NEW INTERACTIVE THEATER EXPERIENCE COMING TO THE POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER THIS FALL

Immersive Experience to Engage Viewers’ Sense of Sight, Sound, Smell and Feel

Laie, Hawaii – April 19, 2012 – The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is erupting in a fervor of activity as it transforms its Hukilau Theater into Hawaii’s newest theater experience in the form of a volcano. Expected to open in the fall of this year, the theater is being completely overhauled with substantial improvements to both the exterior and interior with the biggest upgrade resulting in a new, immersive presentation, that will engage viewers’ sense of sight, sound, smell and feel.

This new experience will take guests on a journey unlike anything offered in the Hawaiian Islands. Majestic mountains, roaring waterfalls, lush forests and imposing volcanoes – many only accessible by air – are all brought to life through astounding cinematography and customized special effects that tantalize the viewers’ senses. The narrated film plunges guests deep into the story of Hawaii, both past and present, as stunning vistas provide breathtaking backdrops on one of the state’s largest movie screens.

“Our film crews did a spectacular job capturing Hawaii’s diverse landscapes; everything from iconic white sand beaches to alluringly desolate lava flows can be seen in stunning clarity. Now, we’re taking those amazing shots and bringing them to life!” said Alfred Grace, chief operating officer at the PCC. “We’ve brought in a team of special effects specialists to create the most immersive experience in Hawaii. Guests will be able to feel the power of a volcano and the mists of a roaring waterfall and even smell sweet floral scents without leaving their seat.”

Once complete, the theater’s exterior will portray a dormant Hawaiian volcano with the structural fortitude to match. The interior will also be redone featuring new digital projectors, special effects apparatuses, theatrical lighting systems and all new seating.

This new experience is part of PCC’s five-year enchancement that started in 2011. Last year, PCC unveiled four new “Go Native!” activites, renovated the Marquesas exhibit and opened Gateway, a new, 24,400-square-foot dinning and special events venue. Along with these new activities and presentations, PCC’s plans for 2012 include the introduction of additional “Go Native!” activities and renovations to Hawaii and Samoa as well as Hale Aloha – home of the world famous Alii Luau.

For more information or to make reservations, visit Polynesia.com, or call the PCC ticket office at (800) 1-844-572-2347 . On Oahu, call 293-3333.

Founded in 1963 as a non-profit organization, the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) has entertained more than 36 million visitors, while preserving and portraying the culture, arts and crafts of Polynesia to the rest of the world. In addition, the PCC has provided financial assistance to nearly 17,000 young people from more than 70 different countries while they attend Brigham Young University-Hawaii. As a non-profit organization, 100 percent of PCC’s revenue is used for daily operations and to support education.