Manoa Valley Theatre

Manoa Valley Theatre (MVT), established in 1969 by graduate students from the University of Hawaii Theatre Department, is Hawaii's first professional resident adult theatre. Initially founded as the Hawaii Performing Arts Company (HPAC), MVT aimed to nurture local theatre artists and provide live entertainment for the community. Over four decades, MVT has evolved from a young company building its audience to a semi-professional theatre known as Honolulu's Off-Broadway Playhouse. The theatre's mission, refined in 2004, is to entertain and enrich Hawaii's audiences and artists through the production and promotion of live theatre. Guiding principles include providing quality entertainment, developing local theatre talent, producing educational and thought-provoking experiences, embracing artistic risks, maintaining professionalism, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. MVT has seen significant growth, including the establishment of a 150-seat performance and administrative facility after a successful $1 million capital campaign. The theatre has diversified its artistic offerings, hosted guest residencies with award-winning playwrights, and expanded community outreach programs. It has gained acclaim for its contemporary, enlightening, and provocative play selections, often presenting Hawaii debuts of mainstream contemporary plays and musicals from Broadway and major regional theatres. MVT's annual season showcases Hawaii's talent, serving both the cultural community and local audiences.