01/10/2026
A statement to our concerned Maui community ohana from Maui OnStage’s Executive Director - Luana Whitford-Mitchell
Concern over the event happening at the Historic Iao Theater tomorrow (Sat, Jan 10th) has been expressed, so I wanted to assure our community that this is a “rental event” and not a Maui OnStage production/event.
With all rental events at the Historic Iao Theater, the views, ideas, and opinions expressed are those of the event organizers and presenters and do not reflect those of Maui OnStage,
its board of directors or staff.
Over the years, as part of our efforts to make the Historic Iao Theater available and accessible to all, Maui OnStage has rented the theater as a venue to many community organizations. Sometimes we receive negative comments or feedback or even backlash.
These organizations include burlesque shows, drag shows, male dancer shows, movie screenings, hula halau's, church services and more.
Even though I personally and many others in the community have no problem with a drag show, a hula halau performance or church services... unfortunately there are those in the community who DO and I've heard from them.
I write them back as open and honest as I am writing to you.
I sincerely apologize for the distress this has caused our treasured theater community. Please know that was definitely not my nor the theater's intention.
I thank each and everyone of you and appreciate your support
of the theater community here on Maui.
Please let me know if I can answer any further questions. I am more than happy to. You can always email me at [email protected].
Mahalo,
Luana Whitford-Mitchell
