From Broadway classics to local productions, Honolulu’s theaters offer memorable performances that add a cultural flair to your trip.
Every year in Honolulu, you can see a portfolio of shows ranging from spellbinding symphony orchestra performances to comedy improv and dramatic plays written by talented creatives.
Sit amongst Neoclassical architecture, watch a performance in the local Diamond Head neighborhood or see a show in a former post office named after King Kamehameha V.
In this post, we share our local recommendations on where to watch the theater in Honolulu.
Table of Contents
1. Hawaiʻi Theatre
📍 1130 Bethel St, Honolulu
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Hawaii Theatre on Bethel Street has been around since 1922. The approximately 1400-seat theatre is set inside a charming Neoclassical building, with a beautiful Beaux-Arts interior. It is known as “The Pride of the Pacific”.
In its early days, the theatre presented silent films and Vaudeville style entertainment with a full orchestra. In years that followed, it was transformed into a movie palace, until it later closed down.
Several members of the pipe organ volunteer group petitioned to save the theatre from demolition, and by 1986, they had raised enough funds to purchase it.
The theatre was renovated and transformed into the new Honolulu Theatre Center we see today. It has since been recognized as an “Outstanding Historic Theatre in America” along with other awards.
Today, the theatre attracts the biggest names in music, drama and comedy to Honolulu, in addition to hosting Children’s Theatre Programs and business conferences.
2. Diamond Head Theatre
📍 520 Makapuʻu Ave, Diamond Head
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The 482-seat Diamond Head Theatre is on the slopes of Diamond Head in Honolulu. It’s America’s oldest continuously running community theatre.
Its story begins with a theatrical group known as “The Footlights” who played their first performance at Honolulu Opera House in 1915. By 1934, they had become known as the Honolulu Community Theatre, performing throughout the Pacific region for troops during World War II.
When the war was over, they took up residence at Fort Ruger Theatre – the army’s movie house. As more space was required, it was refurbished to include a costume center and scene shop.
In 1990, Honolulu Community Theatre was renamed Diamond Head Theatre, offering dance classes, theatrical arts, acting and voice training.
Some of the new theatres earliest performances included “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” and “Meet me in St. Louis”.
The theatre has recently been updated, and patrons can support its mission by sponsoring a seat with their name on it!
3. Mānoa Valley Theatre
📍 2833 E Mānoa Rd, Mānoa
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This charming theatre is known as “Honolulu’s Off-Broadway Playhouse”. Manoa Valley Theatre, affectionately known as MVT, is located on E Manoa Road in Honolulu, boasting 150 seats.
The theatre has been a hub of the cultural landscape since 1969 when it was founded by students from the University of Hawaii Theatre Department. Their aim was to unite the community through artistic performances crafting a unique theatre experience for all.
Some of their earliest plays included the “Three Penny Opera”, “The Caretaker” and “Mirage” showcased between 1969 and 1970.
Today, in addition to regular shows and performances, Manoa Valley Theatre Studio also offers Improv courses, TV & Film technique classes and arts education for all ages.
4. Leeward Community College Theatre
📍 96-045 Ala ʻIke St, Pearl City
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Leeward Theatre, located at Ala ‘Ike, Pearl City, was founded as part of Leeward Community College back in 1974. The 628-seat theatre is a gathering place to share art and performances.
In 2024, the theatre will present a 50th Anniversary Celebration, placing a special focus on community talent and those who shaped the theatre in its early years.
Other noteworthy elements of the Leeward Theatre include a 100-foot mural in the lobby by renowned artist and teacher Jean Charlot. The giant painting depicts his love for the islands and Hawaiian people.
5. Kumu Kahua Theatre
📍 46 Merchant St, Honolulu
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Kumu Kahua Theatre on Merchant Street was founded in 1971, by University of Hawaii at Manoa students who wanted a space to produce their experimental works.
Some of their earlier plays included a Hawaiian adaptation of a Shakespeare work called “Twelf Night O Wateva!” and “Aloha Las Vegas”.
In the 1990s, the non-profit were awarded the former King Kamehameha V post office to transform into the playhouse we see today. It was named “Kumu Kahua” as the words translate to “original stage” in the local language.
The 100-seat playhouse features plays about Hawaiian life written by local playwrights, with many performed in regional dialects.
One of the unique aspects to Kumu Kahua Theatre is that they allow upcoming local writers to submit scripts about life in Hawaii, with some even being produced. They also host classes in improv, acting and playwriting.
6. Kennedy Theatre
📍 1770 East-West Rd, Honolulu
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Set amid the lush landscapes of Oahu, Kennedy Theatre hosts dance and theatre events throughout the year. The theatre is located on the campus of University of Hawai’i at Manoa has been showcasing performances by students since 1963.
The theatre consists of the Mainstage with 619 seats. It has an old-world charm, with velvet stage curtains and wood panels on the walls that provide exceptional acoustics. Earle Ernst Lab Theatre, is another venue with 147 seats, named after long-standing University faculty members. Entertainment on both stages comes in many forms – from Asian and Hawaiian theatre productions to elaborate dance performances, Euro-American classics and experimental works. Visitors can book to see afternoon matinees and a selection of evening shows, and the tickets are reasonably priced.
In summary, a night out at the theater in Honolulu is a wonderful way to experience the Hawaiian Islands’ diverse arts scene.
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