**Testimony in Support of Continued Funding for the Iao Theater Roof Maintenance**
Aloha Members of the Maui County Council,
I’m writing in strong support of continued funding for the maintenance and preservation of the historic Iao Theater, with specific attention to the much-needed roof repairs.
The Iao Theater is not just a building—it is a cultural treasure and a cornerstone of our community. For decades, it has been a gathering place for residents and visitors alike, offering a stage for local talent and a platform for meaningful storytelling.
Perhaps most importantly, the Iao Theater is home to the *Maui Onstage* youth program, which provides a safe, creative space for young people to learn, grow, and express themselves. The impact of this program on our youth cannot be overstated—it builds confidence, fosters teamwork, and nurtures a lifelong love of the arts.
Preserving the Iao Theater ensures that we are protecting both a historic landmark and an active hub of community connection. It is a vital investment not only in our past, but in our future.
As the mother of a Maui Onstage youth member for the past few years, I am writing in support of the roof repairs for the Historic Iao Theater.
My daughter along with her peers are privileged to have been provided the opportunity to perform in such a historically rich and respected building.
Failure by the County of Maui to approve funding for the roof repair would be a disservice to its keiki and community that it is called to provide and protect.
As a teen actor The Iao Theater has become my home. It is where I found myself, made long lasting connections, and when I am happiest. Theater is who I am and not all schools have the chance of theater so we turn to the amazing Iao Theater. I know I am not the only student who feels this way. The Iao Theater is where we feel safe, heard, accepted. Performing is our way to give back to the community. The Iao Theater has been a light in the darkest times. This theater has entertained Maui since 1928 and still has not lost any of its magic and is still inspiring people. It is an essential part to Maui. I can’t imagine a world without our Iao Theater.
Aloha,
I am writing in support of the necessary improvements needed to maintain the historic Iao Theatre. My daughter has performed here many times and has greatly benefited and developed from her incredible experiences. She has grown in her passions for performing, acting, and dancing as a result of access to utilize this vital community hub. It is imperative to pass this funding for our keiki and future generations to come. What price tag can you put on life-changing experiences? Please pass for the sake of the keiki and vibrant community of Maui.
Mahalo,
Andrew
I am in full support of this bill to repair the historic Iao Thetare. The theatre has given this community joy in times of sadness. Giving people of the island a place to go and gather to enjoy art. It provides a place of understanding for everyone from Keiki to Kapuna. It is a place where hawaiian culture and western culture can merge and entwine seamlessly. My family has benefited greatly from the enrichment our lives have garnered from the participation in events at the Theatre.
I am writing to express my support fro the proposed $1.2 million Capital Improvement Project allocation in the FY 2026 County budget for a new roof at the ʻĪao Theater.
The community and organizations around this historic landmark are an absolute asset to Maui County. My family and I have been honored to be part of Maui OnStage, as patrons, supporters and members. The theater serves as a gathering place for our entire island community, giving opportunity to forge new friendships and connections with neighbors we might only otherwise see in passing.
The building itself provides a unique opportunity to interact with the past. The look, feel and design of ‘Iao Theater is an important part of Wailuku and Maui as a whole. It is truly a special experience to be part of a living history, and ‘Iao Theater provides that in ways that can't always be expressed with words. Preserving, protecting and nurturing a place that has had such a powerful impact on people's lives across generations is one of the greatest endeavors our community can do.
I know my family is enriched from our interactions and experiences at ‘Iao Theater. I believe the rest of the Maui community is, too. Please fund the repairs needed for ‘Iao Theater.
I am writing to request your approval to repair the leaking roof of the historic I’ao Theater. This beloved community landmark has touched the lives of many, providing a space for children to nurture their creativity and gain confidence through programs like Maui on Stage.
As a parent, I have seen firsthand how my children have flourished through their participation in these programs, and the I’ao Theater has been a critical part of their growth. The opportunity to showcase their talents has not only enriched their lives but has also strengthened our community by fostering the next generation of leaders and artists.
