Heiva i Honolulu crowns Grand Champions

Vahine of Maohi Nui

If you made it to the Waikiki Shell last weekend, you were in good company. Over 2,000 onlookers as well as Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle, and the reigning Mrs. America Lara Fonoimoana, dropped by to experience the pageantry, music, drumming and dancing of performers from over 35 Tahitian dance groups at this years Heiva i Honolulu. You no doubt were able to see a weekend full of award winning Tahitian dance performances highlighted by the Grand Champion crowning. In fact, two Grand Champions were crowned, Heretama Nui (Pearl City, Hawaii), who was defending their Hura Tau Overall Ote'a title, and Tamatoa (Kaneohe, Hawaii) with the Hura Ava Tau Overall Ote'a award.

It was a weekend full of colorful and extravagant costumes, original Aparima music, and dance themes ranging from Hawaiian legends (Pele, Pu'uloa) to traditional Tahitian themes based on the tiare flower, the beauty of vahine (woman), love and light, monoi and the warmth of a new day took the stage with dance groups and soloists.

Solo competition took place on Thursday, the first day of the competition. Dancers were divided up into vahine and tane age categories. Over 150 soloists took the stage and gave their all demonstrating their skills, endurance, costumes and charisma to the audience and judges. Awards were announced and the 1st place dancers of each category moved on to compete in the Overall award that was decided on Saturday. The overall vahine, Agnes Manuma (27-35 Vahine) of Maohi Nui was awarded a $2,000 Tahitian black pearl necklace and bracelet. The overall tane award went to Shane Galicia of Tiare Ura O Tahiti.

Friday was the start of group competition. Hura Ava Tau groups, which are the groups that are newer and have had less competition experience, took the stage with Tamatoa, the eventual Hura Ava Tau Grand Champion, starting off with their Ahupurotu presentation.

Hura Tau groups performed Saturday with competition in several categories including Vahine Ahupurotu (a more formal and graceful dance done in long traditional dresses), drumming (demonstrating proficiency in all traditional beats after which a creative section follows), and Overall Ote'a (which includes an Aparima, Paoa, and Ote'a). The Overall Ote'a presentation for groups had a maximum 30 minutes to tell their story with song, dance and drumming.

Heiva i Honolulu 2012 celebrated their 10th anniversary this year - Ahuru ra'a o te Matahiti
Participating groups in the Hura Tau division included Heretama Nui (Jimmy Ramento, Christopher Ramento) of Pearl City, Maohi Nui (Mervyn Lilo) of Aiea, Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui (Kevin & Aulii Kama) of Honolulu, and Te Iriatai Ora (Keali'i Bush) also of Honolulu. Tamatoa (Tino Moe) of Kaneohe, Puahinano (Pualani Horiuchi) of Okinawa, Japan, Te Hei Ura (Kapua Hau'oli, PuaUra Nishida) of Osaka, Japan, Te Mahana O Te Ra (Ku'uleinani Hashimoto) Tahiti Mana (Manari'i Gauthier) of Honolulu all competed in the Hura Ava Tau division.

Without further ado, here are the results. For additional information, feel free to visit the event website - Tahiti Nui International.

Heiva I Honolulu 2012 Group Award Results

OVERALL Tane ~ Shane Galicia / Tiare Ura O Tahiti
OVERALL Vahine ~ Agnes Manuma / Maohi Nui

HURA AVA TAU DIVISION (Junior)


Vahine Ahupurotu


1st Place      Te Mahana O Te Ra
2nd Place    Te Hei Ura
3rd Place     Tahiti Mana

Tupuna Ahupurotu

1st Place     Te Mahana O Te Ra
2nd Place    Te Hei Ura

Aparima

1st Place     Te Mahana O Te Ra
2nd Place    Puahinano

Original Aparima

1st Place     Tamatoa
2nd Place    Te Hei Ura

Drumming

1st Place     Tamatoa
2nd Place    Te Hei Ura

Otea

1st Place     Tamatoa
2nd Place    Te Mahana O Te Ra
3rd Place     Te Hei Ura

GRAND CHAMPION 2012

Tamatoa


HURA TAU DIVISION (Senior)



Vahine Ahupurotu

1st Place      Maohi Nui
2nd Place    Heretama Nui
3rd Place     Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

Original Aparima

1st Place     Heretama Nui
2nd Place    Maohi Nui
3rd Place     Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

