Panji and the Lost Princess: the Magic of Balinese Shadow Theatre Comes to Life On-stage at Kennedy Theatre

Panji and the Lost Princess: A Spectacular Balinese Shadow Theatre Experience at Kennedy Theatre

Honolulu audiences will have a rare chance to experience the magic of Balinese shadow theatre this April when the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s Department of Theatre & Dance and Kennedy Theatre present Panji and the Lost Princess. Running April 17–26, 2026 on the Kennedy Theatre Mainstage, this visually stunning production blends giant shadow puppets, live actors and dancers, and the hypnotic sounds of a full gamelan orchestra.

Co-directed by Theatre & Dance professor Kirstin Pauka and renowned Balinese master artist I Madé Moja, the performance brings to life a beloved story from the centuries-old Panji epic cycle. The Panji stories are unique in that there isn’t any singular fixed text – instead these tales have been passed down and adapted across different regions of Southeast Asia for hundreds of years. This performance features an adaptation, by I Ketut Wirtawan and I Madé Moja, that follows Prince Panji and his betrothed, Princess Candra Kirana, whose destined love is tested by separation, magical disguises, and political intrigue. Rooted in a 13th-century East Javanese romance tradition the story unfolds through the innovative Balinese theatrical form known as wayang listrik, or “electric shadows.”

This large-scale shadow theatre tradition transforms simple materials into immersive stage magic. Elaborate puppets, intricate handcrafted shadow scenery, dramatic lighting, and performers both in front of and behind a giant screen create a rich cinematic effect – yet everything happens live. The performance is accompanied by a vibrant gamelan ensemble led by master musician I Madé Widana, adding rhythmic energy and cultural depth to the experience.

The production reflects the collaborative spirit of Balinese performing arts, featuring University of Hawai‘i students alongside community members and keiki performers in both the orchestra and dance ensemble. It also marks the return of I Made Moja to Kennedy Theatre, where his previous wayang listrik productions captivated local audiences.

Performances take place Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with a special Sunday matinee on April 26 at 2:00 p.m. Pre-show talks will be offered before the April 18 and April 25 performances, giving audiences deeper insight into this unique theatrical tradition.

Tickets range from $9 to $25, with special “Throwback Saturday” pricing available for the April 18 performance. For show details and ticket information, visit the Kennedy Theatre box office online.

Blending ancient storytelling, handcrafted artistry, and live music, Panji and the Lost Princess promises to be a mesmerizing cultural experience unlike anything else on stage in Honolulu this spring.

by Honolulu Vibes