Aerial Arts Hawaii will present “Aquatica” at 7 p.m. this Friday at the Palace Theater in downtown Hilo.
The ocean-themed, aerial burlesque cabaret will light up the stage with 11 high-flying acts, and maybe even a mermaid or two.
“It’s a water — and air — inspired burlesque show where all of our artists in the collective are interpreting the theme differently,” said director and Aerial Arts Hawaii co-owner Zoe Eisenberg. “We have a water goddess, artists channeling fish and whales, and acts that emulate classic circus shows.”
The show originally was performed at the Aerial Arts Hawaii studio, the Airhouse, in Hilo.
“My partner, Bella O’Toole, and I were doing stage productions before we had a studio, so we’re used to this. It’s just like directing a regular stage show, except literally elevated,” Eisenberg said. “The studio provides a more intimate space, so it’ll be exciting to perform for 500 people at the Palace.”
“Aquatica” features sensual self-expression from members of the AAH Collective and is appropriate for those 18 and older.
“It’s a burlesque, which is inherently all about sensual self-expression, body positivity, and will show some skin,” Eisenberg said. “There is no nudity, but we just want audiences to be prepared. Some shows are more family-friendly, but this one is for more mature audiences.”
O’Toole and Eisenberg have been teaching aerial arts for years but acquired the studio in 2021.
“It’s interesting to see aerial arts grow on the island since I moved 11 years ago. We started small in Kalapana and now we’re here in Hilo and reach so many more people,” Eisenberg said. “In addition to shows and the studio, we’re also doing private events now for amazing brands like Benefit Cosmetics and Red Bull. It’s something we never would have expected five years ago.”
“Aquatica” is the fifth aerial arts show produced at the Palace, and tickets are available for $25 for general admission and $45 for priority seating online at hilopalace.com. All tickets are $5 more on the day of show.
The studio regularly hosts weekly classes for several types of aerial arts for every level of experience. The next classes will start in January. For details, visit aerialartshawaii.com.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.