LCC Theater: A Little Known Entertainment Gem in Honolulu

Most of Honolulu's (Oahu) theater shows are situated in the core of the city in venues like Manoa Valley Theater (near the University of Hawaii), Diamond Head Theater (near Waikiki), Kumu Kahua Theater (in downtown Honolulu) and the Army Theater (at Fort Shafter). Not as well known to residents and visitors is another entertainment venue that is a bit removed from Honolulu urbandom: the Leeward Community College Theater.

Built in 1974 and hosting over 2 million patrons since its debut, LCC's theater has a seating capacity of 575. Over the years, the Theater has featured an array of artists and performers such as Ramsey Lewis, Eddie Kamae and the Sons of Hawaii, Ohta San, the Korean National Dance Company, the Kodiak Russian Dancers, the Peking Acrobats, and Frank Delima.

The Theater is located on the east (Diamond Head) end of the Leeward Community College campus. To drive there from downtown Honolulu, head westbound on the H-1 freeway. Take the Pearl City offramp and follow the "Leeward Community College" signs that will lead you to the campus and to the parking lot (ample free parking available) for the theater. If you want more detailed directions, go here.

Upcoming events for the 2007-2008 season include the following:

==December 2007==

The Nutcracker, the Christmas classic, features dancers from the Hawaii Ballet Theater. Show dates are Saturday, December 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. And Sunday Dec. 9 and 16 at 4 p.m. Tickets are available only through the HBT. For tickets or info, call 808-456-8100, or email HBTnut@hawaii.rr.com.

==January 2008==

Doug Varone and Dancers, features local artists including Eddie Taketa and music by acclaimed local musician Jake Shimabukuro. One show only on Saturday Jan. 19. 8 p.m. Tickets are $23 for adults and $19 for students, seniors, and military personnel. Open seating (i.e. first come, first served).

==February 2008==

Paul Zaloom-Mother of All Enemies, features Paul Zaloom, who uses shadow puppetry to poke fun at social issues. One show only on Friday, Feb 1. 8 p.m. Tickets are $23 for adults and $19 for students, seniors, and military personnel. Open seating.

Altan-a five-member group that performs traditional Irish music. One show only on Sunday Feb 24. 7 p.m. Tickets are $23 for adults and $19 for students, seniors, and military personnel. Open seating.

==March 2008==

Kahekili-a drama about a famous ancient Hawaiian warrior, featuring four hula (Hawaiian dance) troupes from the island of Maui. One show only on Saturday March 15. 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $21 for students, seniors, and military personnel. Reserved seating.

==April 2008==

LCC Guitar Concert, features Peter Kun Frary and Leeward Community College music students. Sunday, April 20. 4 p.m. Tickets are $5. Open seating.

LCC Dance Festival, features local dance schools and LCC students. Friday April 25 and Saturday April 26, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students, seniors, and military. Open seating.

Sweet Honey in the Rock, features a Grammy award winning gospel and spiritual singing group. Sunday, April 27, 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $21 for students, seniors, and military. Open seating.

For more information about the theater and for updates on show dates beyond 2007-2008, see the theater's website.