The roof’s current condition poses a risk to both the building’s integrity and the experiences it offers. Without proper repairs, we risk losing a vital community resource that has done so much to shape and uplift the youth of Maui.
We ask for your support in ensuring the continued legacy of the I’ao Theater, so it can remain a place where children can build their confidence, creativity, and love for the arts, all while contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Maui.
Testimony in Support of Funding for the Iao Theater Roof Repair
Aloha,
I strongly support the funding needed to repair the roof of the Historic Iao Theater. This special placeis a puʻuhonua, a sanctuary, where our community comes together to create, learn, and grow through the arts. Generations of keiki and kūpuna alike have shared stories, laughter, and inspiration within its walls.
IAO Theater offers an opportunity that builds confidence, connection, and kuleana to one another. Without this space, many would lose access to the life-changing experience of storytelling and self-expression.
Please honor the spirit of aloha and ʻohana by approving the funds to restore the Iao Theater. Let us mālama this treasured space so it can continue to uplift our lāhui for generations to come.
The Iao Theatre is a blessing to the entire community. I absolutely would urge the funding to be approved for a new roof because this theatre is not only a historical site for Maui but one that brings in audiences even from people around the world. Being on the side of a regular attender to the performances and also being the parent of a regular performer, Iao is a sacred place for our keiki and community.
I support funding the repair and maintenance of Iao theater. This historical gem is the heart of Wailuku and performing arts on Maui. I was lucky to perform there as a child and now enjoy watching my boys do the same. It will not get cheaper to defer the maintenance and we cannot risk loosing this special place. Iao theater provides a place for the maui community to come together, celebrate the arts, create and grow our community. Please vote to repair our beloved theater.
My name is Eunica Espiritu and I am testifying in support of Maui Economic Development Boardʻs Economic Development Grant under the Maui County Office of Economic Development. MEDB has greatly expanded my knowledge over the past year. Through the program, I had the opportunity to intern at Maui Ku‘ia Chocolate Factory in Lahaina during the school year, and at Lāna‘i City Bar and Grill over the summer. Both experiences allowed me to gain valuable hands-on skills and insight into real work environments. I’m truly grateful to MEDB for making those opportunities possible.
This program has given students like me a chance to explore what it’s like to work in STEM fields. It helped us find out what we’re interested in and gave us more confidence in our future careers. Keeping this program going would be very helpful. It connects students with local businesses and keeps us curious and motivated. It also gives us real-world experience early on, which is important for our growth. I believe future students will benefit just as much, and I hope MEDB continues to support and grow this program.
Thank you.
I strongly support the funding dedicated to fixing the roof of the Iao Valley Theater. This much-needed repair will ensure that the theater can continue to be a vital hub for our community, providing a safe and inspiring space for children and teens to explore the arts. The theater is more than just a building; it’s a place where young people can develop their confidence, hone their talents, and express themselves in ways that shape their futures. With this support, the Iao Valley Theater will remain a cornerstone of creativity and connection for generations to come. It truly serves as a testament to the power of community in fostering growth and opportunity for our youth.
I strongly support the state funding to fix the roof at the historic Iao theater . The Iao provides so much join to our community and has for many years. It would be a shame to lose that opportunity to share with the next generation the legacy of the Iao theater.
Thank you .
Lily Campbell
My name is Christopher Garcia-Lick, and I am a longtime resident of Wailuku, an attorney, international legal advisor, and a proud board member of Maui OnStage, the nonprofit organization housed in the Historic ʻĪao Theater in Wailuku.
I’m writing today in strong support of the proposed $1.2 million Capital Improvement Project allocation in the FY 2026 County budget for a new roof at the ʻĪao Theater.
The ʻĪao Theater is far more than just a building—it is the cultural heartbeat of Wailuku and one of the most enduring homes of the performing arts on Maui and in Hawaiʻi. For nearly a century, it has welcomed generations of local artists, students, families, and audiences. It stands as a living symbol of the creativity, resilience, and spirit of our island community.
