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Food and Wine
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Food and Wine
Source : (remove) : KHON Honolulu
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Maui Calls gala event with ono food, wine and music

Maui Calls Gala: A Night of Culture, Cuisine, and Community Support

In the heart of Hawaii's picturesque island of Maui, the annual Maui Calls gala event once again transformed the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) into a vibrant celebration of local culture, artistry, and philanthropy. This year's iteration, held under the theme "Ono Grindz" – a playful nod to Hawaii's delectable culinary traditions where "ono" means delicious – drew hundreds of attendees eager to support the arts while indulging in an evening of sensory delights. The event, which has become a cornerstone of Maui's social calendar, not only raises crucial funds for the MACC but also highlights the island's rich heritage through food, music, and visual arts.

The gala kicked off with a sunset cocktail reception on the MACC's sprawling outdoor grounds, where guests mingled amid tropical breezes and stunning views of the West Maui Mountains. Attendees, dressed in elegant aloha attire – think flowing muumuus and vibrant Hawaiian shirts – were greeted with lei greetings and refreshing mai tais infused with local flavors like passionfruit and pineapple. This year's theme emphasized "ono grindz," focusing on Hawaii's farm-to-table ethos and the fusion of traditional island cuisine with modern twists. Chefs from across Maui collaborated to create a multi-course feast that showcased the bounty of the land and sea.

At the helm of the culinary experience was a lineup of renowned local chefs, each contributing signature dishes that paid homage to Hawaii's diverse cultural influences. For instance, one highlight was a poke bar featuring fresh ahi tuna caught that morning, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and limu seaweed, representing the Native Hawaiian fishing traditions. Another station offered kalua pork sliders, slow-roasted in an imu (underground oven) for that authentic smoky flavor, paired with poi made from taro grown in the fertile valleys of Hana. Vegetarian options abounded too, with innovative takes like grilled eggplant with miso glaze and ulu (breadfruit) fritters, underscoring the event's commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

Beyond the food, the evening's entertainment wove a tapestry of Maui's artistic soul. Live performances ranged from hula dancers interpreting ancient mele (songs) to contemporary slack-key guitarists whose melodies evoked the island's serene landscapes. A special appearance by a ukulele virtuoso added a layer of intimacy, with guests encouraged to join in sing-alongs of classic Hawaiian tunes like "Aloha 'Oe." Visual arts were not overlooked; the MACC's galleries featured pop-up exhibits of works by local artists, including intricate wood carvings, vibrant paintings inspired by Maui's volcanic terrain, and textile pieces incorporating traditional kapa cloth techniques. One particularly moving installation was a collaborative mural created by youth from the MACC's educational programs, symbolizing the center's role in nurturing the next generation of island creatives.

The philanthropic heart of Maui Calls shone through in the live auction, a high-energy segment that saw bidders vying for unique experiences and items donated by local businesses and celebrities. Standout lots included a private helicopter tour over Haleakalā Crater at sunrise, a week-long stay in a luxury oceanfront villa in Wailea, and original artwork by Maui-based painters. One of the most coveted items was a custom surfboard hand-shaped by a legendary shaper, complete with lessons from a pro surfer. Proceeds from the auction, along with ticket sales and sponsorships, are directed toward the MACC's mission to provide accessible arts education, community programming, and world-class performances. Organizers noted that funds raised help support free events like outdoor concerts and workshops that reach underserved communities, ensuring that the arts remain a vital part of Maui's identity.

This year's gala also addressed timely themes, such as resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Speakers touched on Maui's recovery from recent wildfires, emphasizing how the arts have played a role in healing and rebuilding community spirit. A poignant moment came during a tribute to local heroes – firefighters, volunteers, and artists who contributed to relief efforts – reminding attendees of the island's unbreakable aloha spirit. The event's sustainability efforts were evident too: all food was sourced locally to minimize carbon footprint, compostable serveware was used, and a portion of proceeds supported reforestation initiatives in fire-affected areas.

As the night progressed, the atmosphere evolved into a lively party with dancing under the stars. A DJ spun a mix of Hawaiian reggae and contemporary island beats, encouraging guests to let loose on the dance floor. For many, the highlight was the dessert course, a veritable ono extravaganza featuring haupia (coconut pudding), liliko'i (passionfruit) cheesecake, and shaved ice with exotic syrups like guava and lychee. Conversations buzzed about the importance of preserving Hawaiian culture in an era of rapid tourism growth, with attendees sharing stories of how the MACC has impacted their lives – from children's theater classes to senior art therapy sessions.

Maui Calls has a storied history, evolving from a modest fundraiser in the 1990s to one of the island's premier events. It attracts a mix of residents, celebrities, and visitors, all united by a passion for the arts. This year's success is attributed to the tireless work of volunteers and sponsors, including major contributions from resorts like the Four Seasons and local farms. The gala not only generates revenue – with past events raising over a million dollars – but also fosters connections that strengthen Maui's cultural fabric.

In reflecting on the evening, participants left with full bellies, inspired hearts, and a renewed commitment to supporting the arts. As one attendee put it, "Maui Calls isn't just an event; it's a call to action – to celebrate, preserve, and give back to this special place we call home." With its blend of ono cuisine, captivating performances, and meaningful philanthropy, the gala continues to embody the essence of Maui: a paradise where culture thrives and community comes first.

Looking ahead, organizers are already planning for next year, hinting at themes that might explore Maui's oceanic heritage or its astronomical wonders, given the island's clear night skies. For those who missed out, the MACC offers year-round opportunities to engage, from gallery visits to virtual events. In a world where arts funding can be precarious, Maui Calls stands as a beacon of how creativity and generosity can sustain a community's soul. Whether through a bite of fresh poke or the strum of a ukulele, the event reminds us that in Maui, ono experiences are about more than just taste – they're about connection, tradition, and the enduring power of aloha. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full KHON Honolulu Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/maui-calls-gala-event-ono-220606386.html ]