Heiva i Kauai 2009 announced

The Heiva i Kauai committee, led by Tepairu and Jo Manea have announced the dates for next years' event - August 1-2, 2009. Activities will once again take place at the Kapa'a Beach Park in Kauai, Hawaii. Now in its 8th year, Heiva i Kauai Ia Orana Tahiti continues to have participants join in the fun of perpetuating the art and joy of Tahitian dance and drumming.

"Heiva i Kauai is a family-centered community non-profit Tahitian cultural event produced annually by volunteers, with assistance from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the County of Kauai Product Enrichment Program. All admission gate and vendor booth proceeds received each year are used to produce the following year’s event. The program includes exciting Tahitian solo competition for tane and vahine dancers from age 4 to tupuna, as well as group competition and exhibition for otea, aparima, ahuroa and drumming. Tahitian dance and drumming workshops occur throughout the weekend."

Competition applications and additional information about the event is available at the event website. The organizers are excited about the interest they are getting from groups. Contact them for assistance in organizing for group accommodations and travel. More information to come.

Heiva i Honolulu 2009

Tahiti Nui International just updated their website with information, applications and updates for their March 12-14, 2009 Heiva i Honolulu event at the Waikiki Shell. The Waikiki event is the first US event next year. Currently there are 23 major Tahitian dance events scheduled for 2009 throughout the US, Tahiti, Japan and Mexico. In addition to the dance competition, plans are underway for workshops and cultural exhibits and exhibition performances. Book your reservations early and get ready for a great year for Tahitian dance.

Visit the Tahiti Nui International website for all the latest information.

Ori Tahiti Master Course

The 1st Tahitian Dance Academy "Ori Tahiti Master Course" will be held throughout the month of March 2009 by the "Conservatoire artistique de la Polynésie-Française", presented by the Ministry of Culture of French Polynesia.

The Tahitian dancing "Master Course" allows dancers to go through different stages from beginner to advanced. Dancers will not only be immersed in the "Ori Tahiti" experience, but will also learn the meaning of the Polynesian songs and the different rhythms created with Polynesian instruments.

From March 30-April 3, 2009 dancers will participate in dance practices and lessons, and ukulele, drumming and singing practices. The intensive course will introduce and hone the finer points of the art of Tahitian dance.

Class size is limited to 60 so the sooner you sign up the better. Dancers need to be 16 years old or above. Applications are available online and need to be submitted by the end of February. Course fee is 40,000 cfp (approx. $450 USD) per person. Application fee is 3,000 cfp (approx. $33 USD). Payments are required through bank transfers and account information may be found on the website.

Travel packages including airfare, hotel accommodations and transportation to and from the airport are available. Departure cities include Los Angeles and Honolulu in the US, Paris (France) and Auckland (New Zealand). Air transportation is being provided by Air Tahiti Nui. Accommodations are being provided by the Sheraton Hotel Tahiti. For all other departure cities, refer to your preferred Tahiti destination specialist.

Air Tahiti Nui and the Sheraton Hotel Tahiti are official sponsors along with Tahiti Tourisme and the government of French Polynesia.

And if you are not able to attend the first event, preparations are well under way for the 2nd "Ori Tahiti Master Course" set to take place October 26-30, 2009. Visit the official website for updates and more information.

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas 2009

Tahitian dance, or Ori Tahiti, will again be highlighted on Memorial Day weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada. KP and Tetua Ioane, producers of the Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas, have just confirmed the dates and location for their annual event now in its 7th year. Once again UNLV's Cox Pavilion will host activities on Sunday and Monday, May 24-25, 2009.

The event includes both solo and group competitions. More details and information will be forthcoming on their official website.

Tahitian dance heads to the Big Apple for parade

by Alma Damo

Our non-profit Tahitian Dance Group, MANUTAHI, is elated to announce that over 30 members of our ohana consisting of our tamarii, their mothers or aunties, our teenagers and our vahine, is headed to the BIg Apple to represent Hawaii in the 2008 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Throughout the year, our dancers have been working diligently and spent countless hours making their own costumes and learning the choreography to the Tahitian Dance portion of the routine. Training for the dance has been extra excruciating, as the dancers practiced with their heavy more' skirts to ensure that they would be able to handle the 3 mile walk in full costume, and in freezing temperatures.

Jon Riggle, Director of the Polynesian Dance Ensemble of Hawaii, brought together both Hula and Tahitian dancers from all over the state of Hawaii, to spread the Aloha and Polynesian culture to the rest of the nation through the televised syndication of the timeless and traditiona l Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

More at the Honolulu Advertiser

Tahitian Dance - Heiva Calendar Shake Up

The 2009 Tahitian dance calendar is active and full of changes. Changes starts from the switch of the Heiva i Honolulu from 2010 to 2009. The move pushes the International Heiva i Tahiti back to 2010 and was recently confirmed by Raymond Mariteragi of Tahiti Nui International (TNI), producer of both events. Next years' event dates are March 12-14, 2009. In addition, the third TNI event, Heiva i Japan, is also moving dates. The Japan event is pushing the dates back a month to September 13, 2009.

More changes have been announced by Elizabeth Bertumen, producer of Tarena Tahiti. Not only is the event moving locations, it is also changing dates. In fact the event is moving to become a complimentary event to Te Aranui O Tahiti, the other event produced by Elizabeth Bertumen. Both events will take place at San Francisco State University, April 25-26, 2009. Tarena Tahiti is a competitive soloist competition and the Te Aranui O Tahiti event is a non competitive group event.

The July 4th weekend is also seeing a shake up as well. Hura Tahiti (Cerritos, CA), traditionally towards the end of July, is moving up to July 3-4, 2009. Event organizer, Alex Tekurio, moved the event up to accommodate other events that place him and his organization in Tahiti for the largest heiva - Heiva i Tahiti. The Tahiti Fete of San Jose is also making a change from recent years. Pua Tokumoto, producer of the event, recently announced the change from a bi-annual schedule back to making it an annual event. So the Tahitian dance competition will again be in San Jose, July 3-5, 2009.

And as we close out the year with the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete (Las Vegas, NV), the last major event of 2008, we find that many of the events for the first half of 2009 have confirmed their dates and locations. Recent confirmations include the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete (Merced, CA), which is celebrating its 30th anniversary as the longest running Tahitian dance event outside of Tahiti. Activities will take place March 27-29, 2009. That same weekend, Tamarii Tahiti Fete is scheduled to take place in Orlando, Florida. Applications and other information for the March 28, 2009 event will be available shortly from their website.

For the latest developments, updates and news, check back often or sign up for the Heiva-Tahiti Fete RSS newsfeed (see top of page for subscribe link). And for a list of all events, check out our Tahiti Dance Event Calendar on our website, Black Pearl Designs.

Black Pearl Designs, established in 2004, features exclusive Tahitian pareo designs and fabric, black pearl jewelry, handicrafts, monoi oil, temporary tattoos and unique accessories not only from French Polynesia, but also hidden and hard-to-find hand crafted items from Maori-Aotearoa, Fiji, Samoa and Hawaii.

2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

Eric Morales, one of the organizers of the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete, recently advised us of news concerning the upcoming 30th anniversary event. Event preparations are in full swing. A special rate for nearby hotels is also in the works and details will be announced shortly.

"In addition, since this is the 30th anniversary event, we encourage people to e-mail us photos they may have taken of friends and family during any of the past Kiki Raina Fetes. These photos will be included in our program."

"Also, this year our fete would like to promote Polynesian Culture in a new fashion as we continue expanding our event program to publish artwork, poetry, essays, and/or short fiction that highlights Polynesia in any way, shape, or form. People may write about their experiences in creating their halau, about joining a specific halau, about what Polynesian culture means to them, about events in their lives that showcase the Aloha Spirit, or they can simply tell a story that relates to Polynesia in some way. Another interesting venue to take would be to write about a specific folktale or legend about the Polynesian Islands that they would like to share with the 2,000 people attending the event. Because folktales and legends are impossible to attribute to a single author and are by nature inconstant, it is possible to rewrite and/or illustrate them without infringing on any copyrights."

"All accepted work will be published with Limited Rights. This means that any work that makes it into our program will remain the intellectual property of the writer/artist."

"All written work will be edited by a PhD student in Folklore from Indiana Bloomington University - the premiere folklore institute in the nation. Valuable insights into story structure and sentence diagramming will be provided."

"Those who have their work published will receive a free program featuring their entry as well as a certificate from the Kiki Raina Event."