But that legacy now faces real risk. The roof has developed multiple significant leaks, and despite the tireless efforts of our exceptional staff to mitigate the damage, temporary fixes are no longer sufficient. Without this critical investment, the structure—and everything it represents—is increasingly vulnerable to permanent damage.
This funding is not just about preserving a historic landmark. It is about protecting a space where Maui’s keiki, kūpuna, and everyone in between can continue to gather, express themselves, and connect through shared stories and culture.
On behalf of the board and the entire Maui OnStage community, mahalo for your consideration and for your continued support of this vital and irreplaceable part of Wailuku’s—and Maui’s—cultural landscape.
Respectfully,
Christopher Garcia-Lick
Board Member, Maui OnStage
Testimony in Support of $1.2 Million for Roof Repairs at the Historic Iao Theater
Aloha,
I am the Co-Director of Maui OnStage's Education and Youth Program. The Historic Iao Theater has been a place where our youth and teens have performed since the beginning of the program in 2013. Being able to use the Historic Iao Theater gives the children and teens in our community an opportunity to perform on a real stage with a full set, lighting, sound, etc. We are able to use the theater without an additional rental cost which allows us to offer our cast to participate in the productions FREE of charge. Without the use of the Historic Iao Theater, we would have to find another venue to perform in which would charge us high facility cost and that cost would have to be partially be funded by charging families to participate in productions. By approving the roof repair, you are helping the future of theater thrive on Maui by giving our youth and teens a place to find their passion for theater and the arts.
Please prioritize funding for rental assistance in the Maui County budget. Families are struggling to afford housing, and rental assistance is a lifeline that prevents homelessness, supports local workers, and helps people stay rooted where they live, work, and raise their keiki. Please invest in programs that help keep our residents housed and our communities strong.
Mahalo for doing the right thing for our community.
- Sara
Aloha Council Members,
I'd like to present my support for Maui OnStage at The Historic Iao Theater for it's proposed renovations that are so overdue for a building that carries so much historical value to Maui and its Culture. It is time we the people of Maui give this amazing gem it's rightful place as the Diamond of Maui. Let's fix The Historic Iao Theater for its History, for the Present and for the Future of preserving the arts for our community all generations to come.
I’m writing today in support of the Wedding & Event Industry on Maui which is arguably one of the biggest silent drivers of our local economy. Wedding, after wedding, after wedding, we have been working and pumping tax dollars into the county. Well now we need your help. Since the fires and mixed messaging about visiting Maui, the wedding and event industry have taken a big hit, I’m a wedding photographer and business is down 40% for myself personally. It’s the common story among all my colleagues. Now is the time, and we’re asking for your support in the budget to promote the wedding and event industry on Maui.
Every day there are between 10-15 weddings on Maui, every single day. One wedding with 60 guests can easily generate 500K in gross income when you factor in not only all the wedding costs (which are often upwards of 100K for visitors), but the amounts paid by all their guests during their stay. One wedding easily generates 20K plus in taxes, since there are 10-15 weddings per day on Maui that is $208,500-$317,750 in taxes from ONE WEDDING.
We are asking for $300K which seems like a lot, but when you look at how much money this industry brings in, the amount is a fraction and it’s covered by the taxes from one wedding. There are 3,650-5,475 weddings per year on Maui. We are asking for this investment so that we can promote the industry and continue to bring in these much needed funds to our island. These are they type of visitors we want supporting the type of residents we need to keep on Maui.
I sincerely ask you to weigh in on the impact this industry brings to our island, and consider investing in us so that we can have a thriving and vibrant community.
Please fund repairs if Ioa theater! They are in invaluable asset to our community ❤️
**Testimony in Support of Continued Funding for the Iao Theater Roof Maintenance**
Aloha Members of the Maui County Council,
I’m writing in strong support of continued funding for the maintenance and preservation of the historic Iao Theater, with specific attention to the much-needed roof repairs.
The Iao Theater is not just a building—it is a cultural treasure and a cornerstone of our community. For decades, it has been a gathering place for residents and visitors alike, offering a stage for local talent and a platform for meaningful storytelling.
