HUOA is very privileged to have the generosity of countless numbers of traditional and contemporary artists and regional folk performers who have impressed our Festival year after year. 2011is no exception. Featured artists from Okinawa this year include:

MAMORU MIYAGI

Saturday, September 3 at 4:00 pm

One of Okinawa's most refined and talented shimauta singers, he will grace the stage for his fourth appearance as well. His lyrics are heartwarming and full of beauty and appreciation for his island home and his performance of traditional renditions are lively and uplifting.

YOKO HIZUKI

Saturday, September 3 at 4:30 pm

Born in Kobe, Ms. Hizuki joined Mamoru Miyagi’s studio in 2008. Prior to falling in love with Okinawa, Hizuki performed with other bands in Japan and been a regular host of the Hai Sai Kobe weekly show on Radio Kansai.

LEINANI HULA GROUP

Sunday, September 3 at 2:30 PM

The last time our audience enjoyed Leinani Hula Group was back in 2007 at the 25th Okinawan Festival. A contingent of Okinawan dancers who have learned the art of hula, they will share their talent with you on Saturday.

KYOKO TOMA MINYOU FAMILY GROUP

Sunday, September 4 at 3:00 PM

On Sunday, September 4 from 3:00 pm, two groups will perform for the first time in Hawaii. Kyoko Toma Family Minyou Group, a family uta-sanshin group lead by Kyoko Toma on Sanshin, her daughter Sumika Miyagi on taiko, her granddaughters Madoka Miyagi, age 10 and Shieru Miyagi, age 6, on Sanshin. This delightful group performs at various festivals and events in Okinawa. Closing out the segment, enjoy minbu dance by Yuino Buyo Group, led by Kiyoshi Miyagi. Minbu style of dance is unique in that it combines minyou folk style with classical buyo style of dance.