Polynesian Cultural Center Says “Talofa” to its New Island Luau
PCC Welcomes All to its Family-Style Outdoor Samoan Luau
New Luau Offer Also Includes Admission to Seven Polynesian Villages,
Hands-on Activities, New Hawaiian Journey Theater Experience and Reserved Seating at Ha: Breath of Life Evening Show
Laie, Hawaii – April 24, 2013 – The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) announced today its Island Luau, a brand new luau experience centered around the Samoan culture. The Island Luau debuts May 20 and, at no extra cost, includes interactive guest activities, the new Hawaiian Journey interactive theater presentation, Ha: Breath of Life evening show and admission to all seven island villages represented at PCC.
Located in the native outdoor setting of the Samoan Village at the PCC, the Island Luau is hosted by the Samoan Village’s “Senior Ambassador”, Kap Teo Tafiti, recognized by many guests for his humorous dialogue and audience interaction. The interactive luau will have guests participating in fun activities like basket and coconut plate weaving and coconut shell dancing. Entertainment will also feature keiki fireknife dancers and songs and dances dedicated to the coconut tree, an important icon in Samoan culture.
“We are pleased to offer an affordable luau experience that includes a wide variety of activities and experiences the whole family can enjoy,” said Alfred Grace, President and CEO of the PCC. “Our Island Luau offers guests the opportunity to learn about several Polynesian cultures, particularly the Samoan and Hawaiian cultures, in a more personalized setting where everyone is encouraged to kick back, relax and enjoy our luau food, entertainment and activities.”
Presided over by the Samoan Chief’s Court, guests are welcomed to the Island Luau with a shell lei greeting and are able to enjoy Samoan versions of popular luau songs, such as the Hawaiian Wedding Song, and Samoan dishes coupled with popular Hawaiian luau foods, including a roasted pig.
The Island Luau runs Mondays – Saturdays from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in the Samoan Village. Introductory promotional prices start at $74.95 for adults and $57.95 for children ages 5-11. Kamaaina can enjoy this experience for 20 percent off the promotional price, or $59.96 for adults and $46.36 for children ages 5-11. In addition to the lu’au, prices include the following:
Entry to all seven island villages of Fiji, Samoa, Hawaii, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Tahiti, Tonga and Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
Access to all Go Native! activities available at the villages, including coconut tree climbing, wooden spear throwing, canoe paddling and Polynesian cooking
Viewing of Hawaiian Journey, the all-new cinematic experience
Reserved seating at the Ha: Breath of Life evening show
The all-new Hawaiian Journey presentation is a 14-minute cinematic extravaganza that brings to life the story of the people of Hawaii’s connection to the land and their ancestors. Housed in a volcano and projected on one of the largest screens in the state, Hawaiian Journey transports guests into gorgeous imagery of Hawaii, made real with special effect movements, sounds and smell. The recently renovated Hawaii Village redesign is reflective of an ahupuaa – a land division used by ancient Hawaiians, usually extending from the uplands to the sea – and includes a Hale Alii (chief’s house), new activities, architecture and exhibits.
The PCC is open Monday through Saturday, and is closed on Sundays. 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.