Perhaps most importantly, the Iao Theater is home to the *Maui Onstage* youth program, which provides a safe, creative space for young people to learn, grow, and express themselves. The impact of this program on our youth cannot be overstated—it builds confidence, fosters teamwork, and nurtures a lifelong love of the arts.
Preserving the Iao Theater ensures that we are protecting both a historic landmark and an active hub of community connection. It is a vital investment not only in our past, but in our future.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Morgan Wittmer
Hello,
As the mother of a Maui Onstage youth member for the past few years, I am writing in support of the roof repairs for the Historic Iao Theater.
My daughter along with her peers are privileged to have been provided the opportunity to perform in such a historically rich and respected building.
Failure by the County of Maui to approve funding for the roof repair would be a disservice to its keiki and community that it is called to provide and protect.
Thank you
Tori Al-Hark
As a teen actor The Iao Theater has become my home. It is where I found myself, made long lasting connections, and when I am happiest. Theater is who I am and not all schools have the chance of theater so we turn to the amazing Iao Theater. I know I am not the only student who feels this way. The Iao Theater is where we feel safe, heard, accepted. Performing is our way to give back to the community. The Iao Theater has been a light in the darkest times. This theater has entertained Maui since 1928 and still has not lost any of its magic and is still inspiring people. It is an essential part to Maui. I can’t imagine a world without our Iao Theater.
Aloha,
I am writing in support of the necessary improvements needed to maintain the historic Iao Theatre. My daughter has performed here many times and has greatly benefited and developed from her incredible experiences. She has grown in her passions for performing, acting, and dancing as a result of access to utilize this vital community hub. It is imperative to pass this funding for our keiki and future generations to come. What price tag can you put on life-changing experiences? Please pass for the sake of the keiki and vibrant community of Maui.
Mahalo,
Andrew
I am in full support of this bill to repair the historic Iao Thetare. The theatre has given this community joy in times of sadness. Giving people of the island a place to go and gather to enjoy art. It provides a place of understanding for everyone from Keiki to Kapuna. It is a place where hawaiian culture and western culture can merge and entwine seamlessly. My family has benefited greatly from the enrichment our lives have garnered from the participation in events at the Theatre.
Aloha,
I am writing to express my support fro the proposed $1.2 million Capital Improvement Project allocation in the FY 2026 County budget for a new roof at the ʻĪao Theater.
The community and organizations around this historic landmark are an absolute asset to Maui County. My family and I have been honored to be part of Maui OnStage, as patrons, supporters and members. The theater serves as a gathering place for our entire island community, giving opportunity to forge new friendships and connections with neighbors we might only otherwise see in passing.
The building itself provides a unique opportunity to interact with the past. The look, feel and design of ‘Iao Theater is an important part of Wailuku and Maui as a whole. It is truly a special experience to be part of a living history, and ‘Iao Theater provides that in ways that can't always be expressed with words. Preserving, protecting and nurturing a place that has had such a powerful impact on people's lives across generations is one of the greatest endeavors our community can do.
I know my family is enriched from our interactions and experiences at ‘Iao Theater. I believe the rest of the Maui community is, too. Please fund the repairs needed for ‘Iao Theater.
Mahalo,
Dylan Haymans
I am writing to request your approval to repair the leaking roof of the historic I’ao Theater. This beloved community landmark has touched the lives of many, providing a space for children to nurture their creativity and gain confidence through programs like Maui on Stage.
As a parent, I have seen firsthand how my children have flourished through their participation in these programs, and the I’ao Theater has been a critical part of their growth. The opportunity to showcase their talents has not only enriched their lives but has also strengthened our community by fostering the next generation of leaders and artists.
The roof’s current condition poses a risk to both the building’s integrity and the experiences it offers. Without proper repairs, we risk losing a vital community resource that has done so much to shape and uplift the youth of Maui.
