Hawaiian Voices: Bridging Past to Present

This award winning one-hour documentary by celebrated filmmakers Eddie and Myrna Kamae, pays tribute to the role of the Kupuna (elders) in preserving Hawaiian culture. It focuses on the legacies of three respected Hawaiian elders whose lives bridged the transition from older times into the late 20th century. They are Ruth Makaila Kaholoa'a, age 93, of the Big Island; Lilia Wahinemaika'i Hale, age 85 of O'ahu and Molokai; and Reverend David 'Kawika' Ka'alakea, age 78, of Maui. A special emphasis in the documentary is the power of Hawaiian language as a key to cultural connectedness and continuity. Each of these kupuna speaks Hawaiian fluently, as it was once learned within their families. Each is a living archive of invaluable lore and recollection, a treasure whose stories, memories and perspectives need to be shared as a way of bringing the healing wisdom.

Director: Eddie Kamae
Producer: Myrna Kamae
Producer: Rodney A. Ohtani
Actor: Kahu Ka'alalkea
Actor: Kaupena Wong
Actor: Lilia Wahinemaika'i Hale
Actor: Ruth Kaholoa'a
Actor: Eddie Kamae