Drumming

1st Place     Heretama Nui
2nd Place    Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
3rd Place     Maohi Nui

Otea

1st Place     Heretama Nui
2nd Place    Maohi Nui
3rd Place     Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

Best Ra'atira ~ Heretama Nui
Best Costume ~ Heretama Nui
Best Couple ~ Heretama Nui

GRAND CHAMPION 2012

Heretama Nui

HEIVA I HONOLULU 2012 SOLO AWARD Results


TAMARI'I DIVSION

4-6 Tamahine

1st Place  Dionisia Robinson / Manutahi
2nd Place  Quynn Bonilla / Maohi Nui
3rd Place Chardonnay Kinimaka / Maohi Nui

4-6 Tamaroa

1st Place Saige Marienthal / Here Tama Nui
2nd Place Matagi Lilo / Maohi Nui
3rd Place Jamie Wond / Here Tama Nui

7-10 Tamahine

1st Place Nicole Graham / Tamatoa
2nd Place  Alana Nicely / Here Tama Nui
3rd Place Chasmine Drumeller / Manutahi
4th Place Hana Fujisaki / Tokariga Kaloke Mele Mele

7-10 Tamaroa

1st Place Jiovanni Tafisi / Maohi Nui
2nd Place Alize Kinimaka / Maohi Nui
3rd Place Kainoa-Sagon Sumaoang / Manutahi

TAURE'ARE'A DIVISION

11-13 Tamahine

1st Place Nagisa Takizawa / Tokariga Kaloke Mele Mele
2nd Place Tehani Perkins / Te Vai Ura Nui
3rd Place Cassandra Kanoho / Te Vai Ura Nui
4th Place Brooke Leslie / HereTama Nui

11-13 Tamaroa

1st Place Kailana Savonitman / Tamatea Nui O Kauai

14-17 Tamahine

1st Place Naomi Baldomero / Te Vai Ura Nui
2nd Place Kayli Taniguchi / Here Tama Nui
3rd Place Sammy McClymonds / Hitia O Te Ra

14-17 Tamaroa

1st Place Zacchaeus Uta / Te Vai Ura Nui
2nd Place Tamatoa Uta / Te Vai Ura Nui

VAHINE & TANE DIVISION

18-21 Vahine

1st Place Poerava Goo / Tahiti toa
2nd Place Chelsea Clement / Maohi Nui
3rd Place Charzelle Fuller-McAngus / Maohi Nui

18-21 Tane

1st Place Okuto Horiuchi / Puahinano
2nd Place Keanu-Neil Mesiona / Manutahi
3rd Place Tripler Fiapai / Maeva I Patitifa

22-26 Vahine

1st Place Pua Baker / Maohi Nui
2nd Place Ayumi Asano / Tokariga Kaloke Mele Mele
3rd Place Shantee Hookano / Te Iriatai Ora

22-26 Tane

1st Place Shane Galicia / Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2nd Place Peter Flores / Tahiti Toa
3rd Place Takafumi "Teva" Gima / Puahinano

27-35 Vahine

1st Place Agnes Manuma / Maohi Nui
2nd Place Maki Ito / Hei Tiare Tahiti
3rd Place Ronelle Dement / Te Iriatai Ora
4th Place Nihaniya Sam Fong / Te Iriatai Ora

27-35 Tane

1st Place  Manarii Gauthier / Tahiti Mana
2nd Place Julian Maeva / Maeva I Patitifa
3rd Place Daniel Sherman / Te Vai Ura Nui

36-45 Vahine

1st Place Belinda Miranda / Manutahi
2nd Place Analyn Koeger / Maeva I Patitifa
3rd Place Kozue Oumuma / Hei Tiare Tahiti

36-45 Tane

1st Place Lawakua Gabriel / Manutahi

46 and more Vahine

1st Place Hei Tiare Komatsu / Hei Tiare Tahiti
2nd Place Pualani Horiuchi / Puahinano
3rd Place Chizuko Seta / Te Mahana O Te Ra

Heiva calendar updates for 2012

It's been a few months since we've posted any updates on the blog but we were a little busy trying to get our new Tahitian dance database up and running. It's almost there for Phase I and it has updated group information as much as we have been able to gather. We are specifically looking for dance groups that dance Tahitian. In the future we may expand, but for now, we are staying focused on Tahiti.

