“Waterman” Documentary on Duke Kahanamoku: Screening + Conversation

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This program is part of , a film festival presented by the .

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Waterman – Duke: Ambassador of Aloha (2021, 88 min) tells the powerful life story of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku—Olympic champion and the father of modern surfing—whose influence helped shape global surf culture.

A Native Hawaiian born during the final years of the Hawaiian monarchy, Duke rose to international fame through his achievements as a swimmer, surfer, and lifesaver. Known for his humility and generosity, he inspired generations and helped bring surfing to the world stage.

Rooted in a long tradition of Native Hawaiian watermen, Duke carried forward a legacy of deep connection to the ocean—one that continues to resonate through contemporary surf culture and beyond.

A panel conversation and audience Q&A will follow the screening.

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Post-Screening Conversation

• Isaac Halasima (Director, Waterman)
• Billy Pratt (Associate Producer, Waterman; Board Member, Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation)
• Moderator: Jessica F. Skinner (Director or Advancement, Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center)

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Accessibility

The Warner Bros. Theater at the National Museum of American History is wheelchair accessible. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, live captioning, and assistive listening devices will be provided.

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Seating & Admission

Seating is limited and reservations are recommended. Priority seating will be given to registered Eventbrite attendees, followed by walk-in visitors. Admission is first come, first served, and entry will close once capacity is reached.

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Discover More Films in Visions & Voices: Stories on the Screen

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Sponsors

Visions & Voices: Stories on the Screen celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month and America’s 250th Anniversary.

This program received funding from the Smithsonian’s "Our Shared Future: 250," a Smithsonian-wide initiative supported by private philanthropy and created to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary and advance the Smithsonian vision for the next 250 years. Additional support provided by AARP.

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Notice of Photography

Programs in Visions & Voices: Stories on the Screen will be photographed, filmed, and recorded.

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