Late Night: Aloha - The Art of Storytelling

Join us for Pitt Rivers Museum's 'Late Night: Aloha - The Art of Storytelling' and enjoy an evening of creativity and connection.

'Aloha' is a profound concept that transcends its common recognition as a simple greeting or farewell and its Western commercialisation. It embodies a way of life, a philosophy that centres on our interconnectedness with nature and all living things in the Hawaiian universe.

As Manaola Yap, a Hawaiian fashion designer and cultural practitioner, beautifully expresses: "'Aloha' is about our storytelling, our connectivity to nature, and the understanding that everything in our universe is a part of us and we are a part of it." This exchange allows Indigenous artists and all people to share, receive and engage in 'Aloha', underlining the shared responsibility we have toward each other and our environment. 'Aloha' teaches us that even those who are not Hawaiian can partake in this embrace, as it represents a full acceptance of ourselves and our place in the universe. It reminds us that while we are but small parts of a vast cosmos, our actions and connections matter.

Join us for an enchanting evening as we explore these themes through the art of storytelling, weaving together voices from different backgrounds to create a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange.

Immerse yourself in dance with our hands-on Hula and 'Ori Tahiti Dance workshops led by skilled instructors from the London School of Hula and 'Ori. Whether you're a novice or looking to improve your technique, there's a session for you!

Watch a film screening of the compelling short film 'Tales of Tusitala', in which four students at the National University of Samoa investigate the legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson. Join a post-screening Q&A session with filmmaker Dan Lin and scholars Michelle Keown and Shari Sabeti from the 'Remediating Robert Louis Stevenson in the Pacific' project.

Join esteemed Hawaiian artist Solomon Enos in creating a collaborative artwork that celebrates Hawaiian quilting and storytelling traditions. All materials provided!

Immerse yourself in culture in our Robert Louis Stevenson and Princess Ka'iulani Poetry Corner.

Engage with the historical relationship between Robert Louis Stevenson and Princess Ka'iulani through literature. Receive a complimentary block print featuring Stevenson's poem dedicated to the princess.

Explore our exciting pop-up shop featuring stunning kapa (barkcloth) jewellery created by Pūko’a Studios, founded by Native Hawaiian artist Page Chang. Committed to perpetuating Hawaiian culture with authenticity and integrity, Pūko’a Studios emphasizes sustainability by observing the Hawaiian values of aloha ‘āina (loving the earth), mālama ‘āina (caring for the earth), and ike kupuna (honoring ancestral knowledge). This family-run business not only strives to reduce its environmental footprint but also educates the community about these vital practices and values. Using native Hawaiian plants and sustainable growing practices, each piece is crafted to reflect these principles. When native materials are not available, only natural, organic, and locally sourced materials are utilized, ensuring ethical production and shipping practices.

Enjoy a soundtrack of Hawaiian and Pacific Islander music throughout the evening, whilst enjoying drinks from the Tap Social Bar!