The Journey of Okinawans in Hawaii Highlighted in New Play

HONOLULU (Hawaii News Now) – A recent theatrical production on Oahu has illuminated the history and experiences of Okinawans in Hawaii. Titled ‘Our Okinawan Ohana,’ this play was created by Playbuilders of Hawaii and written by Hawaii Poet Laureate Lee Tanouchi after nearly two years of collecting narratives from Okinawans, also known as Uchinanchu, throughout the state.

The performance delved into the obstacles faced by Okinawan immigrants as well as the achievements and communities they established. One character was inspired by Hawaii News Now reporter Jonathan Masaki, portrayed by actor Devon Izumigawa in a scene where a fictionalized reporter discusses the distinctions between Japanese and Okinawan identities at the Okinawan Community Center. While the Oahu run has concluded, the production is slated to travel to Maui in early 2027.