Joshua "Baba" Tavares (he/him) is a prominent Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) actor, singer, dancer, writer, director and educator based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. He's on the verge of completing his MFA in Acting and Hana Keaka (Hawaiian Theatre) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Known for his standout performance as Angel in the 20th Anniversary National Tour of the Broadway musical RENT, he's also a pioneer in Hawaiʻi's theatre scene, originating captivating roles and creating groundbreaking original works including: Haku Wale and Glitter in the Paʻakai. He was hand selected to join the inaugural ICAN acting cohort in Hawaiʻi, working closely with renowned Polynesian actors including Cliff Curtis, Alex Tarrant and Rena Owen (to name a few). He also walked in New York Fashion week with Dezigns by Kamohoaliʻi. It has been recently announced that he will be the new Assistant Professor of Acting at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa starting in the Fall of 2024. Baba is a dedicated advocate for the performing arts and Hawaiian culture and his unwavering commitment to his craft and community shines both on stage and screen. Mahalo!