‘Pohaku’ combines dances old and new

Christopher Morgan’s “Pohaku,” a dance theater piece bringing together storytelling, hula, modern dance, classical music and projection design, will be presented at 4 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Kahilu Theatre.

Choreographer Morgan danced hula as a child in California, far from his family’s native Hawaii. As Morgan developed a body of work in modern dance, described as “charming and poignant” by The New York Times, he longed to connect his Native Hawaiian artistic and personal roots to his contemporary work. “Pohaku” is the culmination of that artistic endeavor.

The Hawaiian word for stone, “Pohaku” is partly inspired by Morgan’s late cousin, kumu hula John Kaimikaua (1957-2006). This evening-length solo dance performed by Morgan features live music by kumu hula Elsie Kaleihulukea Ryder of Kaimikaua’s Halau Hula o Kukunaokala, and classically trained electric cellist Wytold. Collaborators also include projection designer Sareen Hairabedian, scenery by kapa maker Dalani Tanahy, lighting and technical direction by Brian S. Allard, and rehearsal direction by Tiffanie Carson.

Tickets for “Pohaku” are $68, $48, $38 and $20 and available for purchase online at www.kahilutheatre.org, by calling 885-6868 or from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Kahilu Theatre box office, 67-1186 Lindsey Road in Waimea.