Passing the Torch

Aloha, I sincerely hope this message finds you all in very good health.

Moving on is never easy, but now it is the right time for me to say goodbye to the Oʻahu Fringe Festival. Soon the reigns will be handed over to a wonderful group of people who will now lead Fringe on its new journey.

Oʻahu Fringe was inspired by the many talented people here, which led to a conversation with Tim Bostock. From this conversation, Oʻahu Fringe Festival kicked off with a wonderful smorgasbord of artists. I am so thankful to the super amazing artists who shared their talent and I cannot thank you enough. Without your commitment and support, our Fringe would not have moved along. We certainly had a wonderful season from 2011 to 2019 and to reach Fringe 6 is an amazing milestone.

I would like to take this moment to acknowledge the many who gave advice and moral support over the years. My apologies if I missed listing your name below. Yes, with their help, Fringe became a part of the artistic landscape of Hawaiʻi. Your support meant so much. Folks, please join with me as I thank these wonderful people: Tim Bostock, Maya Portner, Cyrina Hadad, Esther Izuo, Courtney Oyama, Ryan Sueoka, Garrick Paikai, Kimee Balmilero, Puka Asing, Ikaika Hussey, Thomas Tochiki, Terri Padden, Gwen Arbaugh, Rose Wolfe, Carlynn Wolfe, Joe Wilcox, Nicole Tessier, Louise Hung, Dawn Tolosa, Jeannette Hereniko, Vili Hereniko, Hawaii Arts Alliance, Kim Coffee-Isaak, Thomas Pang, Joshua Nye, Donna Blanchard, Jeff Gere, Jeff Sanner, Abel Coelho, Daniel Sakimura, Brett Botbyl, Duke King, Catherine Au Hoy, Tracy Chan, Nick Navales, Kuki Navales, Dana Paresa, Ross Mukai, James Charisma, Robin Gillette, Tracy Larrua, Cheyne Gallarde, Shelly Simpson, Sarah Reo, US Fringe, Honolulu Night Market, Poni Askew, Brandon Askew, Michael Pulliam, Maui Fringe Festival, Holly Payton, Cath Mattos, World Fringe Network, Kevin Patterson, San Diego Fringe, Ben Hill, Hollywood Fringe Festival, Tuscon Fringe Festival, Chicago Fringe Festival, World Fringe Managers, Kumu Hina, Emily Padden and to the many wonderful volunteers, artists and crew. Your kindness and aloha meant so much.

I am also indebted to the many venues for hosting our shows, plus the media and sponsors. To have your backing was such a blessing. Your support afforded us the possibility to showcase our wonderful artists.

Finally, Iʻd like to send out a massive thank you and with all my love to the Navales & Tupou ʻohana. Your undying love cannot be measured, thank you for your help. I really do appreciate it so very much.

May you all continue to share your talent and do what makes your heart sing. Yes, go forth and light the way.

Ofa moe alofa and aloha to you all with so much aroha from me.

cheers!

Misa