LIHU‘E — “Savior in Search of a Modern Dream,” an original play by Jill “Kimie” Sadoyama, comes to the Kaua‘i Community College Performing Arts Center Saturday. The one-night-only performance begins at 7 p.m. and benefits local, community nonprofit organizations, including
LIHU‘E — “Savior in Search of a Modern Dream,” an original play by Jill “Kimie” Sadoyama, comes to the Kaua‘i Community College Performing Arts Center Saturday.
The one-night-only performance begins at 7 p.m. and benefits local, community nonprofit organizations, including The Children of the Land, Hale Kipa, Love the Journey and the Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank.
Born and raised on Kaua‘i and a graduate of Kapa‘a High School, Sadoyama is both a poet and visual artist. On Saturday, she will bring her story to life with the help of musicians, dancers and local performers.
“Savior in Search of a Modern Dream” is a three-part performance following Sadoyama’s journey from Kaua‘i to Portland, Ore., and back, detailing the striking contrasts between the two places.
“It’s about the Kaua‘i of my past … my going to Portland and coming back,” Sadoyama said. “It’s a moving journey, a saga.”
“The rich tapestry of poetry and prose begins with voices from the land and people of Kaua‘i,” states a news release. “Scenes depicting Kaua‘i’s abundant culture and history include a heartwarming story of plantation fieldworkers, a majestic salute to Mount Wai‘ale‘ale, memories of Hurricane ‘Iniki and a moving tribute to a Japanese grandma.”
Scenes featuring the city of Portland offer reflections from Sadoyama’s experiences after she attended school at Pacific University.
“This original production is a literary treasure with Kaua‘i at the center,” the release states. “Human resiliency entwined with the power of nature and redemption are powerful themes of the play. It is certain to move the audience from the familiar to the strange, and the profoundly meaningful.”
“You can see how my writings are performance pieces,” Sadoyama said. “And they’re also very true to Kaua‘i.”
The two-hour performance will feature dancing by Yemaya Duby, Renee Janton on flute, Jeannie Ruman on harp, Isa Marie on drums and other surprise guest artist. It is staged and directed by Sheri Majewski and produced in association with the YWCA and the Office of the Mayor.
Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, and can be purchased at Papaya’s Natural Foods and Kaua‘i Music and Sound in Kapa‘a, Vim n’ Vigor in Lihu‘e and Scotty’s Music in Kalaheo. Student tickets are available for $10. Food donations will be accepted at the door.
For more information call Jill Sadoyama at 821-1709 or the KCC Box Office at 245-8352.
