Polynesia, a region in the Pacific Ocean, holds a remarkable allure and fascination for people all over the world. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant traditions, Polynesia is a captivating destination. One of the most enchanting aspects of Polynesia is its magical folklore and ancient practices that continue to thrive. Polynesian culture revolves around a deep connection with nature and the spiritual world. For the Polynesians, the concept of mana, a supernatural power, permeates every aspect of their lives. It is believed that the gods themselves imparted mana to certain individuals, granting them extraordinary powers.
It is believed that the gods themselves imparted mana to certain individuals, granting them extraordinary powers. These individuals, known as mana holders or practitioners, are revered in Polynesian society for their ability to harness this magical energy. The magic of Polynesia is often brought to life through captivating performances and ceremonies.
Magic of Polynesia
There’s nothing really magical about John Hirokawa’s rise to the top of Hawaii’s entertainment scene. His success is no illusion, either. It’s all a product of the Wahiawa-born showman’s lifelong passion for making the impossible possible—right before our very eyes.
Get a sneak peek of the Magic of Polynesia by emediaMitchellHistory
Hirokawa, who stars in the award-winning Magic of Polynesia dinner show at the Waikiki Beachcomber, started doing magic at an early age. “My mom and I would go to the library and borrow magic books,” he recalled in an interview with ALOHA Magazine. “She would read the instructions and teach me the tricks.”
At the age of eight, Hirokawa began taking magic lessons at the now-defunct Magic & Novelty Center in Honolulu. Before long, he found himself working with an illusionist who’s now known across the world: David Copperfield. At the time (the mid-1970s), Copperfield was performing at the Pagoda Hotel, and Hirokawa became his warm-up act.
“By working beside him and learning, I had no choice but to become a professional magician at an early age,” said Hirokawa.
By the time he was 16, Hirokawa was established enough to earn numerous accolades, including winning the junior division of the prestigious Federation International des Societes Magiques in Belgium.
Today
Today, Magic of Polynesia is a mesmerizing showcase for Hirokawa’s wizardry. Equal parts magic, Hawaiiana, humor and downright fun, the show includes hula and chant performances as well as Hirokawa’s world-class illusions. Audiences gasp in awe as the gifted showman makes objects (and people) vanish and reappear. His escape artist feats are nothing short of spectacular.
As a Honolulu Star-Bulletin critic put it, “Hirokawa delivers a first-class show. Handsome, trim and buff enough to go shirtless at one point in the show, he is an appealing and engaging star who proves himself an entertainer as well as a master illusionist.”
In 2004, Hirokawa received the prestigious International Magicians Society Merlin Award for the “Most Original” magic show.
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We found seats close to the exit, stage right, and a server handed us the cocktail menu. Typical drink list in Waikīkī: Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages and tropical frou frou. My daughter – who adores live theater – ignored the menu and looked around the room in amazement at the colored gels over the lights; faux foliage and volcanic craters along the walls; fancy curtains over the stage; the glow of a Mac laptop where the crew controlled lights and sound.
Traditional dances, such as the hula in Hawaii or the Siva Samoa in Samoa, are exquisite displays of grace and artistry. These dances, accompanied by rhythmic music and chants, are not just entertainment but a way to communicate with the gods and seek divine blessings. Another aspect of the magic of Polynesia is its connection with the natural elements. The Polynesians have a deep appreciation for the land, the sea, and the sky, believing that they are all interconnected. Ancient rituals and ceremonies are conducted to honor and seek the protection of these elements. For example, the Maori people in New Zealand perform a haka, a ceremonial dance, to invoke the power of their ancestors and intimidate their enemies. Polynesia's magic is also reflected in its traditional arts and crafts. Intricate designs and motifs are woven into tapa, a form of cloth made from the bark of mulberry trees. Tattoos, known as tatau, are not only a form of body art but also a spiritual practice. The patterns and symbols used in these traditional arts often have deep meanings, connecting the physical and spiritual worlds. Today, Polynesia's magic continues to thrive and inspire. The region has become a popular tourist destination, with visitors eager to experience its enchanting traditions. Whether it is watching a mesmerizing fire dance or participating in a traditional ceremony, the magic of Polynesia leaves a lasting impression on all those who encounter it. It is a testament to the resilience and richness of Polynesian culture, ensuring that its magic will continue to captivate and fascinate for generations to come..
Reviews for "Polynesian Magic: Preserving and Reviving Traditional Arts"
1. Jennifer - 1 star
I was so disappointed with "Magic of Polynesia". The whole show felt lackluster and unimpressive. The tricks were predictable and the illusions were nothing special. I felt like I was watching a low-budget magic show at a local fair rather than a professional production. The performers lacked charisma and their delivery was uninspiring. Overall, I would not recommend wasting your time or money on this underwhelming show.
2. Robert - 2 stars
"Magic of Polynesia" was just okay. The magic tricks were somewhat entertaining but there was nothing unique or mind-blowing about them. The show also had a strange pacing, with some acts dragging on for too long while others felt rushed. The dancing and singing segments were average at best and felt like filler. I expected more from a show with such a strong Polynesian theme, but it failed to deliver anything truly memorable. It was an average magic show at best, and I wouldn't go out of my way to see it again.
3. Lisa - 2 stars
I found "Magic of Polynesia" to be quite underwhelming. The illusions were cliché and lacked originality. The performers seemed disinterested and there was a lack of energy throughout the show. The set design and costumes were also quite outdated. I was hoping for a vibrant and engaging Polynesian experience, but instead, I got a dull and forgettable evening. Save your money and find a better magic show elsewhere.