Along with the dance group directory, we have the Tahitian Heiva events calendar. As with everything on the new site, things are in a work in progress. We are working to make it more accessible for dance group leaders and event producers. In addition, we are working on a new awards area. It will be searchable and clickable to allow for multiple ways of accessing the information.

So if you are looking for a calendar of events for next year, look no further, we are continually working with event producers and have the most up-to-date information available. Check back often for updates or sign up for updates via Twitter, Facebook or RSS feed.

Events that have updated 2012 dates include Heiva i Honolulu, Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete , Hura Tahiti, Tahiti Fete of San Jose, Heiva i Kauai, Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas and Ori Tahiti Las Vegas, to name a few.

More to come on our new website for Tahitian dance.

Oh, by the way... it's

www.ipolynesia.com

Check it out and look for more information about its official debut coming soon.

HereTama Nui takes Heiva I Honolulu title

In front of a nearly full seating capacity, defending local Tahitian dance group Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui of Waipi'o nearly walked away with a second title but in the end it was the inspiring performance of HereTama Nui of Pearl City who claimed top honors at this years Heiva I Honolulu. Led by brothers Allen and Christopher Ramento as well as guidance from their mother Denise Ramento, the group brought the crowd to their feet with their program themed to the legends of the bamboo. The dance group not only took the overall title, the group also was awarded several soloist awards, 1st place in the very competitive Drumming category, 1st place in Ahupurotu, the Best Costume award and Best Ra'atira.

"It's like watching the Heiva in Tahiti," commented Roiti Sylva, one of five on the judging panel at Heiva I Honolulu. She added that the event was unique because in addition to all the traditions of Tahiti it also added the storied background and experience of many dancers and musicians involved in the Hawaiian hula community. The event is also unique because of the support received by sponsors both here in Hawaii and Tahiti. Tahiti Pearl Market, based in Tahiti donated many black pearls and cash for the awards. Aloha Hula Supply, based in Honolulu, donated cash and gift certificates. Tihati Productions, also of Honolulu and a major provider of Polynesian dance performances for the tourism industry in Hawaii also was a major sponsor. Other sponsors included Tahitian Instruments by Chief Miko (drums), Black Pearl Designs (promotions and marketing), Polynesian Cultural Center (prizes including tickets to the new show "Ha"), Cabana Vacation Suites (official hotel), City and County of Honolulu (facilities), Hula Supply Center, and Tahiti Imports.

The event was held at the Waikiki Shell over the weekend. Fourteen dance groups from Hawaii, Japan and the mainland competed in aparima, ahupurotu, drumming and the overall category consisting of paoa, hivinau, and the fast paced ote'a. In addition, 31 dance groups were represented by nearly 180 soloists.

Soloist Lucie Wilson (Laie, HI) from the group Ranihere took to the stage to claim the overall Vahine award and DJ Kekuaokalani of Nonosina Hawaii, also from Laie, took the overall Tane title. Awards for each age group were given to both vahine and tane. Dancers ranged from the very youngest (4 years old) to the more experienced 36 and "beautiful" and "handsome" as Masters of Ceremony, Cathy Teriipaia, Teriimana Mo'o and members of the local music group Vaihi graciously introduced each age group.

In the Hura Ava Tau (Jr) group division, Tiare Heipua, a group from Japan who also claimed last Septembers' Heiva I Japan title, was awarded the overall junior group title. This is the third consecutive year they have won the title here in Honolulu. Their award-winning performance was based on the colors of the rainbow. The group is led by group leader (ra'atira pupu) Heikapua Sabarsah.

"This success is due to the support received from the near one hundred volunteers, the unaccounted hours from the Board and administrative team, the dance groups and ra'atira pupu, vendors, and from sponsors," stated Raymond Mariteragi, President of Tahiti Nui International. "I've received numerous calls from group leaders, dancers, and parents expressing their joy for the way the Heiva was run," added Rose Perreira, Senior Vice President and Event Coordinator.

