When she arrived in Maui, Robyn Helzner was welcomed with the traditional Hawaiian-Jewish greeting--Shaloha! Although this was Robyn's fourth concert trip to Maui, it marked the first time that The Robyn Helzner Trio would perform for Maui's residents. The occasion was L'Chaim!98, a festival of art, music, and literature. The two-week long celebration, sponsored by The Jewish Arts and Education Council (JAEC), took place from May 24 to June 7, 1998. JAEC is a non-profit organization that sponsors artistic, cultural, and educational events for the Maui community.

Neophytes generally think of Hawaii as the land of grass skirts, coconuts, and Don Ho. In reality, Hawaii is a giant melting pot where various Asian, Oceanic, and Western cultures blend to create an exciting and vibrant culture. It is not surprising that Maui's 2,000 Jews would find a niche for themselves and contribute to the ethnic stew. Robyn's travels to Jewish communities in Beijing and Hong Kong show that one can find Jewish culture in many surprising places.

JAEC's L'Chaim festival began last year under the direction of president and founder Wendie Schwab. L'Chaim!97 exhibited artwork in a storefront at Maui's main shopping mall. Jewish artists from throughout the world participated.

JAEC's L'Chaim!98, a celebration of Israel's 50th anniversary, was a grander affair. In addition to the gallery exhibit in the mall, residents could attend workshops on creating your own midrash, discovering Hawaii's Japanese-Jewish Connection, or learning about Jewish influences on classical music.

The centerpiece of the festival was the June 4 concert, L'Chaim! Unplugged-The Soul of Jewish Music, billed as a concert with world Jewish musicians The Robyn Helzner Trio and Israeli pianist Sasha Toperich. The concert was held at the world-class Maui Arts & Cultural Center in the McCoy Studio Theatre.

Proper Hawaiian etiquette calls for opening events with a chant in the Hawaiian language. The chant is a combination welcome, prayer, and sanctification. State legislator Jo Kalani English performed the honors. To the surprise of many in the crowd, English revealed that his father was a Jewish immigrant from Russia.

JAEC's artistic director Sasha Toperich, National Public Radio's Best Debut Artist, opened the concert with a set of classical music favorites.

The Robyn Helzner Trio followed with a multilingual concert that enthralled the audience. "The beautiful music and Robyn's interpretations of her songs," said Lahaina's Melinda Gohn, "created an overwhelming joy and spirit that made for an unforgettable evening."

Robyn, Dov, and Mike have earned the respect and affection of Maui's Jewish community. JAEC has invited them back for L'Chaim!99, when again they will be welcomed with "Shaloha."