The auditorium is gorgeous. It's a work of art lovingly restored to a level of beaux arts opulence that would satisfy even Louis XVI or Rasputin. There's no question about it, we're lucky this historic treasure was saved.
Glitz and history aside, the theater is a magnificent performance space. When the Cazimeros ended their Friday night concert by walking out through the audience Brother Roland could be heard clearly from across the theater. Excellent acoustics enhanced Michael Feinstein's weekend-capping Saturday performance as well.
Larger productions have been equally impressive. Aaron Mahi and the Royal Hawaiian Band were joined by organist John McCreary and the Hawaii Opera Theatre Chorus for the finale at the dedication ceremonies. The Chorus sang in the balcony, McCreary played the theater organ and the effect was stunning. What a place it would be to stage a performance of Handel's "Messiah!"
The theater also proved first rate for contemporary amplified music last Thursday when the University of Hawaii-Manoa College of Continuing Education presented the Kenny Endo Taiko Ensemble, Chris Planas & Third Degree, and Cabaseke. The sound was crystal clear and undistorted; the sound levels were comfortable throughout. What a place for jazz or blues!
Feinstein's performance was another delight. Just a man and his piano - the sound clean, clear and perfectly balanced. What a setting for the 1997 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards!
(Note: The acoustics are so perfect crying infants are more irksome than usual.)
The orchestra pit's hydraulic lifts were used to good dramatic effect by Endo's ensemble. The Cazimeros used it as well.
Sight lines are generally good. Seats farthest from the stage (NN309 and NN310) actually have a better view than some of the orchestra seating. The one flaw is the annoying red glare of nearby EXIT signs.
A few tips on seating: Orchestra Center has the straight-on view, but many of the Loges are closer and straight on as well. Seats in the raised "parterre" sections downstairs offer better viewing as well. Avoid single letter Orchestra Left and Right seating where the floor isn't angled enough to prevent large people from blocking views. The ultra-prestigious boxes gave the most limited sight lines of all.
People who don't climb stairs easily should note that it's about 30 steps up to the mezzanine and 25 more to the upper balcony. Several ground-level spaces are reserved for wheelchairs; others are available by prior request.
Amid the beaux arts vs. art deco controversy, one thing is clear: ripping out the much-loved art deco marquee before funds were in hand to replace it leaves patrons with no sidewalk shelter. The marquee will be sorely missed the first time there's a heavy rain.
The interior may likewise prove cramped if a downpour prevents use of the adjoining public park during intermissions. Improvements in the air conditioning should rank high on the "things to do" list; the auditorium was noticeably warm when filled to capacity Saturday.