PROGRAM LISTINGS December 1 - December 7, 2013
Arts, Drama, Culture
Return to Downton Abbey
Sun., Dec. 1, 7:00 pm
New
Savor fond memories from the past three seasons of Downton Abbey and get a tantalizing taste of Season 4, premiering January 5, 2014. Academy Award-winning actress and devoted fan of the series Susan Sarandon hosts the program, which includes a mix of behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with creators and cast members and clips of favorite moments. The special is structured around three themes: "The Changing World of Downton Abbey;" "The Women of Downton Abbey;" and "Love and Other Relationships at Downton Abbey."
GREAT PERFORMANCES
Pavarotti: A Voice for the Ages
Sun., Dec. 1, 8:30 pm
New
Like Enrico Caruso before him, Luciano Pavarotti extended his presence far beyond the limits of Italian opera. Quickly establishing his rich sound as the great male operatic voice of the 20th century, he expanded his reach to stadium concerts and pop collaborations that brought him fame beyond measure. Even today, it is his powerful sound, with its natural grace and brilliant color that still leads many to consider him the world's greatest voice. Pavarotti brought opera to the masses and made fans worldwide fall in love with "Nessun dorma." This program includes that hit and other arias from La Bohème, Rigoletto and Aida; Neapolitan songs in arrangements by Henry Mancini, including "Mamma" and "O Sole Mio;" and popular duets with Bono, Sting, Vanessa Williams and Eric Clapton.
Songs of Joy: A PBS Hawaii Holiday Celebration
Mon., Dec. 2, 7:30 pm
New
Hawaiian Christmas medleys, original compositions and re-interpretation of a popular song are featured on this holiday special. These accomplished local artists offer their gifts of music: Manu Boyd; Ho'okena with Maila Gibson; Kuana Torres Kahele; Henry Kapono; Nina Kealiiwahamana with Aaron Salā; The Leo Nahenahe Singers; Gail Mack with Gordon Kim; and Peter Medeiros with Joshua Silva and Nate Stillman.
Il Volo Buon Natale
Mon., Dec. 2, 9:30 pm
New
Join the Italian vocal trio Il Volo to usher in the holiday season with performances of favorite Christmas classics. Filmed at the Fillmore Miami Beach, this new special features "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," "O Holy Night," "Jingle Bell Rock" and many more.
Na Mele Treasures III
Mon., Dec. 2, 11:00 pm
Encore
Robert Cazimero accompanies living treasures of Hawaiian music on the piano as they sing and tell the stories behind classic songs from the Hawaiian music canon. Recorded live at the PBS Hawaii studios, the program features beloved songbirds Emma Veary and Nina Kealiiwahamana, the legendary Mahi Beamer, Sunshine Beamer and surprise guest Danny Kaleikini. Robert Cazimero shares his incomparable vocal talents throughout the evening, and the entire ensemble is backed up by the Kawika Trask Trio.
LONG STORY SHORT WITH LESLIE WILCOX
Joy Abbott
Tues., Dec. 3, 7:30 pm
Encore
Leslie Wilcox talks with Joy Abbott, singer and widow of renowned stage producer George Abbott. Born and raised in Wahiawa, Oahu, Joy graduated from Punahou School. She attended Temple University in Philadelphia to study education, before pursuing a career in entertainment. In recent years, Abbott has written and directed several theater benefit galas, and is co-authoring a biography on George Abbott.
This program is available in high-definition and will be rebroadcast on Sun., Dec. 8 at 4:00 pm.
60s Pop, Rock and Soul
Tues., Dec. 3, 8:00 pm
Encore
Hosted by icons Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits and the late Davy Jones of The Monkees, this concert spectacular features hits and favorites of the AM radio era from Paul Revere & The Raiders, Gary Lewis & The Playboys, The Kingsmen, The Ventures, Question Mark & The Mysterians and Jefferson Starship. Every song is a classic from the decade of peace, love and profound social change - sung by performers who represent a period of time that resonates through the generations.
