Heather Makalani's talent landed her the roles of Princess Jasmine in Aladdin, Sandy in Grease and various characters in Moulin Rouge.   Yona bred, Harvest educated and SKIP Entertainment Company-trained, Heather's made it all the way to Broadway, living her dreams. And she's put together a show with local friends in the local comedy, dance and music scene to give back to her island roots.

She told KUAM News, "To be able to make it in that industry, you have to be passionate about it. And so I think from a young age, I've always been just a very hyper-passionate person and I always try to bring just the love I have of people and animals and life into my characters."

And with no bad seats in the 500-chair Sandcastle Theater, Heather will be sharing her journey and speaking directly to everyone in attendance. "I wanted it to be kind of a conversation between me and the audience. It's going to be storytelling. I'm kind of doing um a story of my life through songs because I hope to inspire whoever decides to come and let them know that, you know, I came from here and if I can make it on Broadway, anyone else can!" she said. "Because Guam made me. I trained here."

Hers is a deeply personal tale told through movement, words, music and laughter that she's sharing to inspire young Guamanians and help care for our furry friends. Makalani continued, "Us as audience members, we love seeing people be passionate about something, and I think you'll be able to see my passion on stage, especially because it's for a great cause for Guam Animals In Need. And you know, that's something that's very near to my heart, because I have a boonie dog with me that I adopted from Guam. She lives in New York City with me. She's been backstage with me on Broadway. She's been on stage with me for some benefit concerts I've done. She's a star!"

And through it all, Heather's not forgotten where she comes from or the community that raised her.  And the crew that got her where she is. "The training I had at SKIP really taught me the value of being professional. You know, especially with the the touring company, we were all there. We were all committed to being there from 6 to 10pm everyday on a school night to practice and get ready for competition. We all had to be there at a certain time. We all had to train together," she recalled. "We all had to travel together to, you know, prepare for these competitions and work hours and hours and then seeing all that hard work pay off when we win and represent Guam. I think that was a huge effect on how I am as a performer today."

So come for the show, and feel the love this proud Chamorrita has for her home, welcoming the next generation to follow their dreams and join her on stage.