Our experienced Italian teachers offer private lessons during the course breaks, tailored to help you catch up or move forward with your Italian. All teachers are native Italian speakers, hold Italian university degrees, and bring solid teaching experience. Design lessons that suit your goals and interests, from conversational skills to advanced grammar.
Flexible Topics & Format: Customize your lessons by choosing the topics, learning format (in-person or online), and setting (indoors, outdoors, walks, even the beach!).
Rates: $60 per hour for individual lessons. Discounts for groups: $50 per person/hour for two students; $40 per person/hour for three students. Directly to the teacher.
Duration: Minimum three-lesson commitment, paid in advance as a package.
Location: Lessons available in Honolulu, Hawaii Kai, or online, with ample neighborhood parking options.
Optional Book: "Italian Grammar in Practice" by Susanna Nocchi (2022, interactive ebook version available). Purchase online from Alma Edizioni, Libreria Pino, or other retailers. Dates: March 11-31, June 3-July 9, November 5-January 5
Note: Lesson arrangements, including scheduling and cancellations, are directly managed between student and tutor. The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii assumes no responsibility for any liability, costs, or damages related to these private lessons, and refunds are not available.
Questions: Contact us at info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
Join our membership so you can attend our language courses! All Italy lovers are welcome! Learn Italian through contemporary culture: the latest music, cinema, literature, fashion, science, and much more! At home, you will study the textbook, complete the exercises, and review a cultural assignment. In class, we will go over a few exercises and mainly focus on conversation. You will have the opportunity to contribute comfortably to group discussions, based on your interests and passions, learning from both teacher and peers. Immerse yourself in Italian culture while building language skills in a supportive and engaging environment! REGISTRATION: Required. Max 12 students, classes often sell out, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. All students must be members, no guests are allowed, not even for Dual members. DATES: Eight Tuesdays. Pizza party optional on October 14 (no class). LEVELS: Sign up for the class that you think fits you best. On the first day of class, you can try other levels and change class if you wish. In addition to your level, you can also audit other levels throughout the whole course (listening only, no talking).
BOOK: “Italian grammar in practice” with interactive ebook by Susanna Nocchi (2022, English edition). You can find it at Alma Edizioni, Libreria Pino, and other websites. The paper copy includes an interactive e-book which allows you to access all contents, audio files, and exercises with self-correction online. PARKING: First Unitarian Church of Honolulu, 2500 Pali Highway, Honolulu. Abundant free parking on site. INSTRUCTOR: Chiara Logli is originally from Bologna (Italy) and holds a Ph.D. in international/cross-cultural education from the University of Hawaii and East-West Center. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor and Institutional Assessment Specialist for the Honolulu Community College. In the past, she worked for the University of California Berkeley's International House, University of California Santa Barbara's Multicultural Center, Arts Council for Monterey County, and USAID in Indonesia. She also received the Peace Fellowship from Rotary International in Thailand and collaborated with UNICEF, UNDP, as well as International Baccalaureate Schools. She started teaching Italian language when she was 23 years old and never stopped, including for the Dante Alighieri Society in Santa Cruz and the Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco. In her free time, she dances hula with Hālau Kaulakahi, loves the ocean, and enjoys traveling by boat around small islands or by foot on high mountains. NOTE: *All students must be members, no guests are allowed, not even for Dual members.* The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds, except if it cannot deliver the program, for instance in the case of insufficient enrollment. QUESTIONS: Please contact info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
Come sail with the FOISH on a relaxing and fun afternoon cruise on the Kale O Kalani (a Hawkfarm 27ft sail boat)! We’ll depart from Ala Wai Harbor Slip D-51 aboard a private sailboat and head to the legendary La Mariana Sailing Club, known for its vintage tiki vibes, waterfront views, and tropical drinks. After some libations, we will return by sailboat to Ala Wai Harbor.
You can choose to sail with us on the outbound leg, to La Mariana, or the return leg, to Ala Wai Harbor, or both - roundtrip. If you prefer not to sail, you can join us for eating, drinking and socializing at La Mariana.
This is a casual social outing—perfect for making new friends, soaking in ocean views, and enjoying good company! We will take some time to learn and practice nautical terms in Italian during the cruise.
