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Historic Kona Theater Restoration

Reviving a historic landmark to reconnect past, present, and future generations.
The historic Kona Theater restoration is a TPHA initiative to preserve and revitalize a 97-year-old cultural landmark in Captain Cook. Originally built in 1928, the theater once served as a gathering place for Kona’s sugar and coffee plantation families. The project will transform it into a 380-seat, multi-use community hub for films, performances, educational events, and banquets, complete with a commercial kitchen, ADA-compliant facilities, and modern sound and lighting systems. Managed by TPHA  as an Independent nonprofit, the restoration honors local heritage while fostering connection and creativity for future generations. Contingent upon meeting our funding goals, construction on the Theater can commence in 2026.

Historic Kona Theater Restoration

A Cultural Anchor for Community Revival

The Historic Kona Theater Restoration project aims to preserve and revitalize a 97-year-old landmark in Captain Cook, Hawai‘i. Originally built in 1928, this Orpheum-style theater served generations of Hawaiian and Japanese families working in Kona’s sugar and coffee industries. Now, TPHA seeks to restore it as a modern multi-use cultural facility and community hub.

Project Vision

The restored theater will seat up to 380 guests, with flexible table and platform layouts for banquets, civic meetings, film screenings, musical and theatrical performances, and educational, cultural, nonprofit, and commercial events. A full commercial kitchen and upgraded ADA-compliant restrooms will support gatherings of all sizes. The historic Orpheum-designed proscenium and thrust stage will be modernized with surround sound, professional lighting, crisp laser projection, stage drapery, and backstage changing facilities to maximize community space.

Community & Cultural Impact

This space will honor generations of local families and provide a much-needed venue for connection, celebration, and storytelling. The theater will be managed by a separate nonprofit organized under TPHA’s board of directors, preserving the long-term community ownership and enhancing participation by state and local agencies for the benefit of the people.

Funding Plan*

Land Contract Lock: $150,000

  • Land Closing: $1.4 million (including $650K tax credit)
  • Restoration Launch: $950,000
  • Total Theater Goal: $2.3 million 90% of all donations go directly to restoration, with a 10% cap on admin expenses. Donations are tax-deductible via TPHA’s 501(c)3 status and IRS Form 8283 eligibility.

Timeline:

A fundraising is set to begin in early 2026 for the acquisition of the property, with a hopeful closing and commencement of restoration by the fourth quarter.

*For prospective donors and sponsors please request a copy of our pledge drive commitment , terms and conditions.

Support TPHA’s Mission

Your contribution helps TPHA continue developing breakthrough resilient technologies that protect communities and preserve resources. Together, we can build a safer, more sustainable future.

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Jennifer Price

Director / Treasurer/ Business Manager
As a founding Board Member, Jen brings over three decades of experience in managing startups within the design, consulting, technology, and construction industries. Specializing in financial forecasting, tax strategy, and accounting, she provides robust oversight and strategic guidance in corporate affairs. Her expertise extends to leading special projects, enhancing manufacturing processes, and overseeing property management. Known for her analytical approach and strategic thinking, she plays a pivotal role in steering companies toward sustainable growth and operational excellence. Her leadership skills and deep industry knowledge make her an indispensable resource in navigating complex business environments and achieving corporate objectives.

Jessie Torrisi

Director / Creative & Strategy
Jessie has dedicated the past two decades to crafting compelling narratives and spearheading communications, fundraising, and advocacy initiatives for global nonprofits. Through her consultancy, Spark Strategy & Communications, she has served organizations such as Human Rights Watch, Earthjustice, Color Of Change, Comic Relief, the Marshall Project, Asia Catalyst, the Youth Engagement Fund, and the American Civil Liberties Union's LGBTQ and Women Rights Projects. Her work is driven by a deep commitment to racial and climate justice, using storytelling as a powerful tool to mobilize action against the world’s injustices.

Dawn Sena M.A.R.(S)

Executive Director
Dawn, a dedicated Board Member, brings over a decade of experience across business, non-profits, and real estate. Renowned for her expertise in business development, donor relations, and publicity, Dawn has a proven track record of driving growth and fostering meaningful partnerships. She has successfully spearheaded special events and fundraising campaigns, showcasing her ability to connect with diverse stakeholders and deliver impactful results. With a strategic mindset and a passion for community engagement, Dawn is committed to advancing organizational goals and creating lasting positive change in every project she undertakes.

Pualilia Paikuli

Director of Cultural Affairs
Pua, a mother and descendant of Kamehameha-nui & Kalola-nui, is an entrepreneurial Licensed Massage Therapist in Hawai'i for 22 years. Deeply committed to her Native Hawaiian and Acoma Native American heritage, she studies and teaches indigenous practices. As part of the Kaiāulu Ancestral Wisdom Collective and a mahi'ai, she focuses on sustainably cultivating Native Hawaiian plants. A mystic mermaid and yogi, Pua also studies Hawaiian, Mayan calendars, and Western Astrology. Advocating for natural living, she promotes climate education, sustainable communities, and whole foods. Embodying the Aloha Spirit, she navigates life as a peaceful rainbow warrior and conduit of change.

The Creative Collective

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