Polynesian Cultural Center’s Documentary Sharing Aloha Honored With “Audience Choice Award” At The Asian American & Pacific Islander Houston Film Festival
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2025 – Lā‘ie, Hawai‘i – The Polynesian Cultural Center’s feature documentary Sharing Aloha has been named the Audience Choice Award winner at the prestigious Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Houston Film Festival, recognizing the film’s moving storytelling and heartfelt celebration of Polynesian culture and community.
Voted on by festival attendees, the Audience Choice Award honors the film that most deeply resonates with viewers. Sharing Aloha captivated audiences with its powerful portrayal of the Polynesian Cultural Center’s 60-year mission to preserve, share, and perpetuate the living traditions of Polynesia through education, performance, and the spirit of aloha.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Audience Choice Award,” said Alfred Grace, President and CEO of the Polynesian Cultural Center. “This recognition reflects the universal message of aloha that continues to inspire people from all walks of life. It’s a testament to our students, staff, and alumni who live that spirit every day.”
Sharing Aloha was created in collaboration with Treu Entertainment, an award-winning team dedicated to telling authentic stories of cultural connection and human resilience. The film offers an intimate look into the lives of those who make the Polynesian Cultural Center a uniquely transformative place — where cultural pride, education, and community come together in powerful harmony.
“This award is especially meaningful because it came directly from the audience,” said Blair Treu, producer and director of Sharing Aloha. “It shows how deeply the story of aloha resonates beyond Hawai‘i — it’s a spirit that unites, heals, and uplifts, no matter where you are.”
Following its theatrical release across the U.S. Mainland, Hawaiian Islands, and Pacific Rim on August 29, Sharing Aloha will soon be available for streaming on Amazon Prime. To learn more about the documentary and view the official trailer, visit www.sharingalohathemovie.com.
ABOUT POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER
Located on O‘ahu’s beautiful North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is the only cultural attraction of its kind in the world and a favorite of both locals and visitors to Hawai‘i. An engaging, interactive celebration showcasing the people, culture, arts and crafts of Polynesia, the PCC has entertained millions of visitors from around the world since opening in 1963. A non-profit organization, 100 percent of PCC’s revenue goes to daily operations and to support the education of its student-employees from neighboring Brigham Young University-Hawaii. For more information, visit www.Polynesia.com.
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Shere’e Quitevis
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Sheree.Quitevis@FinnPartners.com