Sail options:
Schedule:
Cost: You’ll cover the cost of your food, drinks, and Uber; please bring cash to help speed up transactions. The sailing portion is generously donated by our Board member.
Confirmation: Registered guests will receive an email with a map and instructions prior to the event.
Cancellation: If you need to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible. Space is limited and we can accommodate members on the waiting list if notified in time.
Parking: Paid and free parking at Ala Wai Harbor. Free parking at La Mariana. You will need to make arrangements with other participants, ride share, family or friends, to recover your car if you sail only one direction.
*Event is subject to rescheduling for weather.
Note: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds, credits, swaps, except if it cannot deliver the program, for instance in the case of insufficient enrollment.
The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii, Honolulu Museum of Art, and the Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco are excited to present the 2025 Italian Film Festival at HoMA Doris Duke Theatre in Honolulu on November 21-23. Join us for a weekend of Italian cinema, community, and cultural celebration! The three-day festival offers a curated selection of contemporary award-winning films from Italy—in Italian language with English subtitles. Enjoy post-screening discussions, savor authentic Italian aperitivi, and connect with fellow Italy enthusiasts in a culturally vibrant and fun community event. All films are open to the public. Join the FOI membership to receive exclusive invitations to the opening reception and discounts for all films. Follow our emails, social media, and website for film announcements and ticket sale updates. SCHEDULE at HoMA
Friday, 11/21: Napoli-New York (Naples to New York), Gabriele Salvatores, 2024, Trailer5:00 PM: Reception for Friends of Italy members7:00 PM: Film, followed by discussionA long-lost story by Federico Fellini and Tullio Pinelli—rediscovered decades later and brought to the screen by Oscar-winner Gabriele Salvatores. In post-WWII Naples, orphaned children Carmine and Celestina survive the rubble-strewn streets by leaning on each other. One night, they stow away on a ship bound for New York, chasing the hope of a better life in a strange new land. A sweet and heartwarming way to kick off our festival weekend.
Click here to purchase your ticket for Napoli-New York!
Saturday, 11/22: Diamanti (Diamonds), Ferzan Özpetek, 2024, Trailer6:00 PM: Aperitivo for all ticket holders7:00 PM: Film, followed by discussion Özpetek brings together his favorite actresses in a tribute to friendship, artistry, and iconic Italian cinema. Amid loneliness, passion, and unbreakable bonds, reality and fiction intertwine, as do the lives of the actresses and their characters, the visible and the invisible. Inspired by Rome’s tailor shops—most notably Sartoria Tirelli, associated with 17 Oscar-winning productions—the film celebrates cinematography from the lens of costumes and talents working behind the scenes.
Click here to purchase your ticket for Diamanti!
Sunday, 11/23: Follemente (Madly), Paolo Genovese, 2025, Trailer5:30 PM: Film A delightful comedy that peeks behind the curtain of first-date nerves, following Piero and Lara as their minds buzz with hidden thoughts. These internal commentators collide in a hilarious cacophony of rational, romantic, passionate, and pessimistic voices. Witty and playful, the film is an exploration of the inner battles we all face—and have hopefully learned to laugh at. A joyful way to wrap up the weekend with a smile.
Click here to purchase your ticket for Follemente!
TICKETS: Opening Reception (Nov. 21): 50 tickets available -- purchase on FOI website starting on October 15. Films: 280 seats available -- each film ticket (starting on October 3):
NOTES
Become a member to join this exclusive event!
Please note: You must purchase your Napoli–New York film ticket separately from HoMA to enter the museum and attend this reception.
Kick off the Italian Film Festival Honolulu with a delicious aperitivo and new friends. Join us for an exclusive members-only reception before the first screening, Naples-New York— a perfect way to unwind at the end of the work week and ease into the weekend with Italian style.
Enjoy a selection of savory bites and light dishes such as charcuterie boards, pinzimonio (veggie dips), mini panini, caprese salad, and focaccia and more), paired with two complimentary drink tickets included in your admission (Italian red, white, prosecco wines). You’re also welcome to bring your own favorite bottle (BYOB) to share with friends.
