Source: Maui Time, Maui News, Best of Maui, Maui Activities

Picks%20of%20the%20Week

by Kate Bradshaw

July 30, 2009

Desert queen in paradise

Saturday (Aug. 1), 2-8pm, Sugarman Estate, Makena

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: everyone loves a big gay dance party, especially people who say they don’t. Both Sides, Now, which is probably Maui’s only formal LGBT organization (they get extra points for naming themselves after a Joni Mitchell song), is putting on its annual Priscilla Party this weekend, which benefits Maui AIDS Foundation. Obviously it’s not just a party for members of the Valley Isle’s LGBT community; food, music and entertainment make for a good time for all. Guests can catch a shuttle to Sugarman Estate from the south end of the Shops at Wailea (near the Rolex store). Vintage military apparel is highly encouraged, so bust out your pinup outfit or sailor suit and dance away the afternoon. $25 at both-sides-now.org/$35 at the door.

Making is believing

Saturday (Aug. 1), 9pm, Timba, Lahaina

I am the Charleton Heston of mojitos. If anyone dares tell me how “so 2005” the refreshing beverage is, I will defend it to the death. Of course, a mojito is only enjoyable if it’s actually a mojito and not made from a syrupy mix. There are not many places on-island to get a decent mojito unless you’re able to procure your own fresh mint leaves and bring them to the bar yourself, which may involve sneaking onto private property and potentially being shot or bitten by a pit bull. Trust me. One place that does have a mean mojito is Timba, Lahaina’s newest nightlife addition. This week’s A Makebelieve Clothing Company shindig/rager/box social is a most excellent—and completely legal—opportunity to try the Cuban-born concoction while checking out local clothing purveyor’s latest designs. Danceable house music will be provided by Suck my Beat and Love House. Oh, and expect complimentary sushi and a fashion show around midnight.

Rock and/or roll

Sunday (Aug. 2), 7pm, Lahaina Civic Center

Every other Sunday, Fuzzbox Productions puts on a most superior—and most free—movie screening. These are all-ages popcorn potluck events that usually incorporate a theme of some sort. This week it’s “rock stars.” This is honorable, considering how the essence of rock and roll as well as the rebellion and spirit that accompany it have been overshadowed by its own image. Like Twitter, our culture has gotten caught up in the manner in which rock and roll is delivered rather than the substance of its message. (Just sayin’.) Fuzzbox is featuring films that center on rock and roll, including titles like School of Rock, a Jack Black film to which I have yet to apply any degree of academic scrutiny. This is kind of a family deal, but Fuzzbox also puts on events geared toward those of us in our 20s who’ve yet to procreate. Most, for some reason, involve bacon. In any case, keep an eye out if you’re looking for something different. 

Illusions, Michael. Illusions.

Thursday (Aug. 6), 6pm, Iao Theater, Wailuku

When writing one of This Week’s Picks on an upcoming magic show, one might consider incorporating Harry Potter, who apparently has a new movie out, into the writeup. This would be a mistake. Yes, although our society is guided by the Principle of Overkill, no decent writer should stoop to the most accessible device just to save time and garner readership. It’s quality not quantity, my friends. (Oh, and I don’t like Harry Potter.) Those interested in viewing one of magic’s other pop culture vestiges can check out a live magic show this week. Headlining is Dr. Scandia (I am not sure of the discipline in which he earned his PhD), whose claim to fame is the ability to predict headlines. He will attempt to do so with this very paper. A week prior to the show he will write down his prediction for Maui Time’s cover story and open up the envelope at the Aug. 6 show. Plus, he plans on performing hypnosis on audience members who volunteer. Magician (illusionist?) Kolina will also give a special performance. An American Veterans Association benefit. $10/$12 door.