - Vocals Reggae McGowen - Congas Leo Brayman - Timbali Pohai Henderson - Vocals MAHALO to our SPONSORS supporting this show: Tim Gresback Big Island Brewhaus Hale Kanekapila Hilo Lunch Club Netcom