"This is an excellent opportunity for aspiring writers/artists to begin to have their work reviewed and published, which looks great on university applications, in portfolios, and on query letters to future publishers. Most importantly though, this is a way to keep the Polynesian Culture alive and thriving."

The 2009 event will take place March 27-29, 2009 and will again take place at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Advance purchase tickets are available - 3 Day Pass (advanced sale only - Adult $35, Child $25; Children (5-12) $10; Adult (13 and up) $15. Tickets available at the door - Children (5-12) $12, Adult (13 and up) $17. Advance tickets will be available up until March 23, 2009. Tickets are limited.

For more information, contact the event organizer, Becky Manandic, call Pacifica at (209) 726-1925 or visit their website at www.kikiraina.com.

Hura Tahiti 2009 update

The fourth of July will be filled with more than fireworks in Southern California. Get ready for the 5th Annual Hura Tahiti. Activities will be taking place July 3-4, 2009 in Cerritos, California.

If you have a chance, check out the new look of the website with downloadable information, applications, and upcoming details. Alex Tekurio, Ra'atira of the acclaimed dance group Hitia O Te Ra, organizes the event each year along with the support and assistance of many in the Tahitian dance community.

Check back as more details become available. Deadline for turning in the "intent to enter" application is March, 17, 2009. Don't wait. Reserve your group today.

Tahiti Fete of San Jose 2009 - Hilo on hold

For those of you not expecting an event in San Jose, California in 2009, you'll be pleasantly surprised on new developments just announced by Pua Tokumoto, producer of the Tahiti Fete of San Jose and Tahiti Fete of Hilo. At the recent Hilo event, she quietly announced that a 2009 San Jose event would indeed happen. This is a change from the biannual schedule of the past few years.

The Tahiti Fete of San Jose will indeed take place over the July 4th weekend again - July 3-5, 2009. Events will again take place at the San Jose State University campus. Ticket information, group accommodations, travel packages and more details will be announced when plans are more finalized.

Pua Tokumoto also just announced that the Tahiti Fete of Hilo will be on hold for the time being. Citing the economic down turn and the inability of groups from the mainland to be able to afford the high cost trip, she regretfully decided to suspend having the event. However, she did have hopes for the event to continue as early as 2010.

Tahiti Fete of Hilo Solo Results

It seems that Chelsea Clement is on a roll. Having picked up several overall awards this year, she continues to be at the top of her game. She repeats as the overall soloist, having taking the title last year as well. The 2008 Tahiti Fete of Hilo showcased not only her talents but also some of the best in the Hawaiian island.

The eighth annual event took place October 4, 2008 at the Chinen-Afook Civic Auditorium in Hilo, Hawaii. The dancers and groups took the stage and performed before an energetic crowd of approximately 2,000. This is the last major Tahitian dance competition in Hawaii this year. Only two more Tahitian dance competitions are scheduled on the mainland for 2008 - the Tahiti Fete of Utah (Oct. 17-18) in Salt Lake City, Utah and the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete (Nov. 8-11) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Visit our Tahitian dance events page for information on all events for next year.

Tahiti Fete of Hilo 2008

SOLOISTS

5-8 Vahine
1. Hailey-Rose Kea of To’a Here
2. Malaea Tolentino-Selke of Polynesian Paradise
3. Kahealani Balbas of Matari’i Tahiti

9-12 Vahine
1. Cara-Mia Kricken - Independent
2. Macy Panajon of Pupu Ote Ite Ra
3. Star Alcosiba of Pupu Ote Ite Ra

9-12 Tane
1. Turi Kekuaokalani of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Zacchaeus Uta of Te ‘E’a ‘O Te Turama
3. Tamatoa Uta of Te ‘E’a ‘O Te Turama

13-15 Vahine
1. Nadia Osnaya Hernandez of Hana Escuela de Artes Polinesias
2. Ku’uipo Otsuka of To’a Here
3. Paige Soma of Tiare Ura o’ Tahiti

16-18 Vahine
1. Chelsea Clement of Te ‘E’a ‘O Te Turama
2. Kalei Onzuka of Ma’ohi Nui
3. Charzelle McAngus of Manutahi

19-24 Vahine
1. Anuhea Chang of Merahi Productions
2. Mehana Salvador of To’a Here
3. Cassie Pira of Merahi Productions

25-34 Vahine
1. Pualani Avaeoru of Lu’au Kalamaku
2. Shari Balga of Merahi Productions
3. Jesse Ha’a of Merahi Productions

15-34 Tane
1. Paul Morimoto of Lu’au Kalamaku
2. Brandon Oka of Te U’i Api o Tele Tau Nei

35-49 Vahine
1. Waianuhea Lourdes Rodriguez Rivera of Hana Escuela de Artes Polinesias
2. Arleen Marcelo of Otea Api
3. Tonya Andrews of To’a Here

35-49 Tane
1. Gene Lawakua Gabriel of To’a Here


OVERALL SOLOISTS
Vahine
Chelsea Clement of Te ‘E’a ‘O Te Turama
Tane
Paul Morimoto of Lu’au Kalamaku

Group With Highest Number of Solo Placements
To’a Here of Hilo, Hawaii

Group results for Tahiti Fete of Hilo 2008

Tahitian dance groups from Oahu, the Big Island, Maui and Kauai participated in this year's Tahiti Fete of Hilo. In addition, the group Hana Escuela de Artes Polinesias of Cuautitlan Izcalli, Mexico also participated in the competition. It was the groups' second appearance at the event.

Competition activities took place at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo, Saturday, October 4, 2008. The event featured both a group and solo competition as well as local food and craft vendors.

Below are the results for this years group competition.

Tahiti Fete of Hilo 2008

Tamari’i (Children)
Otea
1. Te ‘E’a o Te Turama of Honolulu, HI
2. Matari’i Tahiti/Tiare Apetahi of Hilo, HI
3. Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI

Aparima
1. Te ‘E’a o Te Turama of Honolulu, HI
2. Polynesian Paradise of Capt. Cook, HI
3. Mehetia Productions of Kaneohe, HI

Otea Ori Rau
1. Mehetia Productions of Kaneohe, HI


Hura Ava Tau (Amateur)
Otea
1. Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI
2. Hana Escuela de Artes Polinesias of Cuautitlan Izcalli, Mexico
3. Merahi Productions of Hilo, HI

Aparima
1. Hana Escuela de Artes Polinesias of Cuautitlan Izcalli, Mexico
2. Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI
3. Matari’i Tahiti/Tiare Apetahi of Hilo, HI

Ahuroa
1. Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI
2. Merahi Productions of Hilo, HI
3. Polynesian Paradise of Capt. Cook, HI

Drumming
1. Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI

Music
1.Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI


Hura Tau (Professional)
Otea
1. To’a Here of Hilo, HI

Ahuroa
1. To’a Here of Hilo, HI

Aparima
1. To’a Here of Hilo, HI

Music
1. To’a Here of Hilo, HI

Drumming
1. To’a Here of Hilo, HI

Traditional Costume
Te Mau Merahi of Kihei, HI

Contemporary Costume
Mehetia Productions of Kaneohe, HI

No energy crisis for Tahiti Fete

By John Burnett
Tribune-Herald Staff Writer

Though hit by economy, air fares, hundreds still flock to Hilo festival. If the drumming and dancing at Tahiti Fete Hilo could be harnessed and transmitted, the Big Island's energy crisis would be solved.

The 2008 edition was scaled back this year from two days to one and fewer dance troupes competed, but a crowd of about 2,000 seemed not to notice, cheering, whistling loudly and stamping their feet, the pulsating percussion driving the dancers to a hip-shaking frenzy.

More at the Hawaii Tribune Herald

Tahiti Fete of Hilo interview

KBIG, a radio station out of Hilo, Hawaii recently conducted an on-air interview with Pua Tokumoto, producer of the Tahiti Fete of Hilo, and talked about this weekends' activities at the Afook-Chinen Civic Center. The event will be taking place Saturday, October 4, 2008 from 9am to 5pm. Check out the radio station website to listen to the 8 minute interview.

Open Call - Calling all Tahitian dancers

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cultural icon in America and also the unofficial kickoff of the Christmas/Holiday season. Millions of people watch this time honored tradition each year and each year groups from around the country are able to showcase their hometowns, ethnicities and groups.

This year, Manutahi Tahiti, one of Hawaii's leading Tahitian dance groups, led by Ra'atira - Pola Teriipaia, has been invited to perform in the 2009 parade. As much as they'd like to send enough of their dancers, they are looking for more dancers to participate. Dancers from all over Hawaii and as far as Orlando, Florida are participating, so distance isn't necessarily an issue. Fundraising efforts are in full swing, including selling their new 2009 Tahitian dance calendar. Dancers, drummers and musicians interested in participating should contact Pola Teriipaia at (808) 222-4346 or email her for details.

