Te Vaka, which was recently selected by Disney to compose songs for its upcoming movie “Moana,” will perform Thursday at Kahilu Theatre in Waimea.
Led by award-winning singer-songwriter Opetaia Foai, Te Vaka’s infectious melodies, Polynesian drums, and world beat rhythms draw on its roots in the cultures of Tokelau, Samoa, Cook Islands, and New Zealand Maori, as well as today’s funk, pop, and rock sensibilities. Thursday’s show gets underway at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $20.
On Aug. 14, Disney announced at its sold-out fan expo D23 that Foai would be composing the songs for the new Disney animated feature “Moana,” scheduled for release in November 2016. The musical team includes Tony Award-winner Lin-Manuel Miranda and Grammy Award-winning composer Mark Mancina, who was featured in “Tarzan” and “The Lion King.” Te Vaka started recording songs for the soundtrack in August.
With Foai on vocals and lead guitar, using open tunings often associated with slack key techniques, the band brings its lively energy to a mix of traditional and modern instruments, from log drums to electric guitar, bass, and keyboards. The beauty of the rich vocal harmonies, dancing that evokes Pacific traditions, and the poetry of lyrics in Tokelauan and Samoan languages belie the serious intent of many of the songs, which address current issues in the Pacific including climate change, family and cultural displacement, the tolls of the tsunami in Samoa, and drug culture among indigenous youth, as well as lighter fare. Yet, the band delivers up a rocking, joyful evening as the multitalented musicians and singers double as dancers and chanters.
Te Vaka, which means “The Canoe,” has performed in 38 countries, and has released seven albums and one live performance DVD to date. They have received numerous awards, including Best Polynesian Music Award at the 2011 Hawaii Music Awards, Best Pacific Group twice at the Pacific Music Awards, as well as awards for Best Pacific Language Song for their newest CD Haoloto (2010) and Best Pacific Album for Tutuki (2008). The group is currently working on its eight release.
The Hawaii tour is sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines. The group is due to embark on its first major tour in the U.S. since 2011.
The performance at Kahilu Theatre is made possible by sponsorship from Clive and Carol Davies, Nancy and Bob Male, The Dolores Furtado Foundation, and Western Arts Federation.
Tickets are $68/$58/$47/$20 and can be purchased online at www.kahilutheatre.org, by calling 885-6868, or at the Kahilu Theatre Box Office between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
