Molokai’s New Mango Theater Brings Movies (and More) Back to the Island

It’s been nearly 20 years since Molokai had a movie theater. That changed this year with the opening of the Mango Theater — a 45-seat, single-screen cinema located right in the heart of Kaunakakai. Complete with a full concession stand, two restrooms, and even an ʻOhana Bench that seats up to five, the Mango Theater brings something back that many of us have missed: a place to gather, unwind, and enjoy stories on the big screen — without ever leaving the island.

Brad Ellis and his wife, Grace Chen-Ellis, purchased the commercial property in 2017. Since then, they’ve worked steadily and thoughtfully to redevelop it into something that truly serves the Molokai community. The theater is part of the RWH Chen Building, which now includes office and retail spaces as well — but the vision for a theater was driven by their desire to create a space for families, keiki, and kūpuna to share moments together.

A Community-Centered Vision

The Mango Theater isn’t just about movies. It’s about connection. Living on Molokai has many blessings, but entertainment options are limited — and catching a movie has long meant working it into your schedule when traveling off-island. For working families, young people, and our older residents, that takes a lot of effort.

This theater changes that.

It offers first-run films from the major studios — the same ones showing in Honolulu or on the mainland — but right here at home. It offers comfortable seating, warm lighting, and the smell of popcorn popping that hits you as you first come through the door. And maybe most importantly, it offers a reason for us to come together.

Built by and for the Community

This wasn’t a quick project — and it wasn’t easy. It took over seven years to move from acquisition to opening night. The permitting and construction process involved countless steps, from upgrading sewer and water systems to navigating parking, electrical service, landscaping, and accessibility requirements. Nearly every aspect of the build was done by Molokai residents, which makes the finished product even more meaningful.

As a real estate agent with Hawai‘i Life and someone lucky enough to call this island home, I’ve been honored to be part of this journey. This was actually my very first real estate transaction — helping Brad and Grace purchase the property in 2017. What followed was a long but rewarding process, working together through planning, development, construction, and final inspections, to finally opening the doors.

It’s rare to see a commercial project of this scale come together in such a locally grounded way. The Mango Theater is a true team effort, brought to life through the professionalism, experience, and aloha of everyone involved — from the architectural firm I work for and contractors to the theater consultants and community members who shared their ideas and support.

“From the beginning of this project we wanted to make sure we were building something the entire local community would enjoy.  Because of the many talented craftsmen we have right here on Molokai and their hard work, we think we achieved that goal. The response from the community has been amazing.”
— Brad Ellis, Owner

“In just the few weeks we’ve been open we’ve been rewarded many times over seeing  all the families with several generations coming to the theater, and all leaving with big smiles on their faces. I love hearing the laughter coming from the theater. That alone has made the long effort to build it well worthwhile.”
— Grace Chen-Ellis, Owner

The Community Responds

Since opening, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Opening weekend was filled with excited families, date nights, and first-time moviegoers. For many kids on Molokai, this is their first experience seeing a movie in a real theater — a small thing that feels pretty big when you’re a kid.

Our Family’s Experience

Our family was no exception. That same weekend, we had the privilege of joining other community members who helped bring the theater to life for a special preview screening of Moana 2 — and to experience The Mango Theater firsthand.

For the very first time, right here on Molokai, my wife and I sat alongside our two oldest granddaughters in a real movie theater. Everyone was so excited, especially since going to the movies has always meant a trip to another island.

From the moment we walked through the doors, it was clear: this was the real deal. The smells, the sights, the sounds… Popcorn, candy, soda, hot dogs, even a slice of pizza from Molokai Pizza Cafe — all the little touches you’d expect at any big theater. But stepping inside and settling into the seats, it was almost hard to believe we now have all this right here at home.

Everyone had a fantastic time, and the girls loved every minute of it. As Kailee put it, “I’m so glad we have a movie theater we can go to here on Molokai.” Her cousin Saraiyah added, “Now we have another place we can go with our family to do something fun and be together.”

Looking Ahead

The Mango Theater is already expanding its reach with a website, www.themangotheater.com, that allows guests to reserve seats, order concessions, and even purchase gift cards, with the launch of their mobile app just around the corner. Looking ahead, the space may also be used for small performances, private events, and educational screenings — keeping the door open for future growth while remaining rooted in the needs of the community.

To Brad and Grace — Mahalo. For your commitment, your investment, and your patience. For bringing back something that had been missing for far too long. And for showing us all what’s possible when a vision is powered by heart, persistence, and a whole lot of local talent.