Without further delay, here are the results of Heiva I Honolulu 2010

SOLOIST AWARDS

AGE 4-6 TAMAHINE
1. Tiffany Alcos of HereTama Nui
2. Jazzlyn Samuseav of Marania Haoragi
3. Kiana Aniya of HereTama Nui

AGE 4-6 TAMAROA
1. Kaleb Poniatowski of HereTama Nui
2. Jason Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii

AGE 7-10 TAMAHINE
1. Momoka Narita of Tiare Heipua
2. Ku'umanu Kupau of Maohi Nui
3. Lily Sabarsah of Tiare Heipua

AGE 7-10 TAMAROA
1. Skyler Ramento of HereTama Nui
2. Jordan Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Mykle Keni of Nonosina Hawaii

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAHINE
1. Denise Robinson of Manutahi Tahiti
2. Miyu Mitsuhashi of Tiare Heipua
3. Jazmine Melchor of Maohi Nui

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAROA
1. JD Melchor of Maohi Nui
2. Ronson Farin-Yadao of Manutahi Tahiti
3. Kaiko Gouveia of HereTama Nui

AGE 14-17 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAHINE
1. Charzell McAngus of Maohi Nui
2. Kiana Gordon of Te Mana O Te Ra
3. Angela Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

AGE 14-17 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAROA
1. Keenan Chung of Maohi Nui
2. Keanu Neill-Mesiona of Manutahi Tahiti

AGE 18-21 VAHINE
1. Lucie Wilson of Ranihere
2. Poerava Goo of Tahiti Toa
3. Alexa Ashley Cezr of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

AGE 18-21 TANE
1. Peter Flores of Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

AGE 22-26 VAHINE
1. Heather Jose of Te Vai Ura Nui
2. Ai Yoneda of Tiare Heipua
3. Kapua De Ramos of Maohi Nui

AGE 22-26 TANE
1. Keawe McArthur of Maohi Nui
2. Glenn Salonga of Manuia
3. Joseph Pauole of HereTama Nui

AGE 27-35 VAHINE
1. Ayuka Hattori of Tiare Heipua
2. Chiharu Yamazaki of Tiare Heipua
3. Melanie Esquerra, Independent

AGE 27-35 TANE
1. DJ Kekuaokalani of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Jonathan Ulibas of Maohi Nui
3. Ken Watada of Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

AGE 36 & ABOVE
1. Miyako Konishide of Tiare Heipua
2. Kaori Torita of Marama Hau Nui
3. Kaori Yamamoto of Te Hei Ura Polynesian Studio

AGE 36 & ABOVE
1. Alvin Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Lawakua Gabriel of Manutahi Tahiti

OVERALL VAHINE
 
Lucie Wilson of Ranihere

OVERALL TANE
 
DJ Kekuaokalani of Nonosina Hawaii
 
 
GROUP AWARDS

HURA AVA TAU (JR) APARIMA
1. Tiare Heipua
 Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, and Heitiare Komatsu - Ishikawa, Japan
2. Marama Hau Nui
 Masako Ishibashi - Kamakura, Japan
3. Mehetia Productions
 Charelle Kahanuala Silva - Kaneohe, HI

HURA AVA TAU (JR) AHUPUROTU
1. Tiare Heipua
 Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, and Heitiare Komatsu - Ishikawa, Japan
2. Hot Lavalava Productions
 Naninohea and Kahealani Kapana - Honolulu, HI
3. Mehetia Productions
 Charelle Kahanuala Silva - Kaneohe, HI

HURA AVA TAU (JR) DRUMMING
1. Tiare Ura O Tahiti
 Jerrold Martinez - Aiea, HI
2. Tiare Heipua
 Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, and Heitiare Komatsu - Ishikawa, Japan

MAMA RUAU AHUPUROTU
1. Te Vai Ura Nui
 Charles and Cathy Temanaha. - Honolulu, HI
2. Te Hei Ura Polynesian Studio
 Kapuahau'oli Arai and Kazue "PuaUra" Nishida. - Hyogo, Japan

HURA TAU (SR) AHUPUROTU
1. HereTama Nui
 Allen Ramento, Christopher Ramento and Denise Ramento - Pearl City, HI
2. Te Vai Ura Nui
 Charles and Cathy Temanaha. - Honolulu, HI
3. Nonosina Hawaii
 JonRaymond and Tiani Mariteragi - Laie, HI

HURA TAU (SR) DRUMMING
1. HereTama Nui
 Allen Ramento, Christopher Ramento and Denise Ramento - Pearl City, HI
2. Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
 Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI
3. Maohi Nui
 Mervyn Lilo - Aiea, HI

