The theater department is  performing Androcles and the Lion, an energetic and fun musical this weekend and next. It’s upbeat and entertaining from beginning to end.

The show starts out with a helpful and sweet slave, Androcles (junior Maverick Akana). Androcles is owned by a greedy man, Pantalone (junior Tehoni Naeole), who cares about nothing else than his own money.

Then there is the conceited Captain, played by junior Cullen Mitchell, who acts tough but is secretly a coward. The Lion (senior Taytum Herrick).

Last, there are the two lovers, Isabella & Lelio, who are played by sophomore Taylor Watanabe and junior Jaimelee Felipe, who wish to be wed one day. Throughout the performance, Androcles is being chased by the Captain and Pantalone for a crime that he didn’t commit, but he comes across an unexpected surprise.

The costumes, which portray a modern world look in Rome, are on loan from the Maui Academy of Performing Arts. The props and the set were all made by the Drama Club. The large amount of time spent building the set, paid off–it’s magnificent and adds a lot to the performance.

This musical play was directed and choreographed by KS Maui teacher Ms. Camille Romero. Through her talents, she was able to get all the actors in the play to really embody their characters and know exactly what they are supposed to do.

The choreography was simple, yet intriguing. It had just the right amount of diversity and kept the audience mesmerized.

Watching this play is a memorable experience. You can’t help but smile at every moment in the play.

The play officially opens tonight at 7 p.m., with upcoming shows at the same time tomorrow and next Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27 and 28 and Nov. 3 and 4.  On the two Saturdays, there is also a matinee at 2 p.m.

Come down to Keōpūolani Hale and watch this amazing performance. Admission is free.

Gallery • 8 Photos

Photo by Analicia Kapua

The Lion (Taytum Herrick) lectures the Captain (Cullen Mitchell) and Pantalone (Tehoni Naeole).