PACIFIC HEARTBEAT, now in its tenth season, is an anthology series that provides viewers with a glimpse of the real Pacific – its people, cultures and contemporary issues. The series features a diverse array of programs that will draw viewers into the heart and soul of Pacific Island culture.
EPISODE GUIDE:
Episode 1: “The Australian Dream” airs Tuesday, May 11 at 11 p.m. - This episode unravels the remarkable and inspirational story of Indigenous AFL legend Adam Goodes to tell a deeper and more powerful story about race, identity and belonging. The film unpacks the events of the 2013-15 AFL seasons and asks fundamental questions about racism and discrimination in society today. Watch now
Episode 2: “For My Father's Kingdom” airs Tuesday, May 18 at 11 p.m. on KPBS TV - This episode follows Tongan pensioner Saia Mafile’o and his family as they are stretched to breaking point by the commitment and passion to God that has driven Saia’s life. This debut feature documentary offers a rich view of how contemporary secular families deal with the rigors of devout Christian tithing, as well as a unique insight into traditional Tongan culture. Watch now
Episode 3: “Stan” airs Tuesday, May 25 at 11 p.m. on KPBS TV - This breathtakingly honest and brave documentary follows 26-year-old musician Stan Walker as he fights a rare cancer caused by a genetic mutation that has killed 25 members of his family. Facing his diagnosis with humor and determination, he embarks on a mission to seek aggressive treatment and convince his family members who carry the gene that they need to face their potential fate.
NOTE: Schedule changes to 6 a.m. on KPBS 2 for episodes 4-6 or stream with the PBS Video App:
Episode 4: “Tokyo Hula” airs Tuesday, June 1 at 6 a.m. on KPBS 2 - Today it is estimated there are nearly 2 million people dancing hula in Japan – a figure greater than the entire population of Hawai‘i. The film examines how tourism, economics, and a love for all things Hawaiian have fueled this cultural phenomenon by focusing on the personal stories of Japanese teachers who have started their own schools and Hawaiian master teachers who are now living and teaching in Japan.
Episode 5: “American Aloha: Hula Beyond Hawai’i” airs Tuesday, June 15 at 6 a.m. on KPBS 2 - This episode tells the stories of three kumu hula (master instructors) who direct hula schools based in California. The film explores the challenges they face trying to perpetuate hula faithfully, from the very traditional to the contemporary, as it evolves on distant shores. Their stories serve as a reminder of the power of tradition for communities creating a home away from home.
Episode 6; “Na Kamalei: The Men of Hula” airs Tuesday, June 22 at 6 a.m. on KPBS 2 - The role of male hula dancers has long been overshadowed by Western concepts of gender and sexuality. This episode follows a group of male dancers, who range in age from 18 to 55 years old, as they prepare to compete in the largest hula competition in the world, the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Through the lens of dance, this film explores the meaning of Hawaiian pride and the role of men in Hawaiian culture.
Watch On Your Schedule:
With the PBS Video App, you can stream your favorite and local station shows. Download it for free on your favorite device. The app allows you to catch up on recent episodes and discover award-winning shows.
Credits:
A production of Pacific Islanders in Communications in partnership with PBS Hawaiʻi, and distributed by American Public Television.