HURA AVA TAU - JUNIOR OVERALL
1. Tiare Heipua
 Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, and Heitiare Komatsu - Ishikawa, Japan
2. Tamatoa
 Tino Moe - Kaneohe, HI
3. Tiare Ura O Tahiti
 Jerrold Martinez - Aiea, HI

HURA TAU - SENIOR OVERALL
1. HereTama Nui
 Allen Ramento, Christopher Ramento and Denise Ramento - Pearl City, HI
2. Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
 Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI
3. Nonosina Hawaii
 JonRaymond and Tiani Mariteragi - Laie, HI

COSTUME
HereTama Nui
 Allen Ramento, Christopher Ramento and Denise Ramento - Pearl City, HI

RA'ATIRA 
HereTama Nui
 Allen Ramento, Christopher Ramento and Denise Ramento - Pearl City, HI

PERPETUAL TROPHY - JUNIOR
 
Tiare Heipua
 Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

PERPETUAL TROPHY - SENIOR
 
HereTama Nui
 Allen Ramento, Christopher Ramento and Denise Ramento - Pearl City, HI

More information, videos and photos may be found at the official website of Tahiti Nui International, www.tahitinuiinternational.com

Soloists beat

With Heiva i Honolulu starting today, soloists will be vying for this years' overall award. All age groups are eligible. But if you aren't able to compete, there are several other events coming up throughout the year.

In fact, if you want to really get in tune and sync with the beat, check out Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas' website. They have the soloist beat online so you can download, listen and practice your routine over and over. Add it to your iPod. There may be some slight variations at the actual event, but you should be able to practice and anticipate timing. There are many who are very creative and this would allow even more planning on their part.

So if you are planning on participating in the event, this is a must. Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas takes place May 29-30, 2010 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tickets are $20 per person per day (children’s tickets ages 2-12 $15 each) available at the UNLV Ticket Call Center (702) 739-FANS (3267) or (866) 388-FANS (3267).

Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui on Hawaii News Now

If you are on Oahu or can catch Honolulu's KFVE Monday morning, you might recognize the Tahitian dance group Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui. Some of their dancers, musicians and ra'atira will be performing live at 8:20 am. The group is the 2009 defending Hura Tau (Sr) Overall group and will be competing with some of the best groups around at this years upcoming Heiva i Honolulu later this week, March 18-20 at the Waikiki Shell.

It's an exciting time for Tahitian dance as this is the first major event of the new year. It's also one of the largest events as well. Fourteen groups from Hawaii, Japan and the mainland, will be performing over the three day festival and competition. Along with group competition, soloists will also be vying for the coveted overall title.

Tickets for the event are $15, $10 for children (4-10). Available at the Waikiki Shell box office, Blaisdell Ticket outlets in Macy's and the box office at the Blaisdell Center. Online, you can find tickets at ticketmaster.com

Check out the Hawaii News Now video here »

Ready for Heiva i Honolulu?

Living in Kaneohe, we're increasingly noticing more drumming coming from the Ko'olau parks. It's time for Heiva i Honolulu and the start of this years Tahitian dance competition calendar. This is the 8th annual event hosted at the Waikiki Shell. Activities take place March 18-20 and run from noon on Thursday. Friday and Saturday will have a full days schedule starting at 9am on both days. General admission is $15, children 4-10 are $10.

There are 14 groups competing hailing from Hawaii, Japan and the Mainland.

HERE TAMA NUI
Allen Ramento and Christopher Ramento - Honolulu, HI

HOT LAVALAVA
Naninohea & Kahealani Kapana - Honolulu, HI

IA ORA O TAHITI NUI
Kevin and Aulii Kama - Waipi'o, HI

MAOHI NUI
Mervyn Lilo - Aiea, HI

MARAMA HAU NUI
Masako Ishibashi - Kamakura, Japan

MEHETIA PRODUCTIONS
Charelle Silva - Kaneohe, HI

NONOSINA HAWAII
JonRaymond & Tiani Mariteragi - Laie, HI

OTE'A KIA MANA
Dennis Kia, Robyn Williams, Kapeka Hoffmann, Hauoli Kia-Napaepae - Mililani, HI

TAMATOA
Tino Moe - Kaneohe, HI

TE HEI URA/HAUOLI POLYNESIAN STUDIO
Kapuahau'oli Arai and Kazue 'PuaUra' Nishida - Hyogo, Japan

TE MANA O TE RA
Lisa & Ray Aguilar - Walnut Creek, CA

TE VAI URA NUI
Charles Temanaha - Honolulu, HI

TIARE HEIPUA
Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, Heitiare Komatsu - Ishikawa, Japan

TIARE URA O TAHITI
Jerrold Martinez - Aiea, HI


The schedule is full of multiple performances by many of the groups. This year will also see both the Hura Tau (Sr) and Hura Ava Tau (Jr) Overall groups defending their titles. Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui will attempt to take home the award for the second time and Tiare Heipua will try for three in a row.