Held in the private courtyard at HoMA, this opening reception celebrates Italian conviviality and Hawai‘i’s creative community — where good food, great company, and cinema meet.
PARKING: HoMA parking lot is available behind the Honolulu Museum of Art School, 1111 Victoria Street. Enter from the left-hand side of Beretania Street. Rates: $3/hour or $8 all day (Credit card only), For a map and details, visit the HoMA website.
TIME: Doors open at 5:00pm and close at 6:45pm, so we can walk to the film screening at 7pm.
RSVP: By November 14. Limited to 50 spots only.
MEMBERS: Login to register for events or renew your membership (if you encounter any issues, please contact the Help Desk).
NOTES: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawai‘i is not responsible for any liability, costs, or damages that may arise from participation in this program. No refunds, credits, or exchanges are available unless the event is canceled.
QUESTIONS: Email us at info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
Become a member so you can attend this event! All Italy lovers are welcome!
Take a break, grab your coffee (or lunch), and sharpen your Italian skills with our wonderful language teacher, Iole Marinelli! Join our professoressa for an engaging hour of Italian conversation, featuring lively discussions and readings from Italian newspapers and magazines. Participants should have at least the equivalent of our Level 2 Italian class and be comfortable conversing in Italian. This will allow for meaningful and enjoyable discussions on a wide range of topics drawn from the materials provided by the host.
Instructor: Iolanda Marinelli, friends and family call her Iole, is one of our Italian Language Teachers. Iole grew up in Italy where she received her Laurea Magistrale (M.A.) in Foreign Languages and Literatures from the University of Naples “L’Orientale”, and a Teaching Certification in English Secondary Education from Italy Department of Education. In 2006 she made Hawai’i her home. Here she began to teach Italian at Saint Anthony School in 2016, and in 2017 she completed her Hawai'i Certification as Substitute Teacher K-12 and started substitute teaching at public schools on Oahu. She continued to teach Italian and Spanish for the After School Malama Program at Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School, and Kailua Elementary School. Iole also served three terms on the Board of Directors of the Hawai’i Association of Language Teachers as Italian Representative. In 2023 she left the Hawai'i Department of Education and started a new job with the Naval Pacific Command. She brings her experience working with children and adds fun to the Italian classes.
Prepare: Purchase drink and/or food at the coffee shop (mandatory). Bring tablet for on-line news sources (optional). Italian magazines will be provided by the organizer.
Location: Specific location in Hawaii Kai to be provided to registered guests.
RSVP: Required, by a week prior to event. Maximum 10 attendees. Members only. No guests are allowed for Dual members.
Questions: Email us at info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
UPDATED DATE: Tuesday December 2nd. Discover award-winning contemporary Italian authors with our curated book club series. Featuring celebrated titles available in English translation, each selection brings you inspiring stories set against Italy’s rich cultural and historical landscape. Join us for meaningful discussions and a deeper connection to Italian literature and culture.
In celebration of International Women's Day, our next book is Oliva Denaro (The Unbreakable Heart of Oliva Denaro) by Viola Ardone, available in Italian and English.NOVEL: The historical book is inspired by the true story of Franca Viola, a young Sicilian girl whose courageous stand shaped the new family law in Italy, from marriage traditions to children’s rights. It celebrates personal resiliency, social change, cultural evolution, political inspiration, unwavering friendship, true love, and the profound bond between father and daughter. Positive and uplifting, the novel brings everyday heroes to the forefront while historical figures and events frame the story. In 2023, on International Women’s Day, Franca Viola was awarded the title of Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic by President Giorgio Napolitano. Accepting the honor, she remarked, “I must thank my father, who supported me, and my husband, who married me despite knowing his life was in danger.”
