Cynthia Cyrus, Volunteer

Prince Lot 2017 looks to be the beginning of a new era for the festival. The new venue at Iolani Palace brought a sense of newness to the event as it celebrated 40 years of existence.   The presentation of awards to some of the most deserving individuals in the history of hula and the Foundation was inspirational. But it was Sunday morning’s program that completely took everything to a new level. In the 30+ years that I have attended, I have never been so overcome with awe and praise for what I witnessed. All performances were completely over the top. It was the best of the best. Each halau brought their A game and took that soaring to a higher level like never before. So much love, pride, professionalism was exhibited by each halau. I was overcome with emotion. Other spectators around me were also amazed. I am so grateful to have witnessed something so spectacular, and it is my greatest wish that this will set the tone of excellence for all future Prince Lot Festivals. It made me a million times happier to be a member of MGF and made me wish I could be closer than 2500 miles away so I could be even more involved in this organization and event. My most heartfelt thanks go to everyone at MGF and I look forward to continuing my annual trek to Honolulu to help and support MGF. My life is richer for what I have experienced and been able to do.

Very sincerely.

Kumu Hula Kamana`o Manoʻi-Hyde, Hālau Māpuna Leo

Just wanted to say mahalo nui for giving us the opportunity to share our hula at the 40th anniversary of the Prince Lot hula festival.  We were humbled and grateful for the experience.  Again mahalo a nui.

‘O au no me ka haʻahaʻa.

Leimomi I Maldonado & Imaikalani I, Nā Kumu Hula, Ka Hāle I o Kāhala Hālau Hula

Congratulations on another successful event.  Mahalo for all the Love & Aloha you share with all of us Hula People.  Brother Tuni and I would like to say Mahalo Nui Loa for everything.

Lilinoe Lindsey, Kumu Hula, Kā Pa Nani ‘O Lilinoe

Mahalo for inviting us to perform at the Prince Lot Festival at ‘Iolani Palace. It was such an honor to perform at a most sacred place.
Overall, we loved being at the ‘Iolani Palace. We would love to return to Prince Lot next year.  Staff was friendly and professional as usual. 

Mahalo nui.

Michael Canopin, Kumu Hula, Hālau Kealakapawa

This past weekend at the Prince Lot Hula Festival was an awesome experience for both groups of our hālau dancers and myself.  It was literally my first time ever performance at ʻIolani Palace. Such an honor! 

E mālama pono.