Here is the group performance schedule:

THURSDAY – MARCH 18, 2010

12:00 pm Gate and Booths open to the Public

1:30 pm Greetings & Welcome
Orero by Heremoana Maamaatuaiiahutapu
Acknowledgements:
VIPs, Emcees, Judges, & House drummers

2:00 pm – SOLO COMPETITION - ROUNDS 1 & 2
(More skirts for the Vahine and Maro for the Tane)

Tamari’i Division:
2 - 3 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa (Exhibition)
4 - 6 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa
7 - 10 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa

Taure’are’a Division:
11 - 13 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa
14 - 17 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa

BREAK

Vahine/Tane Division:
18 – 21 yrs: Vahine & Tane
22 – 26 yrs: Vahine & Tane
27 – 35 yrs: Vahine & Tane

Ta’ata Pa’ari Division:
36yrs & above: Vahine & Tane


FRIDAY - MARCH 19, 2010

8:30 am Gate and Booths open to the Public

9:00 am Greetings & Welcome
Pure (Blessing) by invitation
Acknowledgement of the VIPs, Emcees, & Judges

9 :30 am – SOLO COMPETITION - FINALISTS
(Tahitian printed pareu for the Vahine & Tihere for the Tane)

Tamari’i Division
4 - 6 yrs, 7 - 10 yrs. Tamahine & Tamaroa
Taure’are’a Division
11 - 13 yrs, 14 - 17 yrs. Tamahine & Tamaroa
Vahine/Tane Division
18 - 21 yrs, 22 -26 yrs, 27 -35 yrs. Vahine & Tane
Ta’ata Pa’ari Division
36 yrs & above Vahine & Tane
11:30 am – GROUP COMPETITION

11:30 am TIARE URA O TAHITI – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – OVERALL
Jerrold Martinez (Ra’atira pupu) – Aiea, HI

12:30 pm MEHETIA PRODUCTIONS – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – AHUPUROTU
Charelle Silva (Ra’atira pupu) – Kaneohe, HI

1:00 pm TIARE URA O TAHITI – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – DRUMMING
Jerrold Martinez (Ra’atira pupu) – Aiea, HI

BREAK: 1:30 – 2:00 pm

2:00 pm TIARE HEIPUA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – DRUMMING
Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, Heitiare Komatsu (Ra’atira pupu) – Ishikawa, Japan

2:30 pm HOT LAVALAVA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – AHUPUROTU
Naninohea & Kahealani Kapana (Ra’atira pupu) – Honolulu, HI

3:00 pm TIARE HEIPUA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – APARIMA
Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, Heitiare Komatsu (Ra’atira pupu) – Ishikawa, Japan

3:30 pm HOT LAVALAVA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – OVERALL
Naninohea & Kahealani Kapana (Ra’atira pupu) – Honolulu, HI

4:30 pm MEHETIA PRODUCTIONS – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – APARIMA
Charelle Silva (Ra’atira pupu) – Kaneohe, HI

5:00 pm TIARE HEIPUA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – OVERALL
Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, Heitiare Komatsu (Ra’atira pupu) – Ishikawa, Japan

BREAK: 6:00 – 6:30 pm

6:30 pm TIARE HEIPUA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – AHUPUROTU
Heikapua Sabarsah, Pualani Horiushi, Heitiare Komatsu (Ra’atira pupu) – Ishikawa, Japan

7:00 pm MARAMA HAU NUI – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – APARIMA
Masako Ishibashi (Ra’atira pupu) – Kamakura, Japan

7:30 pm TE VAI URA NUI – Tupuna – AHUPUROTU
Charles Temanaha (Ra’atira pupu) – Honolulu, HI

8:00 pm TE VAI URA NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) – AHUPUROTU
Charles Temanaha (Ra’atira pupu) – Honolulu, HI