AUTHOR: Born in Napoli in 1974, Viola Ardone is a high-school teacher of Latin and Italian Literature, and collaborates with educational publishers. Her historical novel “Il treno dei bambini” (The Children's Train), about Italy’s Trains of Happiness initiative, has been translated into 36 languages and adapted into a film by renowned Italian filmmaker, Cristina Comencini. Her next novel, Oliva Denaro (the Unbreakable Heart of Oliva Denaro), is also translated internationally and is inspired by Franca Viola’s life, an Italian woman known for her courage and resilience. LOCATION: In person in Honolulu. Registered guests will receive an email with address prior to the event. You must have read the book to participate. TIME: 4pm mingling; 5pm book discussion. RSVP: A week prior to program. NOTE: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds, except if it cannot deliver the program, for instance in the case of insufficient enrollment. QUESTIONS: Email us at info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
Join us for an exciting and energetic Tarantella dance lesson, where tradition meets fun! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this lively Southern Italian folk dance is sure to get your feet moving and your heart racing. The Tarantella, with its twirling movements and fast rhythm, has been celebrated for centuries as a symbol of liberation and celebration. You will learn the basic steps and a full choreography in a welcoming and friendly environment for all skill levels. As a moving archive of language and culture, the Tarantella will take you on a journey through history that is still very much alive today. Bring your energy for a great time and meet new friends who love to have fun! Francesca Linden is a passionate performer with formal training in dancing, acting and singing and is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Dance Certificate of Teaching Studies, The National Ballet School of Canada as well as a certified personal trainer. She has been active and involved in the global dance community including, dancing formally in Toronto Canada as well as Honolulu, Hawaii in addition to freelancing in Malawi, Japan and Italy. Although her love of and training in ballet began at the age of two, she has expanded beyond dance itself to being cast in musical productions and films alike. Francesca has had the huge privilege of teaching dance for just short of 12 years, in varying forms from classical ballet to Latin Salsa and everything in between! “When a teacher stops learning, so do the students.” She is a member and Italian language student of Friends of Italy Society of Hawai'i. RSVP: Mandatory by January 18, maximum 26 students. The registration form will also ask if you'd like to join us for dinner afterward! (Each person pays for personal bill—bring cash.) Payment: RSVPed guests will receive an email with payment directions. Payment of $20 per person is due by January 20 to secure your spot. Bring: White clothes (long skirt for women), red scarves, dance shoes or barefoot, tambourines if possible. Or just come as you are! Parking: Street parking. Note: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds, except if it cannot deliver the program, for instance in the case of insufficient enrollment. Questions: Email us at info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
Become a member to enjoy this Member-Only event!
Join us for a private tour of the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) by Dr.Nancy Miwa, FOISOH member and HoMA docent. She will lead us on a tour of a special exhibit featuring a new galley, the Samuel H. Kress Foundation Collection. Samuel H. Kress (1863–1955) was a businessman and collector of primarily Italian Renaissance works who gifted portions of his collection to regional and academic art museums throughout the United States. The Honolulu Museum of Art’s collection, established in 1961, features 16 paintings dating from the early 14th century to the late 18th century. Works include landscapes by Carlo Bonavia, portraits by Francesco de’ Rossi and Giovanni Battista Moroni, as well as paintings of the Madonna and Child and other religious subjects by artists such as Francesco Granacci and Piero di Cosimo.
Nancy Miwa: After spending several years in the political and nonprofit arenas, Dr. Miwa returned to graduate school to study the history, theology, iconography, and literature of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. She moved to Honolulu eight years ago and immediately trained as a docent at the Honolulu Museum of Art. Her travels have taken her all over the world, but she particularly enjoys her visits “home” to Italy.
RSVP: Mandatory and only if you’re completely sure and committed to the event because there are only 20 spots available due to the gallery size. COST: Registrants will pay the museum’s entrance fee directly to the museum at the time of the event: free for HoMA members and minors; $15 for Hawai‘i residents with ID; $25 for others.
TIME: The tour will start at 5:00pm punctual and will continue at 6:00pm in the museum café to enjoy pupus and drinks (self-paid, cash). PARKING: Visit the HoMA website for direction, parking.
NOTE: The Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is not responsible for any liability, cost, and damages which could arise from the programs; and does not provide any refunds.
QUESTIONS: Please contact info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org.
Friends of Italy Society of Hawaii is a 501(c)7 non-profit organization | P.O. Box 1376, Honolulu, HI 96807 | info@friendsofitalyhawaii.org