The trip to New York also will involve several performances in and around the Eastern seaboard during the holiday weekend including a performance on the grounds of the White House in Washington DC. It's a great opportunity to showcase the Tahitian dance and culture to a national audience and represent the Tahitian dance community.

Free admission to Tahiti Fete of Utah

Once again the organizers of the Tahiti Fete of Utah are offering free admission to their upcoming event on Friday and Saturday, October 17-18, 2008. The annual event, now in its fourth year has been chaired by Mata'u Tuivaiti and enjoys gracious sponsorships that allow for offering the event to everyone for free. That's right. I said, FREE. Activities will be taken place at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center in West Valley City, Utah.

The event was originally started by Mata'u's sister Upuia Sagapolu & her aunty, Dofi Faasou. "We wanted to bring back the old Tahitian way of dancing, not so much the modern... We sought out Iona "Papi" Teriipaia's help & support."

Registration is now open and information is available on their official website. For more information and applications, call (UCAP) Utah Community Association for Pacific Islanders. (801) 918-1052 or (801) 953-9877 or email:mtuitama@yahoo.com.

For groups in the area and soloists who want to tryout their new routines, this event is a great opportunity to compete and not have to raise funds to pay to participate. For groups outside of Utah, it is an opportunity to compete with other groups that you may not have competed against in the past. At any rate, it sets the stage to up the excitement.

Tarena Tahiti update

Elizabeth Bertumen, organizer of Tarena Tahiti, has announced that the Tarena Tahiti annual event is merging with the other Tahitian dance event that she produces each year - Te Aranui O Tahiti. Tarena Tahiti is a soloist competition that has taken place in Daly City, CA for the past several years.

In moving the event, it allows for a both a soloist and group format. Te Aranui O Tahiti is a group event taking place in San Francisco, CA at the San Francisco State University Gymnasium. Next year's combined event will take place April 25-26, 2009. The event also features workshops conducted by leading Tahitian dance, music and drumming instructors Roiti Sylva and Coco Hotahota.

Elizabeth explains:

"Te Aranui O Tahiti is a non-competitive Tahitian Festival for groups to exhibit their dance and music dedicated exclusively to the Tahitian culture. The structure of the festival is rather unique. Usually, in competitions groups performed continuously (except for lunch) the whole day (8 hours or more). Friends and family all come to enjoy the festivities but mainly to support and watch their favorite group(s). To do this, they have to sometimes sit all day just to watch their group. Te Aranui O Tahiti was designed similiar to watching your favorite movie. A designated hour is dedicated to 2 groups each performing a 30 minute program."

She goes on to explain that "...people can just buy tickets for the specific group they want to watch. It really is less stressful for everyone and of course people can choose to watch as many groups they want but at least does not have to sit through the whole day waiting. You have a more appreciative audience when they come to specifically to enjoy their group of choice."

It's this attention to detail that has allowed this event to grow and led to the decision to combine the events, now being able to complement both group and solo entries.

"Tarena Tahiti is a competition. It works 2-fold (Costume & Solo Competition). It is a costume competition (Parade of Costumes) where dancers display their choice of costume (no dancing), formal or informal a la Tahitienne. There is no limitation on creativity which makes for some fantastic results."

"The second part is solo dance (Ori) where not only is their costume evaluated but their dance skills as well. In essence, it is a complete package in that not only can you dance but also have a creative/personal style in dress. Tarena Tahiti (Tahitian Calendar) has 12 winners for representing the months of the year with the highest one scored in Costume and Solo Dance is the Cover and 1st place winner. Tarena is divided into 3 editions: Tamarii (Children 5-12 yrs), Junior (13-17 yrs), Adult (18 yrs +) each with 12 winners. This gives allowance to more dancers getting their rightful recognition rather than limiting it to just 1st, 2nd & 3rd."

"Te Aranui O Tahiti is an excellent venue for groups to exhibit performers of all levels from beginners to advance without being judged. It is one of the few venues where groups can congregate freely in a non-competitive environment."

Check back later for more updates as this event announces more information.

Manutahi Calendar fundraiser and more

We're always looking for ways to visually share our love for Tahitian dance. Last week we were contacted by Pola Teriipaia, ra'atira of Manutahi Tahiti and she broke the news of an exciting new calendar fundraiser that they are producing. Soon to be available in select stores in Hawaii and at our Black Pearl Designs online store (so you can pick it up anywhere, anytime), this calendar features dancers from her group in tropical backdrops and doing what they love best... dancing. Shot on location in Hawaii, the calendars are $10 and profits go towards the groups' nonprofit scholarship program.

In addition to the exciting announcement, Auntie Pola also announced the dates for the 2nd Annual Manutahi Tahiti Competition - April 18-19, 2009 (check out all the dates for all the Heiva's). Activities will once again be hosted by Waimea Valley. Details about the event will be available shortly. This is a solo competition set the to backdrop of the lush tropical greenery of Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu.

For those who are not part of Manutahi, the calendar is a great way to show off your love for the Tahitian culture and dance all year long.

Last but not least, possibly one of the most highly visible venues for Tahitian dance in recent years is coming to Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this November. Auntie Pola, along with Iwalani Tseu, are working to get a group of dancers to perform in the parade. Members from the Oahu and Maui branches as well as the Texas group are currently practicing for the event. It's a historical moment and a great opportunity for exposing more people to the culture. If you would like more information or would like to participate, contact Pola Teriipaia (808 222-4346) directly.

Photos for Fano Maohi's Tahiti Tamure Heiva

Photos of the recent Tahiti Tamure Heiva hosted by Fano Maohi are now available online at Gyme Images. Photographer James Atoa has a large selection of photos that he's taken of not only this event but several others. Check out his portfolio of event photos. Most are available for purchase.

Fano Maohi's Tahiti Tamure Heiva took place Saturday, August 16, 2008 at Hillcrest High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. Participating groups included an exhibition of Tongan group Mohe Kono Kono and Fano Maohi both of Salt Lake City. Competing groups included Malialole (Salt Lake City, Utah), Voice of Polynesia (Provo, Utah) and Kei Alaha of Diamond Bar, California.

Te Tiare Patitifa and Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands dominate Heiva i Maui

The community came out to give strong support to this year's Heiva i Maui. Event organizer Lolita Eugenio expressed her gratitude to the participants, community, vendors and sponsors and added that "it's cultural and the whole family can enjoy." Activities took place August 8-10, 2008 in Wailuku, Maui at the War Memorial Gymnasium.

In the group category, two dance groups dominated - Te Tiare Patitifa of Wailuku, Maui under the direction of Keoni Manuel and Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands of Huntington Beach, California led by Roy Asuega and Kathy Asuega. Both have competed in several of the Heiva's and Tahiti Fete's.

Continuing on her recent titles, Chelsea Clement again claimed 1st in her age group. After winning titles in the Heiva i Kauai, Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti, Kauai Polynesian Festival, and Tahiti Fete of Hilo, this talented dancer has repeatedly raised the bar.

For photos, galleries and more information, visit the event website.
Here are the results of the 2008 Heiva i Maui:

Group Results

Gracious Ladies - Te Tiare Patitifa

Jr. Aparima - Te Tiare Patitifa
Jr. 'Ote'a - Te Tiare Patitifa

Sr. Ahuroa- Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
Sr. Aparima - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
Sr. 'Ote'a - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands

Drumming- Te Vai Ura Nui

Combined 'Ote'a - Te Tiare Patitifa


Solo Results

Tamahine 5-8
1. Moana To'oto'o - Marania Haoragi
2. Tory Lazcano - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. Kalei Freitas - Te Tiare Patitifa

Tamahine 9-12
1. Sammy McClymonds - Hitia O Te Ra
2. Jazmine Melchor - Maohi Nui
3. Kanani Asuega - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands

Tamaroa 9-12
1. Trent Nakihei - Haruru Toa
2. TJ Makoa Idemoto - Ari'i Hau Moana
3. JD Melchor - Maohi Nui

Vahine 13-17
1. Chelsea Clement - Te'E'a O Te Turama
2. Kaela Acuff - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. Dayna Higa - Manutahi Tahiti

Tane 13-17
1. Kawelau Riveira - Haruru Toa
2. Keanu Asuega - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. Tyler Acuff - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands

Vahine 18-24
1. Nohea Catugal - Te Tiare Patitifa
2. Pulama Petsas - Haruru Toa
3. Danielle Cadiz - Haruru Toa

Tane 18-24
1. Tavi Tenari - Te Tiare Patitifa
2. Nick Imamaura - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. Jerome Epenesa - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands

Vahine 25-34
1. Eileen Ratuita - Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
2. Kapualoke Nacua - Orama Here Hia
3. Fa'a Tenari - Te Tiare Patitifa

Tane 25-34
1. Kimo Palakiko - Te Tiare Patitifa

Tane 35 +
1. Lawakua Gabriel - Independent

Mauruuru to Lolita Eugenio, Heiva i Maui organizer, for providing the results and helping to perpetuate the art of Tahitian dance.

