POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER PRESENTS LINE UP OF CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS FOR 2006

Exciting Competitions and Activities Scheduled for the Whole Family to Enjoy

Laie, HI: The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is pleased to announce its line-up of cultural events for 2006, which promises to be bigger and better than ever with more opportunities to experience the Polynesian culture and spirit.

"We are excited to start gearing up for another year of cultural activities and competitions,” said Ellen Gay Dela Rosa, senior manager of special events and promotions at the PCC. “With the continued success of these events, we are bulking up our 2006 calendar this year with even more specials that both visitors and local residents can enjoy,"

Events planned for 2006 include the following:

• January 27:  E Luana Kakou Hawaiian Concert

The sounds of old and new Hawai‘i will resonate under one roof in celebration of the Hawaiian culture with local entertainers showcasing their skills.  

• January 28: Moanikeala Hula ‘Auana Dance Festival

Dancers young and old will share the spotlight and their talents in this annual exhibition paying tribute to one of La‘ie’s own kumu hula, the late Aunty Sally Wood Nalua‘i.

• February 14: Valentine’s Dinner Special

Love will fill the air on the starry-lit North Shore with the PCC’s romantic ambiance and dining specials.

• April 28-29: Annual Whakataetae Maori Song & Dance Festival

Come find out why the Maori were some of the most feared warriors in the Pacific, while watching the beauty of their people as they perform songs and dances of their culture.

• May 5: Lei Day Competition

May Day is Lei Day at the PCC where when lei makers from around the island display their colorful and fragrant handiwork in a lei exhibit that extends this special day through special celebration on May 1st through to the weekend.

• May 13: Mother’s Day Dinner & Dance       

Show your mom how much you love her and surprise her with a special outing to Oahu’s beautiful North Shore to enjoy dinner, music and dancing.

• May 18-20: The Samoa Festival

Enjoy exciting art, song and dance demonstrations as Hawai‘i High high School school groups show off their talents and understanding of the Samoan culture.

       14th Annual World Fireknife Dance Competition

Dare yourself to sit in the front row and experience the speed and skill of these true warriors as they defy danger while spinning fire-lit knives to vie for the title of world’s best.  Part of the Samoa Festival, this annual competition is a must-see.  Get your tickets early before they sell out!

• July 14-15: 6th Annual Te Mahana Hiro‘a ‘O Tahiti

The drums and dances of the islands of Tahiti are featured in this exciting celebration.  Keiki Tamari‘i (children) from around the islands will compete in the dance and drumming competition that draws both locals and visitors alike.

For more information on prices for each event, or to make reservations, please call 1-800-367-7060 or in Hawai‘i call 293-3333.  The events schedule is subject to change without notice, so guests are encouraged to call to confirm availability.

Founded in 1963 as a non-profit organization, the PCC has entertained more than 30 million visitors by preserving and portraying the spirit, culture and people of Polynesia to the rest of the world. More important is the mission of the PCC, which supports the educational mission of Brigham Young University-Hawai‘i and provides an extension of the classroom in a workplace setting.  Since its establishment, the PCC has employed more than 13,000 BYU-Hawai‘i students.  As a non-profit organization, 100 percent of the PCC’s revenue is used for daily operations and to support the students who earn their tuition, room and board, and books.  The PCC also provides significant financial support to elementary and secondary schools and to college students attending institutions of their choice besides BYU-Hawai‘i.

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