8:30 pm TAMATOA – Hura Ava Tau (Jr) – OVERALL
Tino Moe (Ra’atira pupu) – Kaneohe, HI


SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 2010

8:30 am Gate and Booths open to the Public

9:00 am Greetings & Welcome
Pure (Blessing) by invitation
Acknowledgement of the VIPs, Emcees, & Judges

9 :30 am – SOLO COMPETITION - OVERALL
(Tahitian printed pareu for the Vahine & Tihere for the Tane)

10:30 am – GROUP COMPETITION

10:30 am TE HEI URA POLYNESIAN STUDIO – Tupuna – AHUPUROTU
Kapuahau’oli Arai and Kazue “PuaUra” Nishida (Ra’atira pupu) Hyogo, Japan

11:00 am HERE TAMA NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) – AHUPUROTU
Allen Ramento and Christopher Ramento (Ra’atira pupu) Honolulu, HI

11:30 am MAOHI NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) – DRUMMING
Mervyn Lilo (Ra’atira pupu) – Aiea, HI

12:00 pm TE MANA O TE RA – Tupuna– AHUPUROTU
Lisa & Ray Aguilar (Ra’atira pupu) – Walnut Creek, CA

12:30 pm TE MANA O TE RA – Hura Tau (Sr) – AHUPUROTU
Lisa & Ray Aguilar (Ra’atira pupu) – Walnut Creek, CA

1:00 pm HERE TAMA NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) – DRUMMING
Allen Ramento and Christopher Ramento (Ra’atira pupu) Honolulu, HI

BREAK: 1:30 – 2:30 pm

2:30 pm SOLO AWARDS CEREMONY

3:30 pm IA ORA O TAHITI NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) – DRUMMING
Kevin and Aulii Kama (Ra’atira pupu) – Waipi’o, HI

4:00 pm NONOSINA HAWAII – Hura Tau (Sr) – AHUPUROTU
JonRaymond & Tiani Mariteragi (Ra’atira pupu) – Laie, HI

BREAK: 4:30 – 5:30 pm

5:30 pm OTE’A KIA MANA – Hura Tau (Sr) – OVERALL
Dennis Kia, Robyn Williams, Kapeka Hoffmann, Hauoli Kia-Napaepae (Ra’atira pupu) – Mililani, HI

6:30 pm HERE TAMA NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) – OVERALL
Allen Ramento and Christopher Ramento (Ra’atira pupu) Honolulu, HI

7:30 pm NONOSINA HAWAII – Hura Tau (Sr) – OVERALL
JonRaymond & Tiani Mariteragi (Ra’atira pupu) – Laie, HI

8:30 pm IA ORA O TAHITI NUI – Hura Tau (Sr) OVERALL
Kevin and Aulii Kama (Ra’atira pupu) – Waipi’o, HI

9:00 pm GROUP AWARDS CEREMONY

Heiva i Honolulu expands-adds 4th day!

With the amount of groups participating in this years' Heiva i Honolulu exceeding capacity, the event has announced the addition of a fourth day to its schedule. The event will start on Wednesday, March 17th and run to Saturday, the 20th. Soloists will compete on the first day and groups will compete the following three days.

This is a full schedule with a balanced mix of groups. There are multiple groups competing in each event so there isn't anything that can be taken for granted. Competition is heating up. Many of last years 1st place groups and dancers are coming back to defend their titles and many groups that haven't competed for years are back to challenge.

The schedule is tight so group practice time on stage is limited. However, a large practice area in the adjoining Kapiolani Park is reserved for dance groups throughout the event and the Kapiolani bandstand. The large structure can house most any group and may be used. It's first come first served as a public open air venue.

Applications and rules/regulations are available online but will be updated shortly with additional information regarding the additional day. Check back soon.

Workshops are being planned for Sunday, March 21 so the Spring Break week is full of activity. Details to be announced shortly. And Polynesian handicraft vendors will be showing their unique offerings, many of which are not available in stores.

Heiva i Honolulu is produced by Tahiti Nui International and takes place annually at the Waikiki Shell in Honolulu, Hawaii. The event will run March 17-20, 2010. General Admission tickets are available at the Blaisdell box office, online and other ticket outlets to be announced shortly.

