Since KBR’s inception, an extremely popular segment has been our “Kupuna Stories.” Traveling through various regions of the islands, we make a concerted effort to find, and “talk story” with kupuna (elders) from that region. This segment has evolved into a very special element within the show, offering historical and cultural texture found only in the voices of Na Kūpuna.
In the first 2 seasons of KBR, guests have included Kindy Sproat (N. Kohala), Auntie Pele Hanoa (South Point), and Auntie Mona Malani (Lāupahoehoe). Collectively, these - and many more - digitally-recorded sequences have been broadcast throughout Hawai‘i Nei and the world (via simulcast internet webstream) 760 times since Kama‘āina Backroads’ premiere in November 2006.
With the new Fall 2008 season of KBR, we are thrilled to announce the production of a brand new series of Kupuna Stories shot entirely in the Hawaiian Language (with English language subtitles). To more accurately reflect the essence of these stories, we’ve re-branded the segment with the title: “Ka Leo Hano” (Voices of Honor).
Additionally, we’re thrilled to announce the addition of special Ka ‘Ōlelo Hawai’i correspondent Kainani Kahaunaele. A respected scholar of the Hawaiian language, Kahaunaele is a Lecturer at the University of Hawai‘i – Hilo, and a Hoku Award-winning singer & songwriter. She is a former teacher with the ‘Āha Pūnanaleo, where she worked with a dedicated team of people on the development of educational curriculum utilized by Hawaiian Immersion school teachers throughout Hawai‘i nei.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Kama‘āina Backroads™ and capture the voices of our treasures – our Kupuna,” says Kahaunaele.
Perhaps the one most significant long-term value of KBR’s Ka Leo Hano is the creation of a permanent digital “home” for the unedited talk story sessions - the newly established interactive website kaleohano.org
Hawaiian Language segments are being shot on the islands of O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i, Lānai, Moloka‘i and Hawai‘i Island. These, along with English language Kupuna Stories, will now be easily accessible to the public worldwide at no cost.