5th Annual Hura Tahiti dates announced

Organizer, Alex Tekurio just announced the dates for next years event. The 5th annual Hura Tahiti event will take place over the July 4th weekend, July 3-4, 2009 at Hope International University in Fullerton, California.

Tahitian dance, music, arts and crafts will again be featured to share, preserve and promote the culture. Details are being worked out as we write. Group and solo applications are available online on their website. Tentative due date for all applications is March 17, 2009.

Visit the official site for the latest information and news.

Varua Tahiti E claims Hura Tahiti Title

The competition just keeps getting better and better. That can be said of every group that attended this years' Hura Tahiti event. The heiva, hosted by the Tahitian dance group Hitia O Te Ra and Ra'atira Alex Tekurio is now in its 4th year. Event activities took place at Hope International University in Fullerton, California.

This year saw Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, Utah claiming the top award in the junior division (Hura Ava Tau) by placing first in both Aparima and Otea. They also received a special recognition for having the best Ra'atira as well.

Overall Hura Tau (Senior Division) honors went to Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, California led by Torea King. The group also was awarded the best costume award.

Final results for the group competition are below:

Hura Ava Tau (Junior Division)

Group Aparima
1. Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT
2. Varua Hae of Huntington Beach, CA
3. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA

Group Otea
1. Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT
2. Varua Hae of Huntington Beach, CA
3. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA

Group Overall
1. Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT
2. Varua Hae of Huntington Beach, CA
3. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA


Hura Tau (Senior Division)

Group Aparima
1. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA
2. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA

Group Otea
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA

Group Ahupurotu
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA
3. Kanamu Dance Company of South Jordan, UT

Group Music
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA
3. Healii's Polynesian Revue of San Diego, CA

Group Drumming
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA
3. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA

Best Ra'atira
Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT

Best Costume
Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA

Hura Ava Tau Overall
Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT

Hura Tau Overall
Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA

Hura Tahiti 2008 solo results

Hosted by the premier Tahitian dance group, Hitia O Te Ra, the Tahitian dance competition Hura Tahiti took place the last weekend of July at Hope International University in Fullerton, California.

Soloists and groups from California and Utah competed. In the end the overall soloist awards went to Justin "Froggie" Atthgan of Nemenzo who is no stranger to winning titles after winning the overall award at the Heiva i Honolulu earlier this year among others. Jeannie Case of Nonosina impressed the judges and audience alike by taking the overall vahine award. Video highlights of her performance may be found at YouTube.

Here are the results of the Hura Tahiti 2008 solo competition.

Tamahine 8-10
1. Sammy McClymonds - Independent
2. Dulce Gutierrez of APPA
3. Julie Basnett - Independent

Tamaroa 8-10
1. Arik Gaoay of Nonosina
2. Yuaki Goto of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Joshua Bennett of Nonosina

Taure'area'a Vahine 11-13
1. Jonel Perez of Nemenzo
2. Kanani Salonius of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Lily Nethington of Nonosina

Taure'area'a Tane 11-13
1. Garrison Kealoha Sudario of Nonosina
2. Ka'uka'uwaole Stanley of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Keoni Kanoa of Heali'is Polynesian Revue

Taure'area'a Vahine 14-17
1. Stefanie Efnor of Tausala
2. Tabitha Tabbert of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Victoria Goodrich of Varua Tahiti E

Taure'area'a Tane 14-17
1. Jordan Seanoa of Tupua
2. Nekoa Utai of Tupua
3. Noke Rimal of Kanamu Dance Company

Vahine 18-21
1. Lauren Macaraeg of Nonosina
2. Caroline Oh of Varua Tahiti E
3. Leolani Gallardo of Nonosina

Tane 18-21
1. Justin "Froggie" Atthgan of Nemenzo
2. Cameron Garcitos of Nonosina
3. Ryan Samn of Nemenzo

Vahine 22-26
1. Jeannie Case of Nonosina
2. Lizzy Gutierrez of Manea
3. Michelle Baker of Nemenzo

Tane 22-26
1. Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo
2. Otis of Tago Le Pasefika
3. Alvin Tapa of Tausala

Vahine 27-35
1. Desiree Woodward-Lee of Nemenzo
2. Julia Gore of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Melody Seanoa of Tupua

Tane 27-35
1. Sonny Ganaden of Te Hura

Vahine 36+
1. Arleen Marcelo of Otea Api
2. Angela Villanueva of Te Hura
3. Leanne Johnston of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Island

Tane 36+
1. Tupua Seanoa of Tupua
2. Rey Manalac of Nemenzo
3. Jamel Dulolulao of Tupua

Overall Tane
Justin "Froggie" Atthgan of Nemenzo

Overall Vahine
Jeannie Case of Nonosina

Group results will be posted shortly.

Soloists shine at the 7th Annual Heiva i Kauai

Last week, Kapa'a Beach Park was the site for the 7th Annual Heiva i Kauai Ia Orana Tahiti dance competition. Audiences were treated to a premier solo competition with Chelsea Clement of Honolulu's Te ‘E’a o te Turama claiming the top soloist award. Not only did she repeat as the top dancer in her age category, she picked up the Overall Soloist award this year. This comes on the heals of titles she recently received at other events including the Tahiti Fete of Hilo and the Polynesian Cultural Center's Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti.

Highlighting the event was to be an artisan and dance group from Tahiti. However, due to a recent tragic accident and health issues for the group leader, the group was not able to attend. Despite the setback, that didn't stop the event from pleasing the crowds. A sold out crafters area and continuous workshops for dancers, drummers and musicians kept everyone busy and ready for the main competition. The Kauai Garden Island newspaper reported indepth. Check out their article by reporter Dennis Fujimoto.

Here are the final results from the event:

Vahine Age 4-7
1. Kyanna Asuncion of Halau Hula o Leilani
2. Angelina Rivera of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Tane Age 7-9
1. Kai Noah Ferris of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Vahine Age 7-9
1. Vaikehu Parker of Marania Haoragi
2. Tia Takahashi of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Sophia Rivera of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Tane Age 10-12
1. Kamuela Ferris of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Vahine Age 10-12
1. Cara Mia Kricken - Independent
2. Tahra-Lee Kaui of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Ashley Bowman of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Tane Age 13-15
1. Emmsley-James Drake of Rohotu

Vahine Age 13-15
1. Chelsea Clement of Te ‘E’a o te Turama
2. Kirstie Pii Matias of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Teresa Huff - Independent

Vahine Age 16-18
1. Kawahinehaaheo Oliver of Urahutia

Vahine Age 19-25
1. Lani Figaroa of Ori Uviira
2. Kauluwehiokekai Oliver of Urahutia
3. Kelcie Yomen of Urahutia

Vahine Age 26-39
1. Marie Mapa - Independent
2. Wailana Dasalia of Halau Hula o Leilani

Vahine Age 40 +
1. Louise Sausen - Independent


Overall Junior Tane
Kamuela Ferris of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Overall Junior Vahine
Cara Mia Kricken - Independent

Overall Senior Tane
Emmsley-James Drake of Rohotu

Overall Senior Vahine
Chelsea Clement of Te ‘E’a o te Turama

Kori Kori Tahiti Fete

Thanks to the helpful insight and inquiries of Vanessa Llave we were alerted to a fairly new heiva happening in Las Vegas. The Kori Kori Tahiti Fete is in its first year and takes place from Saturday November 8 to Tuesday November 11, 2008, Veteran's Day weekend, at the Del Sol High School Gymnasium (3100 E. Patrick Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89120). The event is organized by a committee of native Tahitians and Polynesians led by founder Ravahere Allred.

Highlights of the event include the "Miss Pearls of Polynesia" beauty pageant. Ravahere characterizes the contest proceedings similar to other island pageants such as the Miss Hawaii and Miss Tahiti pageants. She further explains that the event is a "fusion of cultures and a celebration of life." To help motivate contestants, she has put together among other things, a video of beauty pageant highlights, inspiration and tips. A group and solo Tahitian dancing competition will also highlight the event. It's a crowd favorite and a "must see" for any Tahitian dance event.

