Talk Story with an Advertiser: Palace Theater
If you’re from Hawai‘i Island, then you probably already know about Hilo’s historic Palace Theater.
Located at 38 Haili Street, the theater is home to an array of performances throughout the year; it is a well-established staple for Hawai‘i Island’s diverse community.
In October, the theater celebrated its 90th birthday, an accomplishment that Morgen Bahurinsky, the theater’s Executive Director, describes as “truly outstanding.” “It’s huge. A lot of patrons have expressed their amazement that this place, having been built to be a theater is still being used as a theater today,” she says.
The Palace opened in October, 1925 with the silent film “The Son of Zorro,” starring Douglas Fairbanks. Since then, the theater has hosted everything from award-winning films to plays such as “Mary Poppins the Musical,” which concluded a run in October.
The Palace will host the “Kalapana Kanikapila” on November 1. This live, free event, features the family and friends of the late Uncle Robert Keli‘iho‘omalu, as part of the theater’s birthday celebration.
Part of the appeal of this downtown Hilo establishment is its historic look, which includes a stunning, geometrically designed ceiling and a wide-open gallery.
One thing the theater lacks, however, is air-conditioning. To address this need, the theatre board and Morgen are undertaking a campaign to raise funds both for air conditioning units and solar panels. The solar panels are needed to offset the expected additional electricity costs resulting from the air conditioning.
The fundraising campaign started in September and has already met with some success. Morgen and her team are looking for more support in order to make their dream a reality.
“This is a huge undertaking for which we need the support of the entire community,” she says.
Anyone wishing to donate to the “Theater Comfort Campaign” may contact the Palace Theater.
38 Haili Street, Hilo
808.934.7010
