If you’ve ever experienced ‘Ulalena when on Maui, you know how much the performers give to a performance. The show is moving and powerful, but the people behind the characters are who bring the story to life. We recently sat down with Vene Chun, who plays the High Chief (Ali’i) to discover what the show means to him.
Cast Member Vene Chun, his son, and two nephews after an 'Ulalena Performance
Vene is a cultural practitioner whose Hawaiian roots touch everyone he meets. An important figure in Hawaiian Fishpond restoration and master of the sailing canoe (wa’a), Vene truly embodies the Aloha Spirit.
Vene joined ‘Ulalena four years ago and currently plays the role of high chief. In fact, his fourth anniversary was on August 26 of this year. He had never been on the stage, but his commanding presence caught the eye of then stage manager Caro Walker at the local shopping mall. Through hard work and plenty of natural “mana” or life force, Vene is definitely an ‘Ulalena standout.
Throughout the years, what has made you continue to be a part of ‘Ulalena?
“Truly the story itself and carrying the responsibility (or kuleana) of our ancestors. Highlighting the language, mythology, history and self-sustainable lifestyle of the people who originated here, and being able to share the “Ike” (knowledge) of their way of life.”
What’s your favorite scene and character in the show?
“My favorite scene has got to be the Lua scene. It’s full of energy and highlights the secret Hawaiian martial art that people rarely get to experience. My favorite character is Haloa, or the taro, because he is the first ancestor of our kupuna (elders). Hawaiians believe that he is always near, watching the changes and transformations of Hawaiian people. In our mythology Haloa is the strongest warrior of all the Hawaiians.”
Three words to describe the show:
“Our tagline says is best: Creation, Transformation, and Rebirth.”
Three words to describe Hawaiian culture:
The breath, the source, and Akua (God).
How would you describe the show to someone who has never seen it?
I can’t put it into words. ‘Ulalena is a feeling, a story that can only be understood by the heart.
Interested in seeing Vene perform? Tickets to ‘Ulalena can be purchased online via the Maui Theatre’s website, on Facebook (don’t forget to “like” us) or by calling us at 1-877-688-4800. Plus, our V.I.P. packages include an after-show “meet and greet” with Vene and all of ‘Ulalena’s amazing performers!