The Texas Tenors: You Should Dream
Tues., Dec. 3, 10:00 pm
New
Performing with members of the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra in Phoenix, Arizona, The Texas Tenors bring their own signature blend of breathtaking vocals, humor and cowboy charm to their first PBS special. The highest-ranking vocal group in the history of America's Got Talent, this versatile and talented trio — Marcus Collins, John Hagen and JC Fisher — smoothly blend great music from the worlds of country, folk, opera and Broadway.
The Texas Tenors' debut album Country Roots - Classical Sound soared to #1 on both classical and country Billboard charts in 2010. Their new album, You Should Dream, is devoted to the classical treatment of beloved country, Broadway and standard favorites and forms the basis for the show.
Rick Steves' Delicious Europe
Tues., Dec. 3, 11:30 pm
Encore
America's favorite travel guide Rick Steves savors classic European cuisine - from garlicky snails to savory bouillabaisse, hearty wurst and other regional specialties. He also dines on gourmet tapas in Galicia, visits a cozy trattoria in Rome, tastes the catch of the day in Greece and sips wines from ancient vines in Burgundy.
LEAHEY & LEAHEY
Wed., Dec. 4, 7:30 pm
New
Jim and Kanoa Leahey, Hawaii's father and son sports reporting duo, prove that the liveliest discussions happen with family and friends at the kitchen table. Join them as they talk story with special guests about "sports and other living things."
This program is available in high-definition and will be rebroadcast on Wed., Dec. 4 at 11:30 and Sun., Dec. 8 at 3:30 pm.
Elvis, Aloha from Hawaii
Wed., Dec. 4, 8:00 pm
Encore
Elvis Presley was at the pinnacle of his superstardom when he made television history in 1973 with this live concert special, televised globally via satellite. Now, 40 years later, don't miss one of the most outstanding concert performances of his career as Elvis sings "Suspicious Minds," "Hound Dog," "Blue Suede Shoes," "My Way," "I Can't Stop Loving You" and many more.
Carole King & James Taylor: Live at the Troubadour
Wed., Dec. 4, 9:30 pm
Encore
This concert special stars Carole King and James Taylor, filmed at their 2007 performances celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Los Angeles' famed Troubadour nightclub. At that club some 40 years ago, Taylor urged King to emerge as an artist from behind her piano, a seminal moment in the history of these pop singer-songwriter icons. King and Taylor perform 12 songs, including stunning performances of the pair's most beloved hits such as King's "So Far Away," "It's Too Late," and "Will You Love Me Tomorrow?" as well as Taylor's "Carolina in My Mind," "Sweet Baby James" and "Fire and Rain," to name just a few.
Grand Canyon Serenade
Wed., Dec. 4, 11:00 pm
Encore
This program presents a stunning visual portrait of the Grand Canyon set to the music of Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Bach, Vivaldi and Satie.
John Sebastian Presents: Folk Rewind
Thurs., Dec. 5, 8:00 pm
Encore
This special focuses on the greatest singers and songwriters of the classic 1950s and 1960s folk era. Presented by the lead singer of The Lovin' Spoonful ("Do You Believe In Magic"), the program features a treasure trove of historical footage that has not been seen in more than four decades, plus new performances by artists who are still appearing in concert today. Featuring Pete Seeger and Judy Collins singing "Turn, Turn, Turn," Harry Belafonte's hit "Jamaica Farewell," Trini Lopez's rendition of "If I Had a Hammer," Rod McKuen's classic "Seasons in the Sun," Bobby Darin's heartfelt "Simple Song of Freedom" and many more.
Rick Steves' European Christmas
Thurs., Dec. 5, 10:00 pm
Encore
Join Rick Steves for a colorful, musical celebration of Christmas across Europe. From England to Wales, France, Norway, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy, you'll see the bright Christmas markets, hear local choirs, share holiday traditions with families and even play in the snow.
Celtic Woman: Home for Christmas
Fri., Dec. 6, 9:00 pm
New
Celebrate the holidays with timeless favorites performed with a Celtic twist in this new chapter of musical enchantment from the enormously popular all-female ensemble. Vocalists Lisa Lambe, Susan McFadden, Méav Ni Mhaolchatha and Celtic violinist Máiréad Nesbitt perform timeless holiday favorites "Silent Night," "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" and "Joy to the World" with their signature Celtic twist. A visual and aural feast, this moving and festive celebration was filmed at Dublin's Helix Theatre.
