Gotta have that funk: UH-Hilo Jazz Orchestra to change tempo

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The University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center swings to soulful dance tunes when the UH-Hilo Jazz Orchestra presents Funk It Up! at 7:30 p.m. May 7.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center swings to soulful dance tunes when the UH-Hilo Jazz Orchestra presents Funk It Up! at 7:30 p.m. May 7.

On the heels of December’s sold out Frank Zappa tribute concert, the 25-piece ensemble has focused its attention on the funk genre popularized by artists such as George Clinton, Sly Stone and Tower of Power. Joining the UH-Hilo Jazz Orchestra will be special guest vocalists and dancers performing original choreography by Dori Yamada.

“Funk music is basically soul music, but with an emphasis on rhythm,” said orchestra director Trever Veilleux. “It is dance music that makes you feel good and makes you want to move. The musicians, singers and dancers have done an amazing job putting this show together and I can’t wait for people to see it!”

Tickets cost $7 general admission and $5 discount for students with valid ID and children 17 and younger.

Tickets can be purchased at the Performing Arts Center box office 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday on school days, or by calling 932-7490. Tickets also can be ordered online by visiting artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu.