WAILUKU — Maui Academy of Performing Arts is staging an original musical revue titled “Cages or Wings” on weekends through March 19.

This performance of popular songs and personal stories will feature Maui artists sharing moments inspired by their own lives. MAPA Artistic Director David C. Johnston began working late last year with a creative team that includes John Rowehl and Hoku Pavao, but as auditions came and went, the structure and theme of the show had yet to fully materialize.

“I asked the actors if they’d be willing to share a personal story or transformational moment,” said Johnston.

“These courageous actors stepped forward and shared some very intimate, some very funny, takes on their lives and loves. Out of that, we decided this was the theme of our show: these people’s stories.”

Many of the actors adapted their own stories to share in the show. Others’ stories became inspirations for song choices crafted into the overall performance.

Pavao explained the show’s title: “We all have moments when we’re torn between dark memories and a bright future. Cages or Wings — which do we prefer?”

The cast is made up of talented Maui artists Shane Borge, Barron Burton, Amber Fiedler, Stephie Garrett, Leighanna Locke (with daughter Amaya), Rachel Lockhart, Mehra Park and Francis Tau’a.

Seating is limited. For more information, visit mauiacademy.org Performances are held in MAPA’s Living Room at 2050 Main St., third floor, in Wailuku.