We ask for your support in ensuring the continued legacy of the I’ao Theater, so it can remain a place where children can build their confidence, creativity, and love for the arts, all while contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Maui.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Testimony in Support of Funding for the Iao Theater Roof Repair
Aloha,
I strongly support the funding needed to repair the roof of the Historic Iao Theater. This special placeis a puʻuhonua, a sanctuary, where our community comes together to create, learn, and grow through the arts. Generations of keiki and kūpuna alike have shared stories, laughter, and inspiration within its walls.
IAO Theater offers an opportunity that builds confidence, connection, and kuleana to one another. Without this space, many would lose access to the life-changing experience of storytelling and self-expression.
Please honor the spirit of aloha and ʻohana by approving the funds to restore the Iao Theater. Let us mālama this treasured space so it can continue to uplift our lāhui for generations to come.
Mahalo nui loa.
Tiffany Aragon
Please, please keep the IAO valley theater open. My 7 yr old daughter fell in love with theatre when she saw the Seussical there last year.
She is now a cast member in he Maui Onstage Magic Treehouse production and will perform there next month.
There are lots of avenues for kids who are into sports or science... clubs, schools, private, community, on and on.
But for kids who want to perform... this is it!
If they lose the Iao theater, a whole generation loses their love of the arts. Don't do that to our Keiki.
Please, keep this amazing landmark open, so we build a strong generation of artists for a bright future.
The Iao Theatre is a blessing to the entire community. I absolutely would urge the funding to be approved for a new roof because this theatre is not only a historical site for Maui but one that brings in audiences even from people around the world. Being on the side of a regular attender to the performances and also being the parent of a regular performer, Iao is a sacred place for our keiki and community.
I support funding the repair and maintenance of Iao theater. This historical gem is the heart of Wailuku and performing arts on Maui. I was lucky to perform there as a child and now enjoy watching my boys do the same. It will not get cheaper to defer the maintenance and we cannot risk loosing this special place. Iao theater provides a place for the maui community to come together, celebrate the arts, create and grow our community. Please vote to repair our beloved theater.
My name is Eunica Espiritu and I am testifying in support of Maui Economic Development Boardʻs Economic Development Grant under the Maui County Office of Economic Development. MEDB has greatly expanded my knowledge over the past year. Through the program, I had the opportunity to intern at Maui Ku‘ia Chocolate Factory in Lahaina during the school year, and at Lāna‘i City Bar and Grill over the summer. Both experiences allowed me to gain valuable hands-on skills and insight into real work environments. I’m truly grateful to MEDB for making those opportunities possible.
This program has given students like me a chance to explore what it’s like to work in STEM fields. It helped us find out what we’re interested in and gave us more confidence in our future careers. Keeping this program going would be very helpful. It connects students with local businesses and keeps us curious and motivated. It also gives us real-world experience early on, which is important for our growth. I believe future students will benefit just as much, and I hope MEDB continues to support and grow this program.
Thank you.
I strongly support the funding dedicated to fixing the roof of the Iao Valley Theater. This much-needed repair will ensure that the theater can continue to be a vital hub for our community, providing a safe and inspiring space for children and teens to explore the arts. The theater is more than just a building; it’s a place where young people can develop their confidence, hone their talents, and express themselves in ways that shape their futures. With this support, the Iao Valley Theater will remain a cornerstone of creativity and connection for generations to come. It truly serves as a testament to the power of community in fostering growth and opportunity for our youth.
Thank you,
Annie Thielen
I strongly support the state funding to fix the roof at the historic Iao theater . The Iao provides so much join to our community and has for many years. It would be a shame to lose that opportunity to share with the next generation the legacy of the Iao theater.
Thank you .
Lily Campbell
Aloha Members of the Council,
My name is Christopher Garcia-Lick, and I am a longtime resident of Wailuku, an attorney, international legal advisor, and a proud board member of Maui OnStage, the nonprofit organization housed in the Historic ʻĪao Theater in Wailuku.
I’m writing today in strong support of the proposed $1.2 million Capital Improvement Project allocation in the FY 2026 County budget for a new roof at the ʻĪao Theater.
