Waikiki Luau Dinner with Polynesian Show & Fire Knife Dance | Rock-A-Hula
Overall Rating
4.74
Not exactly what I would expect of a traditional Luau. Excellent proffesional performers, but not so much hula during the performance. The food is fantastic and very traditional, but you don't see the pig cooked.
Reviewed by: Wen, 2024/04/18We chose this Luau experience because it was in Wakiki area. First you arrive to a mall and go to floor 4 for dinner. Dinner was outdoor under a covered area. The food quality was great and the entertainment during the meal was fantastic. Hula dancers and music. Thye even invited guests up to try hula. For us the dinner was the best part. Now on to the show.
If you are looking for a traditional Hula show at a Luau, go elsewhere. This show is in a theatre, so you are indoor. The show is Hawaiian dance thru the ages. It begins with a traditional hula dance and ends with one, but the majority of the show is Elvis and Micheal Jackson performances. Now, the quality of the performance by the performers was first class. All the singers and dancers were excellent performers, so for a show, it was well worth the money we paid. It just isn't what you think of for a traditional Luau. It is better to take a shuttle and to somewhere like Gerards if you want a traditional Luau experience including making Laies and seeing the pig pulled from the ground.
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| Attended as: | Families |
| Activity Date: | 2024/04/10 |
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We had a good time
Reviewed by: AY, 2023/12/16It was our first activity in Honolulu. It is located in the mall area, so very easy to get to for most people staying in Waikiki. There are a lot of people, so there is a long line to get the food. But it was well organized and there is enough food provided. The food quality is ok. But the activities (learning the dance) at the buffet were fun.
The show was decent. I like that it was a mix of traditional and modern styles. If you are looking for only a traditional Hawaii type of show, it might not be good for you. But to us, it was a lot of fun to watch.
Overall it was a good experience for our first stop.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2023/12/14 |
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I really enjoyed the show!
Reviewed by: Casandra, 2023/10/25I paid for the VIP package for a group of 6 people and everything went pretty smoothly from checking in to being seated at our table. Everything was pretty efficient from getting our meals to seeing the show. My only issue of concern was that I paid for the additional drink and we were not able to use them. We were told that there would be an opportunity to use them during the show but no one told us we had to get them before the show started because there would not be an intermission or an opportunity afterwards. The waiters need to clearly state that if you don't get your drink during your meal, you need to be sure to get it before heading into the show because you won't get the opportunity otherwise. The show was amazing from the MC, Elvis, to Michael Jackson! The dancers and band did a great job as well!
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2023/10/22 |
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First time seeing Luau
Reviewed by: Linh, 2023/10/21Everything was okay, the server forgot to bring the welcome drink to us for more than 30 mins until we reminded him.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2023/09/30 |
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Classic songs
Reviewed by: Alex Andrade , 2023/04/04The show was very entertaining, all of the singers and dancers are outstanding. The food was delicious, and a lot of options to choose from. Seating was comfortable and we didn’t get wet from the rain because we were covered. All in all it was a great experience for us.
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| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/02 |
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It was worth it.
Reviewed by: Chris, 2022/12/05It was my first time visiting Hawaii and I wanted to watch a hula show. After doing some research, I chose Rock-A-Hula among others because of the location. It was located in the heart of Waikiki so I didn't have to worry about driving and another parking fees. The show is overall great, but I can't really say the same about the sound quality. It's not about the performance quality, but more of a sound system they have in the theatre. I'm a musician myself and may be little sensitive than musician, most people wouldn't tell the difference. (In fact, my parents really loved it). You could see many talented dancers and singers perform and it was the bomb. I highly recommend it!
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| Attended as: | Families |
| Activity Date: | 2022/12/01 |
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Fantastic night with friends and family with spectacular show
Reviewed by: Savannme , 2022/11/19This is my first time joining the Luau dinner with Polynesian Show. When we arrived there was a traditional Hawaiian dance to greeting us. The Luau dinner was tasty. But the line was moving a bit slow. Buffet dinner was starting at 6pm, but when we started getting the food, it was already passed 6:30pm. Not enough time to enjoy the food.
