Talk Story Archives - PCC Legacy

Elvis and his impact on PCC canoes

Few people realize that Elvis Presley helped shape one of the Polynesian Cultural Center’s most beloved traditions—the iconic canoe experience.
When Elvis filmed Paradise Hawaiian Style at the PCC in 1965, audiences around the world saw him cruise through the Center’s villages aboard a canoe, greeted by singing and dancing students. Combined with the romantic canoe scenes from his earlier film Blue Hawaii, Elvis helped popularize the image of Polynesian canoe rides as symbols of romance, celebration, and aloha.
As PCC attendance grew during the late 1960s, so did interest in using canoes for engagements and weddings. In 1968, Tufi and Luse Magalei are believed to have celebrated one of the Center’s earliest wedding-party canoe rides, beginning a tradition that would create cherished memories for generations of PCC families and guests.

Talk-story with Lokelani Lindsey

Read about Lokelani Lindsey, who previously danced with the CCH Polynesian Panorama group in Waikiki before joining the original PCC night show cast as a dancer.

Guided by Faith: Almay’s Journey to Purpose at the PCC

Guided by faith and shaped through unexpected trials, Almay Velasco’s journey from Cebu, Philippines, to the Polynesian Cultural Center reflects resilience, gratitude, and trust in God’s plan. As a student at Brigham Young University–Hawaii and a lead tour guide, Almay has faced life-changing storms, family hardship, and moments of uncertainty that deepened her faith and strengthened her desire to serve others. Through every challenge, she learned to embrace patience, remain open to God’s guidance, and lead with compassion—principles that now shape the way she creates meaningful experiences for guests from around the world.

Temple Service and Embracing ‘Ohana

Kalilimoku Sola August Hunt and Tuputausi May Asayo Hirata Hunt, Polynesian Cultural Center alumni, have been called to serve as president and matron of the Pago Pago American Samoa Temple. Their journey—from PCC service to Church and civic leadership—reflects a lifetime of faith, cultural pride, and devotion to helping others experience the blessings of the temple.

Faith, Formulas, and the Piano: The Journey of Kwun Sung “Ivan” Lee

Equally gifted at a piano and computer keyboard, Kwun Fung “Ivan” Lee blends faith, intellect, and innovation in remarkable ways. A BYU–Hawaii science and mathematics major, he balances research at the PCC with a passion for music. Guided by a patriarchal blessing, Ivan chose education over comfort—building systems that serve others while pursuing purpose beyond success.

Terrific PCC salesman never on the payroll

Laie Inn manager Craig Huish played a key role in promoting the Polynesian Cultural Center for 12 years.

From 16mm to Streaming: How PCC’S story of Aloha endures

Matuauto Steve Lāʻulu, Island Manager at the Polynesian Cultural Center, reflects on his journey from student employee to leader, shaped by culture, hard work, and opportunity. Featured in The Aloha Experiment (1978) and now witnessing Sharing Aloha (2025), Lāʻulu sees both films as testaments to cultural preservation and student empowerment. For him, the PCC is a living museum—one that preserves Pacific Island heritage while providing life-changing educational opportunities for students far from home.

Kupuna Aunty Dora Continued Hula Tradition

Aunty Dora, who was still dancing hula in her 80s, started learn from kumu Kela Millerʻs great-grandmother as a girl in Laie.

Combining Love for Hawaii, BYU-Hawaii and the PCC

Earl Cropper’s life reflects a deep connection to Hawaiʻi, education, and service. After serving a mission in Hawaiʻi (1962–64), he enrolled at Church College of Hawaii and worked in the early days of the Polynesian Cultural Center. A former student body president, Earl built a career and family in Utah while giving back generously through the Matthew Cowley Society, believing education transforms families, communities, and future generations.

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