Unique to this event is a formal ball - The Royal Ball which will be held at the Bear's Best Country Club. The evening will celebrate and toast the new Miss Pearls of Polynesia. Reservations are required and seating is limited.

Another unique aspect to this new event is the chance for others other than the judges to vote for their favorite contestant and an opportunity to make a difference in the voting. Each ticket holder will be allowed to vote once.

Last but not least is the announcement that a portion of proceeds will be going to charity. With community service and involvement in mind, this event looks to help enrich and become a valuable memorable activity for all. We're looking forward to seeing the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete.

This event will be the last Tahitian dance competition event of 2008. Look for more information and the latest by visiting their website.

Nonahere repeats as top group at Heiva i Tahiti

The traditional Tahitian dance group Nonahere won first prize in the Claire Leverd Creation competition and the group Tamarii Tipaerui won first prize in the Madeleine Moua Heritage competition in the 126th Heiva i Tahiti.

Founded in 2003 by Matani Kainuku, Nonahere (blog in English) is based in Mahina. This is the second straight year that they have claimed the top honors.

Great photos of the event at Life is Love.

More information at Tahiti Presse

Watch a clip of Nonahere soloist Ravanui Longomazino's performance here.

Tahitian tamarii dance competition in Laie

The Polynesian Cultural Center had it's annual tamari'i Tahitian dance competition - Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti over the July 4th weekend. Chelsea Clement of Te'e'a o te Turama repeated as overall winner for the girls and L.J. Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii won the boys overall title.

There were approximately 100 participants at the competition. No groups performed this year.

Results of the 2008 competition:

Overall winner — Taure’are’a (12-18)
Girls: Chelsea Clement (14-15) of Te'e'a o te Turama
Boys: L.J. Mariteragi (14-15) of Nonosina Hawaii

Overall winner — Tamari’i (3-11)
Girls: Shandy Hopeau (9-11) of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
Boys: Jordan Mariteragi (9-11) of Nonosina Hawaii

Taure’are’a Division
Girls (16-18)
1. Kei Akoi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Dayna Higa of Manutahi
3. Monique Orton of Nonosina Hawaii

Boys (16-18)
1. L.J. Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Cameron Howser of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Girls (14-15)
1. Chelsea Clement of Te'e'a o te Turama
2. Angela-Jeanell Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Shayna Lei Soma of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Boys (14-15)
1. Joshua Sorensen of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (12-13)
1. Jazmine Emerson of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Ashlen Kinilau of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3. Shanelle Ramelb of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Boys (12-13)
1. Kameron Ho Ching of Nonosina Hawaii

Tamari’i Division
Girls (9-11)
1. Shandy Hopeau of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2. Macy S. Panajon of Pupu o te Iti Ra
3. Sabrina Parrish of Marania Haoragi

Boys (9-11)
1. Jordan Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Teancum Kaitoku of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Kaleb Ho Ching of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (7-8)
1. Chaylyn Navares of Manutahi
2. Amaya Joy Panajon of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3. Poliahu Aina of Te’e’a o te Turama

Boys (7-8)
1. Micah Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Troy Spacek
3. Tiloi Lolotai of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (5-6)
1. Kanoe Navares of Manutahi
2. Kaylee Tabangay of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Destiny Ramilo of Matarii Tahiti

Boys (5-6)
1. Teahu Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Teagan Kaitoku of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Kwinton Ho Ching of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (3-4)
1. Keawaiki Jones of Marania Haoragi
2. Isabella Tran of Marania Haoragi
3. Nauya-Lei Furtado of Marania Haoragi

Boys (3-4)
1. Taliuli Vimahi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Qamdon Josue of Te’e’a o te Turama

Heiva i Reno 2008

On Friday, August 1st, Heiva i Reno will celebrate it's 10th year of Tahitian dance. Soloist and groups will compete to the theme of "Mehara" or memory. Organizers are looking to theme the event to a time when Tahitian dance was more "simple, innocent and beautiful."

Activities will be held at the Silver Legacy Hotel & Casino in Reno, Nevada. Doors open at 9:00am and tickets are $15 general seating and $20 for reserved seating.

Groups shine at Tahiti Fete of San Jose 2008

As one of the largest Tahitian dance competitions, the Tahiti Fete of San Jose has garnered great interest from dancers and dancers at heart. Producer Pua Tokumoto saw a sold out San Jose State University event center last weekend and full capacity at the nearby 4 hotels. Competition was intense and brought out the best in the participating groups. The event took place July 4-7, 2008.

For the first time in the competitions' history, the top award ended in a tie. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco and Vallejo, CA and Nonosina of Anaheim, CA both claimed the top spot.

Without further ado, here are the group results to this years' event:

TAMARI'I DIVISION
Tamari'i 'Ote'a
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
2. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
3. Le Polynesia of Lake Forest, CA

Tamari'i Aparima
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
2. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
3. Te Pura o Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA

Tamari'i Drumming
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA

HURA AVA TAU (Amateur)
'Otea:
1. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
3. Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani of Stockton, CA

Aparima
1. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
2. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA
3. Kaleo'Onalani of San Diego, CA

Ahuroa
1. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
2. Makamae Melia o Polynesia of Elk Grove, CA
3. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA

Drumming
1. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA
2. E Honu Iti E of Tracy, CA
3. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA

Music
1. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
2. E Honu Iti E of Tracy, CA
3. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA

OVERALL HURA AVA TAU GROUP
Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA


HURA TAU (Professional)
'Otea:
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
3. Kawailehua of Fremont, CA

Aparima
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Da Island Way of Concord, CA
3. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA

Ahuroa
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. No Te Here o Te Hiroa of Fresno, CA
3. Manuia of Daly City, CA

Drumming
1. Here Tama Nui of Honolulu, HI
2. Nemenzo of Daly City, CA
3. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA

Music
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
3. Da Island Way of Concord, CA

'Ote'a Ori Rau - Contemporary 'Ote'a
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Kaleo'Onalani of San Diego, CA
3. Motu'Aina of Danville, CA

Tupuna Ahuroa - Mama Ru'au
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
2. Tamali'i of Hayward, CA
3. Manuia of Daly City, CA

Traditional Costume: Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
Contemporary Costume: Kaleo'Onalani of San Diego, CA
Ra'atira: Nonosina of Anaheim, CA

OVERALL HURA TAU GROUP: Tie (first time ever!)
Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA & Nonosina of Anaheim, CA

Solo results will be posted once we receive the final list from the event organizers. In the meantime, we'd love to hear the personal stories and insights. Feel free to comment. We've also seen that there are quite a few videos popping up highlighting groups and soloists. Visit YouTube.

For more information, visit the event website.

Hura Tahiti 2008 revving up

In Garden Grove and Fullerton, California, organizers of Hura Tahiti 2008 are readying for the workshops and competition. The 4th annual Hura Tahiti competition will held July 24th, 25th and 26th at the Hope International University in Fullerton. General admission to the event is $15 per day.

This year, 4 premier Tahitian dance instructors are conducting workshops. Coco Hotahota, Roiti Sylva, Erena Mapuhi and Malia Tafua will be sharing their expertise and experience. Tahitian Otea workshop will be conducted by Coco Hotahota. Aparima and Kapa workshop will be conducted by Roiti Sylva. Both workshops will be held at sponsoring Marriott Fullerton on July 24th starting at 7pm.

Erena Mapuhi and Malia Tafua will be conducting the Basic Tahitian Dance Steps workshop a day before on July 23rd at the Hitia O Te Ra Studio in Garden Grove. Workshops will begin at 7pm.

Hosting group, Hitia O Te Ra will be conducting a Tahitian drumming workshop on July 24th, 7pm at their studio. Group leader Alex Tekurio will be instructing.

For more information, tickets and downloadable forms, visit their websites at www.huratahiti.com and www.hitiaotera.com

Heiva i Tahiti features Marquesan Arts

From the opening kava ceremony, Marquesan pahu drums welcomed audiences to this years Heiva i Tahiti. Opening ceremonies definitely had a Marquesan presence beginning with Cultural Minister Joseph Kaiha, who is from the northernmost Marquesas Islands. The Place To'ata in downtown Papeete is the location of the 126th Heiva i Tahiti taking place from July 8-18, 2008.

Solo competition began on Tuesday and group competition began Wednesday. As well as dancing, singing groups also competed on Wednesday. Activities will continue throughout the week and close on the 18th with exhibitions from event winners.