The show was spectacular. Great music and dance including Polynesian and Contemporary choreography. The fire knife dance was scary awesome. I highly recommend this show if you are interested in a lively, entertaining night in Honolulu!
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| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/13 |
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Very Nice Experience
Reviewed by: topeaglee, 2022/11/18The Luau dinner and Rock-A-Hula are situated at a very convenient location. The Luau buffet-style dinner had many different options including roast pig and dessert. The line was moving a bit slow. Not enough time to enjoy the food. The Rock-A-Show was very good. Really enjoyed the hula dancers and singing. Overall it is a great activity if you like dinner and show.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/13 |
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Awesome dinner and show along the Waikiki Beach
Reviewed by: chocoUS, 2022/11/17First time attending to this Luau and Polynesian Show called Rock -A-Hula. The dinner and show took place at a very convienent location along the Waikiki Beach. Getting situated to the seating was very easy. Staffs were very friendly and helpful. The dinner itself had a good variety buffet style and was tasty. Overall the line on waiting for the food could have been better. Took me appx 30 minutes before I was lining up for the buffet line. By the time I got my food, only had about 30 minutes left to eat. Felt a little rushed. The Rock-A-Hula definitely is a must see. Very nice production, dancers were great, and singers were impressive. Overall I highly recommend doing this activity.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/13 |
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Review
Reviewed by: Marisa Ramirez, 2022/11/17Upon arrival to the Luau we were greeted by a young lady selling beautiful purple lei’s. Of course we had to have one not only for the beauty, but the feeling of being welcomed in to the community as well.
The host/dancer/MC/ bartender was extremely friendly with everyone. We were ushered to our seats by a wonderful young man that not only performed at the luau, but also at Rock a Hula. This young man was full of passion for the culture and the love of dance.
The drinks and pineapple were at great start to our dinner as well as the traditional dancing while we waited for the main course.
There was plenty of dishes to chose from including seafood, pork, beef, chicken, and even vegetarian choices. I personally recommend the fried pig skin as it was the absolute most delectable dish we were privy to enjoy during our visit. After dinner we tried each of the 5 different desserts. None of them blow your socks off, but are nonetheless tasty as well. There is also after dinner coffee for those of you who enjoy a nice hot cup of Joe before the Rock a Hula.
You could order drinks during dinner and before the Rock a Hula began as well.
The choice of a local musician and singer was a wonderful way to start the show. The classic Elvis performance seemed to fit the show perfectly and added to the fun filled and interactive show. The only thing that felt out of place was the Michael Jackson performance. While it wasn’t bad, it just didn’t seem to fit in to the rest of the event in general. I would give the luau and Rock a Hula a 7 out of 10 stars.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/12 |
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Exactly as expected and a little more
Reviewed by: Josh B, 2022/11/16Overall we got exactly what we were expecting, which, for us, was actually refreshing. So many businesses mislead these days. We were happy with our experience and pleasantly surprised at the Rock A Hula show afterwards.
Our first impression was great. The setup under the large tents and the decor and dishware were all very nice. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We were seated quickly and immediately served our complimentary Mai Tai and offered fresh pineapple at the table. We ordered more adult beverages and while they tasted fine, did not seem to have much if any alcohol in them. The MC did a good job of keeping things running smoothly and had an upbeat attitude. We enjoyed the dancers and learning to hula felt very welcoming. They presented the roasted pig with the traditional apple in its mouth. Definitely try some along with the crispy skin. We found the food at the buffet somewhat bland, but that was our experience throughout most of Hawaii.
