Rhythm and Views

Jake Shimabukuro Launches Solo Sessions

July 11th, 2010 at 10:01pm skayian

The audience broke out in laughter as Jake Shimabukuro repeatedly bowed during a recent Maui concert. The ukulele virtuoso, a Honolulu native, was making the traditional Japanese gesture to punctuate a story about his 2009 performance in front of Her Majesty the Queen of England.

Shimabukuro was asked by Bette Midler, another Honolulu native, to perform the Beatles’ “In My Life” with her at the Royal Variety Performance in England. Without hesitation, he accepted, calling the opportunity an honor.

After the concert, which also featured Lady Gaga, Michael Buble and Miley Cyrus, the performers lined-up backstage to meet the Queen. Jake was standing between Midler and Lady Gaga — a trip of its own — as the Royal protocol instructions began.

“I was really nervous,” Shimabukuro said. “There were three rules that I had to remember. First, you’re not supposed to extend your hand until the Queen does. Second, you are not supposed to speak until the Queen speaks to you. Third, it is not necessary to bow or curtsy.”

When the Queen walked into the room, Shimabukuro’s Japanese instincts took over. He repeatedly bowed “fast and hard” as the others stood still. “I didn’t even realize I was doing it until I saw the videotape afterwards,” he said.

Talking story — as we say in Hawaii — is a mainstay of Jake’s concerts. He brings the audience into his world, sharing his inspiration for original songs and flavoring covers (“Bohemian Rhapsody,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”) with amusing anecdotes.

Shimabukuro’s legendary ukulele style — coupled with his entertaining storytelling — made for a great show when R&V saw him perform in March at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center’s Castle Theater. It also seems like a perfect fit for “Solo Sessions,” a new up-close and personal concert series at the MACC’s intimate McCoy Studio Theater.

“I’m thrilled about the show’s concept – casual and relaxed – just like playing for my mom and dad when I was a little boy,” said the 2010 Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winner (Favorite Entertainer of the Year and Instrumental Album of the Year). “The McCoy has always been one of my favorite venues because it’s … intimate with a lot of class.”

“Solo Sessions with Jake Shimabukuro – Peace Love ‘Ukulele“ is scheduled for three dates: July 15, August 5 and October 7.

In addition to standard seating, the MACC is offering VIP tickets which include premium seats, early access to the theater for a sound check and a meet-and-greet with Jake. For more information, call the box office at (808) 242-SHOW (7469) or visit MauiArts.org.

Words by Suzanne Kayian

Photo by Joyce Chin Photography

Entry Filed under: Upcoming Event