The ʻĪao Theater is far more than just a building—it is the cultural heartbeat of Wailuku and one of the most enduring homes of the performing arts on Maui and in Hawaiʻi. For nearly a century, it has welcomed generations of local artists, students, families, and audiences. It stands as a living symbol of the creativity, resilience, and spirit of our island community.
But that legacy now faces real risk. The roof has developed multiple significant leaks, and despite the tireless efforts of our exceptional staff to mitigate the damage, temporary fixes are no longer sufficient. Without this critical investment, the structure—and everything it represents—is increasingly vulnerable to permanent damage.
This funding is not just about preserving a historic landmark. It is about protecting a space where Maui’s keiki, kūpuna, and everyone in between can continue to gather, express themselves, and connect through shared stories and culture.
On behalf of the board and the entire Maui OnStage community, mahalo for your consideration and for your continued support of this vital and irreplaceable part of Wailuku’s—and Maui’s—cultural landscape.
Respectfully,
Christopher Garcia-Lick
Board Member, Maui OnStage
Testimony in Support of $1.2 Million for Roof Repairs at the Historic Iao Theater
Aloha,
I am the Co-Director of Maui OnStage's Education and Youth Program. The Historic Iao Theater has been a place where our youth and teens have performed since the beginning of the program in 2013. Being able to use the Historic Iao Theater gives the children and teens in our community an opportunity to perform on a real stage with a full set, lighting, sound, etc. We are able to use the theater without an additional rental cost which allows us to offer our cast to participate in the productions FREE of charge. Without the use of the Historic Iao Theater, we would have to find another venue to perform in which would charge us high facility cost and that cost would have to be partially be funded by charging families to participate in productions. By approving the roof repair, you are helping the future of theater thrive on Maui by giving our youth and teens a place to find their passion for theater and the arts.
Please prioritize funding for rental assistance in the Maui County budget. Families are struggling to afford housing, and rental assistance is a lifeline that prevents homelessness, supports local workers, and helps people stay rooted where they live, work, and raise their keiki. Please invest in programs that help keep our residents housed and our communities strong.
Mahalo for doing the right thing for our community.
- Sara
Aloha Council Members,
I'd like to present my support for Maui OnStage at The Historic Iao Theater for it's proposed renovations that are so overdue for a building that carries so much historical value to Maui and its Culture. It is time we the people of Maui give this amazing gem it's rightful place as the Diamond of Maui. Let's fix The Historic Iao Theater for its History, for the Present and for the Future of preserving the arts for our community all generations to come.
With care,
Adi Ell-Ad
MOS VP Board of Directors
Aloha Council members,
I’m writing today in support of the Wedding & Event Industry on Maui which is arguably one of the biggest silent drivers of our local economy. Wedding, after wedding, after wedding, we have been working and pumping tax dollars into the county. Well now we need your help. Since the fires and mixed messaging about visiting Maui, the wedding and event industry have taken a big hit, I’m a wedding photographer and business is down 40% for myself personally. It’s the common story among all my colleagues. Now is the time, and we’re asking for your support in the budget to promote the wedding and event industry on Maui.
Every day there are between 10-15 weddings on Maui, every single day. One wedding with 60 guests can easily generate 500K in gross income when you factor in not only all the wedding costs (which are often upwards of 100K for visitors), but the amounts paid by all their guests during their stay. One wedding easily generates 20K plus in taxes, since there are 10-15 weddings per day on Maui that is $208,500-$317,750 in taxes from ONE WEDDING.
We are asking for $300K which seems like a lot, but when you look at how much money this industry brings in, the amount is a fraction and it’s covered by the taxes from one wedding. There are 3,650-5,475 weddings per year on Maui. We are asking for this investment so that we can promote the industry and continue to bring in these much needed funds to our island. These are they type of visitors we want supporting the type of residents we need to keep on Maui.
I sincerely ask you to weigh in on the impact this industry brings to our island, and consider investing in us so that we can have a thriving and vibrant community.
Mahalo for your time, Tara Murphy