After dinner we proceeded to the large theater for the show. This presentation is much bigger and longer than we anticipated. We would attend this show by itself without the dinner and pay handsomely for it. The Elvis and MJ impersonators were great! The charisma and crowd interactions of both of them and other entertainers were spot on! The show is a bit long and disjointed though. And while we do love MJ and his songs, some seemed a bit "off-brand" for a Hawaiian themed hula show. Thriller was one, even though the zombies were great and so was Michael.
Overall we'd give the luau and show a 7 out of 10. Food and drinks could be better and show could be shorter and more on-brand. We would still highly recommend it, especially for the price.
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| Attended as: | Friends |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/12 |
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A Must Do Experience that Exceeded my Expectations!
Reviewed by: Michele N. , 2022/10/11The dinner and show were a great way to spend time in Hawaii, and I would do this one again! The food was tasty, plentiful, and offered more of a variety of choices than some of the other luaus I’ve attended on the island. Be sure to come hungry! I was thrilled that I could enjoy a welcome mai tai since they had a nonalcoholic option. I thought I was going to have to miss out, but they had me covered, and it didn’t taste like it was only pineapple juice. After the delicious dinner and fun fellowship with other guests, it was time for the show. The transition from the dining area to the show venue was smooth. The staff was so helpful. Shout out to Sheena!
Some of the performers in the show had also attended to us at the luau. It was awesome to see them in their element on stage. They were professional in both settings, and so talented on stage. I felt like I was watching friends perform. I knew the show was about Hawaii over time, but I was pleasantly surprised when “Elvis” came on stage and you also had to bolt me to my seat when “Michael Jackson” appeared. Both performers were believable! The fire dancer was lit! (Pun intended) and the energetic dancers and singers were top notch. Be sure to come with a camera to take lots of pictures with the flash off, of course! You will not be disappointed!
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/09 |
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So glad there was a covered area from the rain!
Reviewed by: Yes to Hawaii, 2022/09/29Tasty buffet dinner! The food was DELICIOUS. I really liked the variety of food - and dessert options! While I'm not vegetarian, I did notice there were a few vegetarian options - including the fried rice (my favorite). There was some hula dancing for the first part of the dinner and we could join in for hula lessons. I liked that this was an outdoor dinner BUT there was a covered tent above us in case of any rain.
And, it did end up raining. Lucky for us, the covered tent kept us nice and dry. Then, we headed inside to the indoor theater where we saw the Vegas-style impersonators for Elvis, Michael Jackson, and a local performer.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2022/07/06 |
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Waikiki Luau Dinner with Polynesian Show & Fire Knife Dance | Rock-A-Hula / Luau Buffet Package: One Welcome Drink & Rock-A-Hula Show Premier Seating
Reviewed by: Beck, 2022/09/24Loved the show, food was ok but I was disappointed they didn't have steamed white rice.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/01 |
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Very entertaining show!
Reviewed by: Ashton, 2019/11/18I did the Green Room package which was neat being able to go back stage to see how things work behind the scenes along with being able to sit right in front of the stage to eat and watch the show which gave you a great view being so close to the performers. I like how they always include a local artist to perform too, so you are able to see not only Michael Jackson and Elvis but someone local as well. It's also nice that everything is indoors so you don't have to worry about the weather ruining your plans.
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| Attended as: | Friends |
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A fun night with friends at Rock-A-Hula!
Reviewed by: Jacky Daniels, 2019/11/07I attended Rock-A-Hula for the first time this past week and it was really entertaining! I went with a couple friends and we chose the Green Room Tour. With this package we were sat at a stage-level table so we were closest to the performers. The three course meal included lobster, beef tenderloin, salmon and was completed with a yummy mac-nut pineapple gelato. The cocktails were really good, my favorite was the lychee martini! It was really fun to be able to take photos with Michael Jackson before the show and they also offered us a complimentary glass of champagne. The show was very exciting and entertaining; my favorite performer was the local artist Meliana. All of the dancers, musicians, and singers were very talented and seemed like they all had a ton of fun up on stage. Overall, it was a great night and I would recommend it to anyone on vacation wanting a fun and entertaining night out.
