Polynesian Cultural Center has its roots in the hukilau

By Bob Sigall

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Oct 14, 2011

~~<p>The Polynesian Cultural Center opened 48 years ago this week on Oct. 12, 1963, but its roots go even deeper, to the hukilau in Laie, and a singing group in Waikiki called the Polynesian Panorama.</p>
<p>In 1940 the Mormon chapel in Laie was destroyed by fire. Viola Kehau Kawahigashi thought a hukilau -- a fishing festival with a luau and Polynesian entertainment -- could help raise funds to rebuild the church. Their first hukilau was held in 1948. Two hundred fifty people paid $5 each, and $1,250 was raised.</p>
~~

The Polynesian Cultural Center opened 48 years ago this week on Oct. 12, 1963, but its roots go even deeper, to the hukilau in Laie, and a singing group in Waikiki called the Polynesian Panorama.

In 1940 the Mormon chapel in Laie was destroyed by fire. Viola Kehau Kawahigashi thought a hukilau -- a fishing festival with a luau and Polynesian entertainment -- could help raise funds to rebuild the church. Their first hukilau was held in 1948. Two hundred fifty people paid $5 each, and $1,250 was raised. Login for more...