New Immersive Experience Unveiled at the Polynesian Cultural Center
All-New Hawaiian Journey Theater Engages Viewers’ Senses
Laie, Hawaii – March 29, 2013 – Hawaiian Journey, the Polynesian Cultural Center’s (PCC) all-new immersive cinematic experience, opened to hundreds of eager community members at its grand opening this evening. Replacing the former IMAX theater, Hawaiian Journey brings to life the story of the people of Hawaii’s connection to the land and their ancestors.
With an exterior depicting a dormant volcano, Hawaiian Journey is a 12-minute experience, projected on one of the largest screens in the state. The journey transports guests into the gorgeous imagery on screen as they experience crashing waves, mystic valleys and powerful eruptions through interactive special effects that engage their senses.
“This new experience will take guests on a journey unlike anything offered in the Hawaiian Islands,” said Alfred Grace, President and CEO of the PCC. “Hawaiian Journey is a part of our five-year revitalization plan that began in 2011 and includes the Hawaii Village, which also opened this evening, the introduction of Go Native! hands-on activities, the renovation of Gateway restaurant in 2012 and the market place expansion currently underway.”
The grand opening of the newly renovated Hawaii Village featured a welcoming ceremony from all cultures represented at the PCC. The village redesign is reflective of an ahupuaa – a land division used by ancient Hawaiians, usually extending from the uplands to the sea – and includes new activities, architecture, exhibits and an expanded footprint. Two vital elements of Hawaiian life, loi kalo (irrigated terrace used to grow taro) and a loko ia (fish pond), have also been included.
The event concluded with a concert by local favorite Manao Company.
Both Hawaiian Journey and the Hawaii Village are included with general admission or any package that includes daytime activities. 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.
Celebrating 50 years in 2013, the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) was founded in 1963 as a non-profit organization, and has entertained more than 37 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 18,000 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.