GREAT PERFORMANCES
Rod Stewart: Merry Christmas, Baby
Fri., Dec. 6, 10:30 pm
Encore
Legendary rocker Rod Stewart's first solo holiday special, with songs produced by David "Hitman" Foster, features 13 classic songs. The set list includes "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "Auld Lang Syne," and duets with Michael Bublé ("Winter Wonderland"), Cee-Lo Green ("Merry Christmas, Baby"), Mary J. Blige ("We Three Kings") and even Ella Fitzgerald ("What Are You Doing on New Year's Eve?").
MEXICO: ONE PLATE AT A TIME WITH RICK BAYLESS
Puerto Escondido: Living the Dream
Sat., Dec. 7, 5:00 pm
New
The ninth season of Chef Rick Bayless' cooking and travel series explores the cuisine and culture of Oaxaca — Mexico's fifth-largest state.
Puerto Escondido: Living the Dream
Ever dream of renting a space with a kitchen in Mexico just so you can cook all the fresh fish you can eat? Rick lives the dream at Hotel Villas Carrizalillo in Puerto Escondido. First, he peruses the town market for inspiration and ingredients from heirloom tomatoes to the local tuxtla chiles. Then he joins a resident expert to take him spear fishing off Roca Blanca Playa for the freshest possible catch for his feast. And what a feast it is! Rick takes one robalo and turns it into an aguachile (a spicy ceviche appetizer), a brothy soup with chayote and beer, and pan-seared robalo with a tomatillo–pumpkinseed sauce.
SIMPLY MING
Michael Schlow and Basting
Sat., Dec. 7, 5:30 pm
New
This episode is all about basting, a technique chef's use that's great for home cooks too. Chef Michael Schlow cooks with Ming and shows that basting is as easy as a flick of the wrist. Cef Michael chooses fish as his lead ingredient and creates a delicious dish of halibut with mushrooms, quinoa and tomatoes. Chef Ming opts for pan-roasted duck with cranberry-fig sweet-and-sour sauce with noodle chow mein.
THE MIND OF A CHEF
British Classics
Sat., Dec. 7, 7:00 pm
New
This series combines travel, cooking, history, science and humor in an unforgettable journey. British-born Chef April Bloomfield owns and operates three restaurants in New York City — The Breslin, John Dory and Salvation Taco — and is in the process of opening Tosca in San Francisco, her first spot out of New York City. Over the course of eight episodes, watch her wrestle with the demands of opening a restaurant, test menu ideas, obsess over ingredients and techniques and cook with her mentors and contemporaries.
British Classics
Bangers and mash, fish-n-chips, and pies and more pies…these are some of the signature dishes of UK cuisine. In this episode, Chef April and friends prepare their versions of the classics. April eats on the streets of London and visits a classic London pie shop.
JOSEPH ROSENDO'S TRAVELSCOPE
Tokyo, Japan: Celebrating the Past and Present
Sat., Dec. 7, 7:30 pm
New
Joseph's senses are initially overwhelmed by Tokyo's idiosyncratic pop culture, flashy neon-lights, billboards and hoards of people. Later, as the episode unfolds, temples, natural beauty and positive personal interactions take over. On his Tokyo journey, Joseph learns that while the glitz and glamor of modern Tokyo excites the senses, the heart and soul of the Japanese people is found in their customs and traditions.
Doo Wop Love Songs
Sat., Dec. 7, 8:00 pm
Encore
The 50s and doo wop love songs go hand-in-hand, like two straws and a milkshake. And now America's favorite malt shop memories are back with this doo wop collection for lovers only. Hosts Jerry Butler and Cousin Brucie Morrow bring back the backseat ballads in this PBS celebration of great vocal groups. Recorded in May 2007 at the Ritz Theatre in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the program features performances by the Tokens, Cleveland Still & the Dubs, Little Anthony and the Imperials, Larry Chance and the Earls and a reunion of the original Drifters (Ben E. King, Charlie Thomas, Bobby Hendricks and Bill Pinkney).
Home for Christmas: The Chris Mann Christmas Special
Sat., Dec. 7, 10:00 pm
New
Unwrap this special holiday treat from vocalist Chris Mann. Joined by country icon Martina McBride and saxophone star Mindy Abair, Mann brings new life to Christmas classics including "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "O Holy Night" and "O Come, All Ye Faithful."