Other events including crafting competitions, javelin throwing, stone lifting, coconut tree climbing and canoe racing.

Visit Tahiti Presse for more information.

A whole lotta shakin' at Heiva i Kauai

Book your tickets now. In less than a month Kapa'a will host Kauai's own Heiva i Kauai Ia Orana. Taking place August 2-3, 2008 the event is now in its 7th year. Dancers are competing in solo and group categories. Drummers are also competing in traditional and contemporary categories. Last years best group, Tamarii A Hiva, from Oahu, will be hard pressed to repeat their overwhelming performance from last year.

This year will also feature a large contingency from Tahiti. Master drummer, Heimanu Tehahe and his group Tamarii No Faaa will be performing both days as a feature exhibition during the competition. In addition, the cultural artisans will be conducting Tahitian dance and drumming workshops and have a group of crafters from Tahiti accompanying them as well.

Both days will feature Island and Tahitian crafters and vendors, island food and cultural demonstrations. It's a recipe for spending the day having a great time.

Daily admission is $5, children 6 and under free. Competition application deadline is July 28, 2008. If you wish to participate in the Heiva, please download the application on their website and send it in before the deadline. Craft vendor forms are also available online as well. Tahitian guest artists are available to pre-schedule private drumming workshops: call 808.822.9447

Event organizers - Sally Jo & Tepairu M. Manea

For more information and to download forms, visit the official event website.

Heiva Nui 2009 announced

Provo, Utah will once again host Heiva Nui, Tradewindz Voyage Inc.'s Tahitian dance competition next year. Dates were announced via their website - March 24-28, 2009. Registration will begin August 15, 2008. The dance group "Hei Tahiti" from Tahiti will be a special guest who will undoubtably be conducting workshops and performing. For more information, email them at info@officialtvi.com

Of note also is a design contest for all those interested in Tahitian culture. Try your hand at creating the official design for the 2009 event tshirt. A $100 reward will be the prize.

Heiva i Tahiti 2008

Heiva i Tahiti - the original, the one that started it all. Sometimes called "Tahiti Fete" and sometimes called "Tiurai Festival", the Heiva i Tahiti takes place each year during the month of July. Activities take place on all islands and include not only the largest Tahitian dance competition in the world, but also traditional sporting events including javelin throwing, stone lifting, coconut tree climbing and canoe racing.

The main dance competition takes place at Place To'ata in the middle of Papeete, Tahiti. The competition is spread out over several days and brings together the best dance groups throughout French Polynesia. On Tuesday, July 8, 2008, opening ceremonies commence and the competition runs through Saturday, July 12, 2008. Results will be announced the following Thursday, July 17, 2008 and Final performances from winning soloists and dancers will conclude the competition on Friday, July 18, 2008.

As always, the schedule is subject to change.


Tuesday, July 8, 2008
7:30 pm - Opening Ceremony

8:15-10:00 pm - Solo Competition

Scheduled soloists from dance groups
Group 1: Nohoarii, Nonahere, Teata Maohi, and Ahutoru Nui

Group 2: Tamarii Teahupoo, Tamarii Tipaerui, Te Ui No Pare Nui, and Toerau Tarehu


Wednesday, July 9, 2008
7:00 pm - Group Category - Creation
NOHOARII

8:00 pm - Song Category
Tarava Raromatai
TAMARII TIPAERUI

Tarava Tuhaa Pae
TOERAU TAREHU

9:00 pm - Group Category - Creation
NONAHERE


Thursday, July 10, 2008
7:00 pm - Song Category
tarava raromatai
TE IU NO PARE NUI

7:30 pm - Group Category - Heritage
TEATA MAOHI

8:30 pm - Song Category
Tarava Tahiti
VAIARI NUI

Tarava Tahiti
TAMARII MATAIEA

9:20 pm - Group Category - Creation
AHUTORU NUI


Friday, July 11, 2008
7:00 pm - Song Category
Tarava Raromatai
TEHAU NUI NO PIRAE UTA

7:30 pm - Dance Category - Creation
TAMARII TEAHUPOO

8:30 pm - Song Category
Tarava Tahiti
TAMARII PAPARA

Tarava Tuhaa Pae
HAUTIMATEA

9:20 pm - Dance Category - Heritage
TAMARII TIPAERUI


Saturday, July 12, 2008
7:00 pm - Song Category
Tarava Tahiti
UI API NO ARUE

7:30 pm - Dance Category - Heritage
TE IU NO PARE NUI

8:30 pm - Song Category
Tarava Raromatai
TEMARAMA

Tarava Raromatai
TAMARII FANATEA

9:20 pm - Dance Category - Heritage
TOERAU TAREHU


Thursday, July 17, 2008
7:00 pm - Welcome

7:15 pm - Song Category
Awards Ceremony

8:45 pm - Dance Awards Ceremony


Friday, July 18, 2008
7:00-10:45 pm - Welcome

Song Category Award Winners Exhibition
Group and Soloist Category Award Winners Exhibition

Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas 2009

Mark your calendar. Las Vegas will once again host a premiere Tahitian dance event next year. Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas, organized by KP and Tetua Ioane, have announced that May 30-31, 2009 will be the dates for next years event. Activities will once again take place at the Cox Pavilion on the UNLV campus. This will mark the 7th year of the heiva.

This years event had Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands, Tepanie O Patitifa and Na Pua Ilima O Kehaulani take top group honors. Soloists came from a number of different dance groups throughout the Western US.

Not only do KP and Tetua Ioane run the Tahiti Tuarua Nui I Las Vegas, they also organize a Lei Day festival in May every year as well. In addition, they also run their own dance group Tamaeva Arii. The noncompeting group holds dance classes on Saturdays and Sundays for ages 5 and older.

Calling all Tahitian dance enthusiastic writers

We'd love to keep all our readers up to date all the time. We're looking for roaming reporters to help with keeping up with results and the "story" at the many Tahitian dance events. We receive requests all the time asking about results and we post as many as we can get from event organizers, but sometimes we just can't get the results that we want.

If you are interested in becoming a "roaming reporter" or correspondent, please let us know. Send us a sample of your original written work about Tahitian dance. Approved contributors can receive store credit at our online store - Black Pearl Designs. If your contribution is published, you will receive a writers credit and credit at our online store (to be determined depending on extent of content). Upon approval, submitting writer gives permission for Black Pearl Designs to publish above content on their website and publications.

Email us for details and event reporting needs.

Current reporting needs:
Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete - Merced, CA
Tahiti Fete of San Jose - San Jose, CA
Heiva i Tahiti - Papeete, French Polynesia
Heiva i Reno - Reno, NV

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas solo and group results

Here's the results of the recent Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas which took place at the UNLV campus Cox Pavilion. Visit the official website for more information.

Tamarii Tamahine 5-8yrs
1. KENNEDY DRAGON of Le Polynesia
2. ALII ZAMORA of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. KIRSTEN WONG of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands

Tamarii Tamaroa 5-8 yrs
1. PALANI WILLINGHAM of Tevakanui

Tamarii Tamahine 9-12 yrs
1. ABIGAIL CAMACHO of Tevakanui
2. MELIA BERNAL of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. NANI KITASHIMA of Tevakanui

Tamarii Tamaroa 9-12 yrs
1. CHAZ WALTER of Tevakanui

Tamahine 13-17 yrs
1. LYDIA DAVILA of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
2. HEU TAUMOEFOLAU of Tevakanui
3. ALEX JOHNSON of Hitia O Te Ra

Tamaroa 13-17 yrs
1. THOMAS TAPUSOA of Tevakanui

Vahine Taurearea 18-24 yrs
1. VICTORIA ABATAY of Tupua
2. KRYSTLE COCADIZ of Hitia O Te Ra
3. MAHALENE DULAY of Hitia O Te Ra

Tane Taurearea 18-24 yrs
1. CHRIS CASELLA of Hitia O Te Ra

Vahine Ui Api 25-34 yrs
1. COLIE BERBANO of Tevakanui
2. MAKO SAKO of Le Polynesia
3. ANNA MALLARI of Tupua

Vahine Paari 34+ yrs
1. SHEILA KEIKILANI WALSTEAD of Le Polynesia
2. PINKY WRIGHT of Halau 'O Na Ali'i
3. MICHELLE SWANSON of Puahi's Polynesian Dancers

Vahine Paari Ora Toa Tahi
1. NORMA CHEEK of Puahi's Polynesian Dancers

Pupu Otea Amui
1. TEPANIE O PATITIFA

Pupu Otea Tamarii Api
1. LOKELANI'S RHYTHM OF THE ISLANDS of Huntington Beach, CA

Pupu Taurearea Otea
1. NA PUA ILIMA O KEHAULANI of Chula Vista, CA

Pupu Aparima Tamarii Api
1. LOKELANI'S RHYTHM OF THE ISLANDS of Huntington Beach, CA

Kauai Polynesian Festival honors

The 8th Annual Kauai Polynesian Festival took place in Lihue, Hawaii recently. Dance groups participated in not only Tahitian, but also Maori, Hawaiian and Samoan. Results for the Tahitian dance competition are listed below. Other results and information about the event are available on the Kauai Polynesian Festival official website. Event organizers also announced the dates for next years' event - May 21-24, 2009.