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| Attended as: | Friends |
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Great overall
Reviewed by: Cierra Burton , 2018/03/15The night started off with hula dancing, and then transitioned into dining and then the show. It's only being honest when I say the food was a disappointing. I guess I expected it to be a little more foreign. It tasted great and me and my mom both got more than enough. The hosts were extremely original and open and encouraging to conversation. The girls were gorgeous and so attentive. There was only one guy host, Zack and he was really considerate, High energy and fun. The show definitely climaxes. It was so exciting. All of the performers looked happy to be there and we're putting themselves into it. It's obvious that alot of effort went into the choreography, set up and music. I loved that the singing was live and the VOICES!! Wow. Micheal Jackson, Katy Perry, Elvis in mpersonations were more than exceptional.
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| Attended as: | Friends |
| Activity Date: | 2018/03/14 |
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Awesome show!
Reviewed by: Tameka German , 2018/03/11Rock-a-hula was awesome! The waitress were very helpful and friendly. During the dinner they entertained us with singing and dancing. The food was great and there were a good selection to choose from. Megan, the waitress was very easy to talk to and did a great job during her performance. All the performers did a great job impersonating each artist. The guy who was doing the fire performance did a awesome job, I thought that was very impressive and entertaining. After all the performance we were able to actually meet and take pictures with the them. My wife and I had a great time during the Rock-a-hula event, I would definitely recommend it to my family and friends as something to experience.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2018/03/08 |
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My experience was great!
Reviewed by: Rena, 2018/03/11The rock a hula was an amazing show. Everyone in the cast was nice and very friendly. Their performance was outstanding. They were good singers and impersonators of the artists. The food was okay, but the service and entertainment was outstanding. This show is good entertainment for all ages. The time and set up was great. I would strongly recommend this show to anyone visiting the waikiki area.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2018/03/08 |
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Great Experience!
Reviewed by: Mitch, 2018/01/02The green room experience is a must do experience, especially for those that enjoy theater shows! The family all loved it and the opportunity to meet the stars of the show, talk with them and take pictures while sipping champagne and eating hors d’oeuvres was fun and insightful. Elvis was especially friendly and personable! The food was very good, especially the tender steak and creamy mashed potatoes. The Polynesian dancers were exciting to watch and the sword and fire welding dancer was amazing! A good mix of the Hawaiian culture with the feel of a rock concert that the whole family can appreciate and enjoy! We would definitely recommend it if you have not been before!
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| Attended as: | Families |
| Activity Date: | 2017/12/30 |
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Rock a Hula dinner & show
Reviewed by: Carol Hanson, 2017/09/23The event was well organized starting with proof of ticket, to complimentary drink, I can not comment on the appetizers, because we were a little late arriving so we missed them. The meal, which consisted of salmon, steak and potato, was disappointing because it was served cold, but the taste was lovely. Also, we were not impressed with the uniform table arrangements, it would have been better in groups.
Actual show was very good, Elvis looked like a young Elvis Presley, he had a good voice, and stage presence, good with the audience participation. My personal favourite was Michael Jackson, who reminded us of a younger Michael Jackson before all his cosmetic surgery. He had all the right dance moves, especially Billie Jean and the moon walk. Katy Perry was believable, strong vocals, she appeals to a younger audience, and the props she used had a great effect. Costumes for all three artists were very good. The fire knife dancer was amazing, I held my breath in parts he made a dangerous act look easy. All the background dancers,proved themselves worthy with an excellent display of hula dancing.... amazing! The band worked well with each individual artist and the drummer was amazing. Back up singers went through many costume changes with speed and professionalism and set changes ie: bubble and surfboard sections added to the overall enjoyment of the show. The inclusion of Don Ho and the ukulele was a nice salute to the Hawaiian culture,
The waiters and waitresses worked diligently throughout, and cleared the tables efficiently, and were attentive to diners needs. Another nice touch was the fact that there was two celebrations, a Birthday and honeymoon was announced, and we all got to share in the celebration. The screens at either side of the stage was a novel idea and added to the enjoyment of the show. All the artists were very accommodating after the show and graciously took time with people from the audience that wanted photographs taken with them or chat.
