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.