TAHITIAN GROUP OTEA
Junior Division
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
2. Tiare Ura O Tahiti of Kahuku, HI
3. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

Senior Division
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
2. Tiare Ura O Tahiti of Kahuku, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP OTEA BEST COSTUME:
Te Hamata of Laie, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP APARIMA
Junior Division
1. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

Senior Division
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP APARIMA BEST COSTUME
Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP AHUPUROTU
Senior Division
1. Ka pa Hula O Pualani Puamelia
2. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
3. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

TAHITIAN DRUMMING COMPETITION:
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
2. Manutahi of Wahiawa, HI
3. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

2008 OVERALL TAHITIAN GROUP
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI

ORI TAHITI SOLOISTS
Junior Division
Tane Ages 4-6
1. Qamdon Josue

Vahine Ages 4-6
1. Jeida Angelina Toilolo
2. Kaylee Tabangay
3. Leleaka Anakalea

Tane Ages 7-9
1. Troy Spacek

Vahine Ages 7-9
1. Tiare Naone Judd
2. Tehani Perkins
3. Dizhae Josue

Tane Ages 10-12
1. Jay Spacek
2. Zacchaus Uta
3. Tamatoa Uta

Vahine Ages 10-12
1. Maeleen Hopeau
2. Cami Keliinui
3. Sandy Hopeau

Senior Division
Tane Ages13-17
1. Moni Tiata
2. Emmsley James K. Drake
3. Rhansyn Leehong

Vahine Ages13-17
1. Chelsea Clement
2. Shayna Lei Soma
3. Lia Kaupoe

Tane Ages 18-21
1. James Taulog
2. Shane Galicia
3. Aaron Dung

Vahine Ages 18-21
1. Kauluwehiokekai Oliver
2. Cavalei Wilson
3. Kelcie Yoman

Tane Ages 22-25
1. Julian Maeva

Vahine Ages 22-25
1. Shaeja Lee
2. Leah Sausen

Tane Ages 26-30
1. Ambrose Aukustino

Vahine Ages 26-30
1. Pualani Avaeoru
2. Shannon Pauoli-Paraan
3. Alma Damo

Tane Ages 31-39
1. William Maycong

Vahine Ages 31-39
1. Belinda Miranda
2. Kehau Aina
3. Tasha Josue

Tane Ages 40 & Over
1. Gene Gabriel

Vahine Ages 40 & Over
1. Louse Sausen

TAHITIAN COUPLES COMPETITION
Junior Division
1. Tehani Perkins & Tamatoa Uta
2. Poerava Lee & Zacchaus Uta

Senior Division
1. Kirsten McCraken & Emmsley James Drake
2. Chelsea Clement & Kai Lee

OVERALL TANE & VAHINE POLYNESIA
2008 Tane Polynesia - Julian Maeva
2008 Vahine Polynesia - Kauluwehiokekai Oliver

Additional information can be found at the Kauai Polynesian Festival official website. Additional reporting at Kauai Garden Island News.

Schedule for the Tahiti Fete of San Jose

The Tahiti Fete of San Jose is getting ready. Tickets are now available on their website. According to the site, tickets are running $20 per day. Group tickets are available until May 31, 2008.

Activities:
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Solo Eliminations Gateway Ballroom
Double Tree Hotel San Jose 9:00am - 2:00pm

Friday, July 4, 2008
Solo Dance Finals
Ahuroa Group Dances
Tamarii (Children) Group performances
Polynesian Guest Performers
San Jose State University Event Center 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday, July 5, 2008
"Hura Ava Tau" - Amateur Groups
Drumming & Music Competition
Polynesian Guest Performers
San Jose State University Event Center 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Sunday, July 6, 2008
"Hura Tau" - Professional Group Dances
Polynesian Guest Performers
Symphony of Drums
Award Ceremonies
San Jose State University Event Center 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Video Passes are $25 a day or $55 for a Weekend Pass.

The DoubleTree Hotel San Jose is sold-out. The Holiday Inn San Jose (408) 993-1234 is offering a rate of $89 for up to 2 in a room and $99 for up to 4 in a room, two queen beds.

Heiva i Kauai schedule set

On August 2-3, 2008 the Kapaa Beach Park on Kauai will once again become the site of Heiva i Kauai. Now in its seventh year, the event features Tahitian dance solo, group and drumming competitions. The event will also feature multi-cultural exhibition dancing, singing and crafts. Vendors will have an array of items from South Pacific islands for sale.

Applications, contact information and more details are available online at the official website. Deadline for applicants is July 28, 2008. Admission is $5 per day and children 6 and under are free. Gates open on both days at 10am with competition and activities starting at 11am.

On Saturday afternoon, August 2nd and Sunday morning, August 3rd, multi-cultural workshops, including Tahitian dance, choreography, and drumming will be held. Solo competition will start on Saturday. Group competition will follow and continue through Sunday. Awards will be announced at the completion of competition on Sunday.

Te Mana O Te Ra presents Ha'amana'o

Color, dance, pageantry and music of Tahiti are but a few of the highlights you'll experience at Te Mana O Te Ra's Ha'amana'o... a time to remember. The event takes place on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California. Admission is $25, children (under 12) and seniors are $23. Tickets may be purchased by calling (925) 943-SHOW or by visiting www.lesherartscenter.org

If you would like more information, please contact Te Mana O Te Ra by calling (925) 943-5327 or emailing temanaotera@aol.com
It's an event for the whole family.

Heiva i Maui 2008 flyer

The 11th Annual Heiva i Maui is set to take place Friday-Sunday, August 8-10, 2008. Activities take place at the Maui War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku. On Friday the solo competition as well as Mr. & Miss Heiva i Maui crowning will take place from 6-10 pm. Saturday will continue with the solo competition and move to the group competition. Group competition will complete and awards will be given on Sunday. Both Saturday and Sunday's activities will run from 10 am - 6 pm.

For more information, inquiries or contacting organizers, please visit their website.

Tahitian dance shines at Waimea Valley - Manutahi Tahiti

Amid the lush tropical rainforest venue, Tahitian dance was alive and well at the recent Manutahi Tahiti Solo Competition. With approximately 300 dancers, vendors, family and guests, the event was a fun and entertaining way to spend the day with family and friends. Auntie Pola Teriipaia and her dedicated staff worked hard to create a family friendly atmosphere and the audience couldn't have been more happy.

Tiare Ura O Tahiti's Cami Keliinui of Hau'ula, was crowned the Overall Soloist as well as the Junior Overall Soloist. The Senior Overall Soloist award went to Jacinda Tavares from Matari'i Tahiti, based in Kalihi. Soloists from several other groups on Oahu also competed including Otea Kia Mana, Here Tama Nui, Te E'a o te Turama, Oriata, Marania Haoragi, Tamarii a Hiva, and Tiare Apetahi.

Judging the competition were veteran and familiar dance instructors including Camelia Temanaha, Ketsia Estall, Roiti Sylva, Regina Pasi, Charlie Temanaha and Pola Teriipaia.

Complementing all the beautiful dancers was a great selection of vendors who showcased many stunning and unique pieces of Tahitian arts and crafts. Among the vendors were B & B Tahitian Black Pearls, Tahitian Arts & Crafts by Elisa, Fatu's Carvings In Art, Mehetia Productions, Roiti Sylva, Brenda Perkins, Lucy Fonoimoana, Elaine Ortas and Te Vai Ura Nui.

Alma Damo, head of Promotions/Marketing for Manutahi Tahiti, revealed that many of the Tahitian black pearls given as prizes were courtesy of Auntie Pola's new line Polanesia. Many of the trophies were crafted by Manutahi's board members and parents. "We really wanted to reward the participants for their desire and love of Tahitian dance and nowadays when awards and trophies rarely represent the essence of Tahiti, we wanted to reinforce that."

