Brigham Young University–Hawaii and the Hula Preservation Society have joined together to restore video footage of Hawaiian greats from the 1980s. The footage has not been seen since the original performances and will be shown in a community presentation on Saturday, July 20, at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Between 1980 and 1989, there was a series of concerts held at Brigham Young University–Hawaii to highlight Hawaiian music, hula, composition, and scholarship. Due to the climate of Hawaii, the tapes have deteriorated. The Hula Preservation Society is working to digitalize all the footage for public access and educational opportunities.
Queenie Ventura Dowsett, respected hula dancer, will be present at the showing to honor her teacher Iolani Luahine. The footage also includes Alice Namakelua, Bill Ali‘iloa Lincoln, Sally Wood Naluai, Alvin Isaacs, Genoa Keawe, John K. Almeida, Kent Ghirard, Alex Anderson, Sol Bright, Kawai Cockett, Rachel Mahuiki, Blossom Clark, Olana Ai, and the Farden, Kanaka'ole, Beamer and Long ohanas.
Saturday, July 20Polynesian Cultural Center’s Hukilau Theatre (IMAX theatre)9-11 AM
Admission is free, but RSVP is required. If you are interested in going, RSVP to the Hula Preservation Society at workshops@hulapreservation.org or call (808) 247-9440 by Monday, July 15.