Akakū Upstairs kicks off 2025 with the film screening of award winning film, My Partner, directed by Kanaka Maoli filmmaker Keliʻi Grace and based on an original story by Lance D. Collins, explores the relationship between Edmar, a high-achieving Filipino student, and Pili, a Native Hawaiian student-athlete. As they navigate teenage love and self-growth in Hawaiʻi, their journey reflects the complexities of Hawaiʻi’s evolving cultural landscape. This marks the first time the Boy Love genre has been portrayed through a modern Hawaiian story, offering a unique take on love and identity in Hawaiʻi cinema. Salon includes full film screening.
The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the Director Keli’i Grace and writer Lance D. Collins.
Register here for free to secure your spot. Seating is limited! Doors open at 5:30pm and the salon starts promptly at 6pm, full film screening and Q&A til 8:30pm.
Offered on the third Thursday of each month at Akakū’s Media Lab, Akakū Upstairs is a community outreach program designed to bring Maui Nui together in person to share, learn, and be inspired by local stories, elevating community and conversation. Watch the Akakū Upstairs Playlist on demand on our free MauiStream app to catch up on past salons.
You can make sure the Akakū Upstairs salon series continues to thrive, and provide great exposure for you or your business, by making a tax-deductible donation to Akakū or by becoming an underwriter. Just reach out to development@akaku.org for details.
Thursday, January 16, 2025. Doors open at 5:30, special event timing is 6pm-8:30pm.
Akakū Upstairs admission is free. Limited seating.
To Reserve a seat: Register Here