AUSTIN CITY LIMITS
Bob Mould/Delta Spirit
Sat., Dec. 7, 11:00 pm
Encore
ACL showcases alternative rock with Bob Mould and Delta Spirit. Punk veteran Mould showcases cuts from his acclaimed record Silver Age, while young bucks Delta Spirit highlight their self-titled LP.
Public Affairs
MOYERS & COMPANY
Sun., Dec. 1, 5:00 pm
New
Bill Moyers presents MOYERS & COMPANY, a weekly hour of compelling and vital conversation about life and the state of American democracy, featuring some of the best thinkers of our time. A range of scholars, artists, activists, scientists, philosophers and newsmakers bring context, insight and meaning to important topics. The series also occasionally includes Moyers' own timely and penetrating essays on society and government.
HIKI NŌ
Thurs., Dec. 5, 7:30 pm
Encore
This episode of HIKI NŌ is hosted by Kapaa High School on Kauai.
Students from Kamehameha Schools Maui Middle report on a group of volunteers who are reconstructing an ancient Hawaiian fishpond sea wall in Kihei. The volunteers are using the same process used by the thousands of ancient Hawaiians who built the original—using stones from the area and hand stacking them one stone at a time. The fishpond was originally built for Hawaiian alii (royalty). Once completed, the restored fishpond will be used as a model for the sustainable use of natural resources.
Students from Kalaheo High School tell the story of a young teacher at their school who feels that her childhood dream of becoming a teacher was fulfilled because she attended the college of her choice and because she and her parents had a plan for financing her college tuition. Although she is still considerably in debt with outstanding student loans, she has no regrets and feels she and her parents made the right choices.
Also featured: Mililani Middle School on Oahu reports on a Hawaii organization that helps women filmmakers get established; Molokai High School students present a profile of a teacher at their school who was told early on in life that he would never amount to anything and went to college to prove his naysayers wrong; students from Sacred Hearts Academy on Oahu show us how to hike safely; students from Ka Waihona o ka Naauao in Nanakuli paint a portrait of Hawaii-born-and-raised chef Mark Kaahaaina, the owner/operator of Kaahaaina Café in Waianae; and students from Waiakea High School in Hilo tell the story of a Thai immigrant whose success with her restaurant business has enabled her to move her children to Hilo to live with her.
This program encores Saturday, Dec. 7 at 12:30 pm and Sunday, Dec. 8 at 3:00 pm. You may also view HIKI NŌ episodes on our website, www.pbshawaii.org/hikino
WASHINGTON WEEK WITH GWEN IFILL
Fri., Dec. 6, 7:30 pm
New
For 40 years, WASHINGTON WEEK has delivered on of the most interesting conversations of the week. Hosted by Gwen Ifill, it is the longest-running public affairs program on PBS and features a group of journalists participating in roundtable discussion of major news events.
CHARLIE ROSE - THE WEEK
Fri., Dec. 6, 8:00 pm
New
This weekly series features the iconic TV anchor's focus on the events and conversations shaping this week and the week ahead. Drawing on conversations from his nightly PBS program and new insightful perspectives from around the world, it captures the defining moments in politics, science, business, culture, media and sports.
THE MCLAUGHLIN GROUP
Fri., Dec. 6, 8:30 pm
New
THE MCLAUGHLIN GROUP is an unscripted forum featuring some of the greatest political analysts in the nation.
Science and Nature
CHANGING SEAS
Coral Hybrids
Sun., Dec.1, 10:00 pm
New
This series takes viewers on exciting adventures into the heart of our liquid planet, offering a look at how oceanographers, scientists and experts uncover new information that could lead to breakthroughs in medicine and alternative energy. It also sheds light on how over-fishing, global climate change and pollution threaten the health of this precious natural resource.
Coral Hybrids
While Elkhorn and Staghorn corals undergo a drastic decline in the Caribbean, their hybrid, Fused Staghorn, flourishes in parts of the region. Follow one scientist studying the animals in Belize to see why the hybrid seems better equipped to deal with environmental stressors than its parents.