The Wave of Harmony Foundation Story

At just 9 years old, Barry Kawakami stepped onto the stage for the first time at the Baldwin High School Performing Arts Learning Center, and in that moment, his world expanded. He had never experienced anything like it before—the thrill of performing, the warmth of the lights, the energy of the audience. But more than anything, it was the first time he truly felt seen and heard. Before theatre, Barry didn’t know where he fit in. The stage gave him a place to belong, a voice to express himself, and a newfound confidence that shaped the course of his life. It was in those early years—supported by family, friends, mentors and a community that believed in him—that he discovered the transformative power of the performing arts.

As Barry grew, so did his passion for the arts. He saw how theatre could change lives, how it gave young people a sense of purpose, a safe space to create, and the confidence to dream beyond their circumstances. But he also saw the barriers—the kids who couldn’t afford classes, the students who never had the chance to see a live performance, and the lack of access to arts education for so many in the community. He knew talent was everywhere, but opportunity was not. That realization became his driving force. Barry wasn’t just going to pursue the arts—he was going to make the arts accessible for everyone.

With a passion for the arts and a promise to pay it forward, Barry founded the Wave of Harmony Foundation—a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the magic of the performing arts.

Through arts education, mentorship, and innovative programs, Wave of Harmony provides young people with the resources, training, and confidence to thrive. But WHF is not just about the next generation—it’s about everyone. It’s about the kūpuna (elders) who pass down their wisdom and cultural traditions. It’s about the artists and educators who inspire and uplift. It’s about the communities that come together to heal, celebrate, and dream through the arts.

What began as one child’s dream has grown into a movement that is transforming Maui’s future.

Through initiatives like PlusOneTicket, which has provided over 6,500 free or subsidised tickets to youth, families and kūpuna,  Maui Performing Arts Fund, Maui Theatre Shop, and the Melodies of Maui cultural series, we are making the arts more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable.

But this is bigger than a stage.

We are investing in Maui’s creative economy, helping local performers, technicians, and artisans build careers and sustain livelihoods while ensuring that Maui’s rich artistic heritage continues to thrive. By fostering partnerships with schools, theatre companies, and community organizations, WHF is building an infrastructure where the arts can flourish—not just today, but for generations to come.

Barry knows firsthand that one performance, one mentor, and one opportunity can change a life—because it changed his.

Today, through the Wave of Harmony Foundation, we are ensuring that same opportunity exists for thousands of others.

Now, we invite you to be part of this movement to help us build a stronger, more vibrant Maui through the performing arts.