Liliʻuokalani wrote “a Hawaiian Historical Comic Opera” in three acts titled Mohailani under the name Madame Aorena (Digital Archives of Hawaiʻi, M93.01-3-35-200). While it is undated, the action takes place in the palace, and it appears to be written on reused paper from the year 1897. Notably, these lines of the Queen character mirror Liliʻuokalani’s own struggles:

“You were appointed Cabinet Ministers at your promises for a new Con—[stitution]” she is interrupted with, “we dare not, we dare not!” The Queen responds, “I have tried to do my best for my people and country—but since it is not to be, return to your homes and keep the peace.”

“I will try through parliament / To make right what was wrong.”

Explore the scanned manuscript of Liliʻuokalani’s Opera here.