MASTERS OF THE CURRENTS Receives World Premiere at HTY

Honolulu Theatre for Youth and TeAda Productions are mounting the world premiere of Masters of the Currents a theatrical journey into the reality of life as a young Micronesian immigrant in the Aloha State. Led by TeAda creative duo Leilani Chan and Ova Saopeng, the piece has been created through first hand interviews and community participation. Masters of the Currents shares the journey of young Micronesians and their conflict of identity as they struggle to be accepted by their new peers in Hawaii while still holding onto the rich cultural traditions of Micronesia. This transformative piece tackles the heartbreaking reality of the bullying that exists within our Aloha state and sets out to "change the tide of people's perception of the Micronesian community" says director Leilani Chan.

Recent newcomers from Micronesia have fled their island nations due to environmental and economic pressures. Masters of the Currents takes us from remote island nations to urban cities, from ocean water passageways to paved asphalt highways. "What can we learn from these descendants of the early Pacific ocean navigators and how can we extend aloha to the newest people arriving here in Hawaii?" asks Ova Saopeng.

Masters of the Currents opens Friday October 13 at 7:00pm with additional performances Saturday October 14 at 4:30pm and 7:00pm, and Saturday October 21 at 4:30pm.

Directed by Leilani Chan. Set Design Eric West, Projection Design Nathan Fitch, Sound Design Jonah Moananu. Lighting Design Chesley Cannon, Costume Design Cheri Vasek.

The cast represents members of the Micronesian community, featuring: Emerald Hadik from the island of Kosrae, Jayceleen Ifenuk andMikendon "Mike" Raed from Chuuk, as well as Innocenta Sound-Kikku the cultural navigator of Masters of the Currents and Ova Saopeng.

Masters of the Currents will be performed at Tenney Theatre on the grounds of The Cathedral of St. Andrew. It is ideal for ages 8 and up. Single tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for youth (18 and under) and $15 for seniors (over 60). For more information, to receive a season brochure, order tickets to a show or learn more about HTY's educational programming call 839-9885. Tickets may also be ordered online at www.htyweb.org.