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| Attended as: | Friends |
| Activity Date: | 2017/09/19 |
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Great atmosphere!
Reviewed by: Katie , 2017/09/17A fun filled night with good singing and dancing. Entertaining for all ages!
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| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Activity Date: | 2017/09/14 |
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Good fun
Reviewed by: Ian cash , 2017/09/16We enjoyed the show and thought it was quite professional
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2017/08/22 |
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2017/05/28 |
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Awesome show
Reviewed by: Michael Wallace, 2017/05/16The Rock a Hula show was good, including Elvis presley, michael jackson, and katie perry. It also included traditional festive hawaiian misic, and dance, as was quite entertaining.!! I would recommend taking the show-laua package, food was great, and hosts were sooo nice!! I hope you will decide to go. The fire knife dance was also very entertaining!! He pressed the fire directly to his tongue, and held up the fire directly with his feet! Also twirled the fire with both hands! I cannot believe how he can stand the heat!! Elvis presley sang many songs, and came off the stage into the balcony, and shook my hand, and hugged my wife, unbelievable!! Michael jackson did his moonwalk, and sang classic mj songs like billie jean, etc., so entertaining!! He really looked like michael jackson, the black geri-curled hair, signature white glove, red dance jacket, and those famous michael jackson dance moves, WOW!!
I can't say enough about the venue, the hotel which held the show, the drinks were awesome, all the staff were so nice, so accomodating, and everyone was helpful!! When I return to hawaii in june I plan to go again with my sons!! You would really enjoy this show, I highly recommend it!! The total experience was an unforgettable pleasure!!
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2017/05/13 |
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Great Dinner and Show
Reviewed by: Louise, Maryland, US, 2016/07/13The Rock-A-Hula Dinner and Show was a great event. I'm glad we included it in our vacation plans.
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| Attended as: | Families |
| Activity Date: | 2016/07/07 |
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Great show, backstage tour is less appealing
Reviewed by: Mike, 2015/08/14A little background: party was my wife and I, both 30 y/o. We attended this show with the green room and dinner package. The green room and backstage tour portion of the package was underwhelming and really quite boring. One note is that we took a souvenir picture with "Michael Jackson" which was given to us as part of the package as compared to others at the show who had to pay $25 for it. The tour consisted of us, two other couples, and someone who runs the show guiding us around backstage and sharing different behind the scenes info as well as showing us other bits of the production. After that it went to the dinner portion which was held in front of the stage for the hour preceding the show. The food included lobster first course, steak and fish second with veggies and mashed potatoes, then dessert and coffee, all wrapping up before the show started. The food was quite good, especially the steak (tenderloin if I remember correctly). The show, though a little corny, was quite good overall and definitely entertaining. I did not really care for the Lady Gaga portion but the Elvis and Michael Jackson was good overall as well as the fire dancer. One plus of the package was the seating given was right by the stage which gave a small opportunity for the performers to come down and interact with us (not much but a quick appearance) which made it nice when "Elvis" gave my wife his scarf. Overall the night itself was entertaining and the food was good, making the package worth what we paid.
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Activity Date: | 2015/08/07 |
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Legends in Concert
Reviewed by: Randy , 2014/03/11Was entertaining,a good family show to see. Performers had awesome voices.
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| Attended as: | Families |
| Activity Date: | 2014/03/05 |
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Great night out
Reviewed by: JDowdell, 2014/02/10Didn't attend the dinner so I can't speak on that but the show itself was excellent. Very entertaining
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| Attended as: | Friends |
| Activity Date: | 2014/01/30 |
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