Awards for Manutahi Tahiti 2008
Age 5-6 Tamahine
1. Randee Maiava of Oriata
2. Kaylee Tabangay of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Randi Love of Here Tama Nui

Age 5-6 Tamaroa
1. Myka Gualdarama of Otea Kia Mana
2. Skyler Ramos of Here Tama Nui

Age 7-8 Tamahine
1. Vaekehu parker of Marania Haoragi
2. Chloe Domingo of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Kaila Scanlan-Kaai of Marania Haoragi

Age 9-11 Tamahine
1. Cami Keliinui of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2. Poerava Lee of Te'e'aoteturama
3. Shandy Hopeau of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Junior Overall Soloist
Cami Keliinui of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Age 12-14 Vahine
1. Shayna Lei Soma of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2. Aulani Pung of Tiare Apetahi
3. Shannalein Replogle of Here Tama Nui

Age 15-17 Vahine
1. Jacinda Tavares of Matari'i Tahiti
2. Alexa-Ashley Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Candace Maria of Otea Kia Mana

Age 18-21 Vahine
1. Tanya Cadiente of Otea Kia Mana
2. Kawena Otineru of Otea Kia Mana

Senior Overall Soloist
Jacinda Tavares of Matari'i Tahiti

Overall Soloist
Cami Keliinui of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Overall Pupu Ori/Most Points
Tiare Ura O Tahiti - Jerrold Martinez, Ra'atira

Most Winning Soloists
Tiare Ura O Tahiti - Jerrold Martinez, Ra'atira

Dancers who would like to order photos can contact Andrew Bryant Simms via his website at simmsstudio.com, call him at 808-383-0548, or visiting www.manutahi.com.

The event was sponsored by Waimea Valley, Hinano, Polanesia, Tehani Trading Co., Cookie Corner, Germaine's Luau and Pearlridge Shopping Center.

Waimea Valley has also confirmed that they will be hosting next years event and again be sharing the Tahitian culture with more of the North Shore. Mark your calendar and visit the Manutahi Tahiti website for more information.

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas 2008

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas is coming May 24-25. Now in its sixth year, the event, produced by Tetua Ioane features both solo and group competitions. At least 24 groups or soloists representing Tahitian dance groups throughout the nation are scheduled to perform.

Tickets are $17 per day ($12 for children ages 2-12) and can be purchased by calling UNLV Ticket Call Center at (702) 739-FANS (3267) or (866) 388-FANS (3267). You can also order online at www.UNLVtickets.com

Event information, group applications and questions can be referred to
Tetua Ioane
Tamaeva Arii, Inc.
P.O. Box 70988
Las Vegas, NV 89170 U.S.A.

Tele: (702) 251-5793
Fax: (702) 220-9308

Visit the event website for more details.

Te Aranui O Tahiti 2008

Have you ever wondered what exactly the judges are looking for when they watch soloists and groups? Te Aranui O Tahiti 2008 took that very question and conducted a series of workshops for soloists and groups. Dancers from Merahi O Tehani, Tamali'i, Ka Ua Tuahine, Na Hoku of Canada and Nemenzo participated in the workshops. Guests Coco Hotahota and Roiti Sylva conducted the class, breaking down basic steps necessary in a solo dance competition routine. Correct execution, spelling and terminology of each of the steps was emphasized. As the drummers were creating the atmosphere, each student presented a freestyle solo. An evaluation score sheet covering all the workshop dance steps and critiques was given to each student. An open discussion session with the guests concluded the class workshop.

It's rare that dancers are given the opportunity to work one-on-one on the details with the very judges that they perform in front of at other competitions throughout the year.

Always a crowd pleaser, the event also featured group presentations. Te Orama, 'Ote'a 'Api, Tiare O Te Ao and Nemenzo impressed with 'Ote'a and Aparima. Coco commented regarded the weekend activities as "tres beau". Te Aranui O Te Ao (TAOT) 2009 will take place April 25 and 26, 2009 at the San Francisco State University Gym. Mark your calendars and check our site for updates. For more information, visit the official site.

Fano Maohi Heiva postponed

Well, it's a bit late and we apologize for not getting this information out sooner. We've been busy trying to keep up with orders and introducing our new Tehani Pareo to the public. We're trying to get back on track and have some updates. The first update is news of the postponement of the Fano Maohi Heiva. The event is to now take place August 15-16, 2008. Originally, it was to take place last weekend but organizers decided recently to combine their two events into one. Their other event is a Tonga Tau'o'lunga Dance Festival. That event will take place a day before on August 14th.

We'll keep tabs on this event and try to get more details as it gets closer to the event date.

Heiva Nui 2008 - Provo, Utah

Just announced - Heiva Nui, a Tahitian dance competition in Provo, Utah will take place June 20-21, 2008 at Tahitian Noni International. The annual event now in its fifth year is part of a festival sponsored by Tradewindz Voyage Incorporated.

Activities include a scholarship pageant, dance group and solo competitions. For more information, registration and tickets, please visit their website - http://www.officialtvi.com - email them at info@officialtvi.com or call (801) 380-1298.

Hawaiian Merrie Monarch Festival features Te Vai Ura Nui exhibition

The recent victory of Charles and Cathy Temanaha's Te Vai Ura Nui Tahitian dance group has opened up an opportunity for the group to perform at Hawaii's premier Hula competition in Hilo, Hawaii - The Merrie Monarch Festival. This wasn't the first time that the group performed at the festival, but it's been four years since their last performance there.

The group repeated their award-winning performance from last month's Heiva i Honolulu. Choreographed by the Temanaha's, it is a love story called "Manino and Fanovai." It tells of an ancient Tahitian tale where the men are fishing while the women wait on the shore. When the men return with the speared fish, the women greet and surround them as if to make a living net.

As they return, a brave young fisherman catches the eye of a young maiden. He makes his desire known but her father doesn't approve. The father believes that the young man will not be able to provide for his daughter. Yet, the couples love continues to grown and is seen as they perform a couples' dance together. The young man's friends show their support by performing rigorous haka and the girls show their approval as well by performing a slow and graceful aparima. It all comes to a happy ending as the couple is married and all celebrate the new couples' life together.

With so much passion for their performance and desire to tell a story, it's no wonder Te Vai Ura Nui came away with top honors at the competition last month.

To perform at Hawaii's Merrie Monarch Festival is seen as a great privilege. The festival's main activities run Thursday (Miss Aloha Hula), Friday (Hula Kahiko) and Saturday (Hula Au'wana) April 3-5, 2008.

Manutahi Orlando impresses at Tamari'i Tahiti Fete

This past weekend saw the Tamari'i Tahiti Fete of Orlando take center stage in the Tahitian dance community. Family, competitors and guests gathered at Oak Ridge High School Gymnasium to watch this growing solo competition.

Tamari'i Tahiti Fete of Orlando saw an impressive showing from Manutahi Orlando. The group is a branch of the main group based on Oahu in Hawaii headed by Pola Teriipaia. Locally it is headed by Mahea Apo.

The competition was opened up to all ages this year. Visit the official website for more details and information about the event.

http://tamariifete.kpohana.com/index.html

2008 Solo Ori Winners
Ages 3-5
Vahine
1. Leilani Swider of Manutahi Orlando
2. Laniloa Mau'ia of Manutahi Orlando
3. Alyssa Murpy of Halau 'O Manulani

Ages 6-8
Vahine
1. Elaina Nevarez of Na Opiopio I Orlando
2. Amya Diaz of Halau 'O Manulani

Ages 9-12
Vahine
1. Natalie Oloa, Independent
2. Cheyenne Sky Romanillos, Independent
3. Melinda Nevarez of Na Opiopio I Orlando

Ages 13-16
Vahine
1. Chiana Jim of Manutahi Orlando
2. Marshae Bray Mamea of Siva 'A Manu
3. Giovanni Brown of Manutahi Orlando

Ages 17-22
Vahine
1. Grace Cabusi of Manutahi Orlando
2. Marlena Samuels of Siva 'A Manu
3. Tasi Galeai of Touch of Paradise

Ages 23 and up
Vahine
1. Celena Kaleonahenahe Faronda of Halau Kahealani

Tane
1. Tony Paialii of Touch of Paradise

Samoan Category
1. Priscilla Tauti of Halau Kahealani

..................................................

2008 Special Awards
Overall Junior Soloist
Elaina Nevarez of Na Opiopio I Orlando

Overall Senior Soloist
Tony Paialii of Touch of Paradise

Best Costume
Tiane Maluhia Kong of Manutahi Orlando

Overall Perpetual Group
Manutahi Orlando (Mahea Apo)