Restored Hawaiian Hall Reopens In August

Honolulu, HI - Bishop Museum is pleased to announce the highly anticipated reopening of its historic Hawaiian Hall will take place on August 8, 2009.  The occasion will be commemorated with cultural protocol and celebration throughout the weekend (Saturday and Sunday, August 8th and 9th).  This historic moment is one that should not be missed.

This was the first renovation to Hawaiian Hall since it was founded in 1889.  The restoration included the hiring of the best in the field, including Honolulu architect Glen Mason of Mason Architects to restore the structure of the great hall; Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA), a world renowned museum design firm; and incorporating the expertise of Hawaiian scholars, cultural practitioners, and artists.  The result is a state of the art Museum that embodies a Native Hawaiian world view, layered in meaning and authentic in voice.

“The Hawaiian Hall of today showcases the continuity of the Hawaiian culture,” said Timothy Johns, President & CEO.  “It not only honors the past, but people who visit will see that many of Native Hawaiian practices of the past continue today.”

Hawaiian Hall will offer visitors deeper insights into Hawaiian culture and access to a record number of the Museum’s treasured collections, together with Hawaiian interpretation and perspectives.  Artifacts are displayed in ways that pay tribute to and respect their inherent power.  Over time, these artifacts will be rotated to ensure its proper care and display.

Each of the three floors in Hawaiian Hall will take visitors on a journey into a different realm.  The first floor is the realm of Kai Ākea which represents the Hawaiian gods, legends, beliefs, and the world of pre-contact Hawai‘i.  The second floor, Wao Kanaka, represents the realm where people live and work; focusing on the importance of the land and nature in daily life.  The third floor, Wao Lani, is the realm inhabited by the gods; here, visitors will meet the ali‘i through their own words, and learn about key moments in Hawaiian history.

Hawaiian Hall will undoubtedly be an inspiration to all who visit.  For updates on the reopening weekend schedule of events or for more information please visit www.bishopmuseum.org or call 847-3511.

-pau-