From humble beginnings to historic leadership, William H. Cravens left a lasting legacy at the Polynesian Cultural Center and beyond. Discover the story of a man whose love for culture, community, and faith shaped generations — and helped build the foundation of the PCC we know today.
Jack and Kit Regas lived a life of love, legacy, and light—from Hollywood stages to sacred callings, touching thousands through dance, faith, and family. A 71-year love story that still echoes, tap shoes in hand.
Allan Barcarse, a Church College of Hawaii alumnus and one of the original Polynesian Cultural Center dancers, left a legacy that spanned continents. From learning Japanese on his mission to sharing Hawaiian culture across Asia, Latin America, and Europe, his life was a powerful blend of faith, performance, and education.
Larry G. Nielson, the Polynesian Cultural Center’s very first stage manager in what is now the Hale Aloha, brought an impressive list of talents with him when he became one of the PCC’s earliest employees in 1962.
Tekura Tamatoa Traill, a proud Cook Islander raised in Auckland, New Zealand, recently graduated from BYU–Hawaii and returned home after four transformative years working at the Polynesian Cultural Center. From learning Māori dance for the first time to meeting global friends—and even her husband—her journey reflects the deep cultural and personal growth made possible through the IWES program.
At just 14, Derek Kalima Foley was hustling behind the scenes at the Polynesian Cultural Center — from steaming dish pits with his Kahuku High buddies to sprinting down theater steps with trays of Pineapple Deelites. Discover how this local Laie boy turned hard work into unforgettable memories during the PCC’s busiest years in the 1990s.
Still climbing 50-foot coconut trees in his 50s, Kap Te’o-Tafiti is more than just muscle and charm. A beloved ambassador of the Polynesian Cultural Center, Kap is a witty teacher of Sāmoan culture, a dedicated vegetarian, and a talented artist. Learn the surprising and inspiring story behind one of PCC’s most iconic cultural figures.
Vice President of Human Resources John Muaina recently represented the Polynesian Cultural Center as he and his wife, Luella, toured China with BYU–Hawaii President Eric B. Shumway, his party and the university’s Concert Choir for three weeks to celebrate the successful completion of 25 years of BYUH/PCC’s unique Asian Executive Management (AEM) internship training program.
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