The Kahilu Theatre Board of Directors announced that Executive Director Sara Nealy will be resigning from her position as of June 30, 2023.

Nealy has been with the organization since January 2021 and led the theatre through a period of adversity amid the pandemic. She was instrumental in expanding Kahilu.TV as a way of diversifying avenues by which the Theatre brings culturally-centered programming beyond the stage. During her tenure, Kahilu Theatre also initiated a place-based approach to community engagement, collaborating with Kohala leaders and organizations to develop keiki arts education programs that foster a sense of place and to seek meaningful engagement with the community. She also worked to advance the Theatre’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) initiative.

“I am honored to have had the opportunity to serve at Kahilu Theatre, a place I hold close to my heart,” said Nealy in a press release. Nealy continued, “This journey has been marked by collaboration, resiliency, and the deep commitment of our remarkable team to Hawaiʻi’s community. As I step down from the Executive Director role to pursue other projects, I want to acknowledge the dedication of the Board of Directors and the staff of Kahilu. I look forward to working with them to ensure a smooth transition. I will be leaving with a profound sense of gratitude knowing the Theatre will continue to thrive as a cultural gem for all. Imua!”

The Board of Directors will evaluate Kahilu Theatre’s leadership and organizational structure as part of the development of a new strategic plan, a process that Nealy helped launch last Fall.

For more information, contact Board President Kapena Alapai at kapena@kahilutheatre.org.