Sponsors for the event include Aloha Hula Supply, Polynesian Cultural Center, Black Pearl Designs, Wahine Toa Designs, Tihati Productions, City & County of Honolulu, Cabana Vacation Suites and Tahiti Imports. Additional Sponsors to be announced shortly.

Sponsor hotels for Heiva i Honolulu announced, more...

Tahitian dance competitions are already gearing up for 2010. Tahiti Nui International has announced two hotel sponsors for Heiva i Honolulu 2010. The event will take place over spring break (March 18-20) at the Waikiki Shell. Already, there are at least 10 hura ava tau groups and 6 hura tau groups that have signed up for the competition including last years overall group Ia Ora Tahiti Nui and well known groups such as Te Vai Ura Nui, Maohi Nui, Manutahi Tahiti, Tiare Heipua, Otea Kia Mana, Te Mana O Te Ra, Healii's Polynesian Revue, and Heretama Nui among others.

Sponsor hotels include the Hilton Waikiki Prince Kuhio. The hotel is offering rates starting at $109 a night. Book early as the prices go up the closer it gets to the event. (Click here to download reservation form)

Additionally Cabana Vacation Suites is offering an $89 rate. Book by January 31, 2010 and mention the promo code TNIH.

"In assisting with the record number of groups already signed up to perform, we have partnered up with not one, but two hotels to accommodate guests. Whether you are a local looking to have a convenient close location to keep all your costumes, house staff, use as a base or a group coming from the mainland or Japan, this is a great savings opportunity."

Even in the down economy the amount of participation for next years event is much higher. Official website will be updated shortly with details and additional information. If you haven't already done it, you can download rules/regulations and applications for the event on the event website. Stay tuned for more updates as the event date gets closer.

Counting down to Heiva i Honolulu 2010

In just a couple of weeks, the Heiva i Honolulu new 2010 website will be going live. Applications for vendors, dance groups and soloists will be available for the March 18-20, 2010 event at the Waikiki Shell.

Several major dance groups both in Hawaii and the mainland have indicated that they are preparing to come to next years event to compete.

Tahiti Nui International, the organizer behind the event is also looking to have a few additional exhibition performances for Polynesian groups not wanting to compete but wanting to participate in the event.

This years featured dancer is Te Mana O Te Ra's Charity Offril, who was the 2009 Overall Vahine Soloist. Details about the event will be forthcoming.

Candid shots of Te Mana O Te Ra

Getting a group ready for a performance in a Heiva, Tahiti Fete or any number of Tahitian dance events is a job in its own right. Take for example bringing Te Mana O Te Ra, a large dance group from Walnut Creek, California and bringing them to Hawaii to compete in the Heiva i Honolulu 2009. The event took place last month from March 12-14. Group leaders Lisa and Rey Aguilar had the daunting task of coordinating hotel, airlines, ground transportation, food, and practices, not to mention coming up with a presentation, choreography, music, drumming and costumes.

This candid photo gallery brings some of those "backstage" elements to light. It also tells the story of an established group that puts in long hours and hard work. In the end you can see how rewarding it is to be a part of an organization such as Te Mana O Te Ra. Whether behind the scenes or out there on center stage, each member of the group strengthens the performance.

In the end, Te Mana O Te Ra not only walked away with an unforgettable experience, they also brought back with them several awards including the overall vahine soloist (Charity Offril) and the senior group Ahupurotu 1st place award. We're looking forward to more great performances.

Lastly, we have to add that we were pleasantly surprised to see our own Tehani pareo fabric, which is designed and printed by Black Pearl Designs, used in their group performance. The long black dresses featured just enough of our poehere blue to make the costume stand out. You can see the fitted costume in many of the gallery photos. Take a look and see for yourself.

2009 Heiva i Honolulu awards

This past weekend saw an abundance of memorable Tahitian dance performances by 10 dance groups and over 150 soloists competing in the 2009 Heiva i Honolulu, March 12-14, 2009.

For 3 days the Waikiki Shell hosted the event. The first day was full of soloist performances. The first round started with an exhibition of 2-3 year olds giving us a glimps into the future of Tahitian dance. From there, dancers were brought out in age groups all the way up to 36 and above.

The second round saw at least 3 ties which forced dance offs between several dancers. It didn't get any easier for the judges from there. In the overall womens (vahine) competition, the 3 top dancers were separated by only 1 point. Two were tied (Kawahineha'aheo Oliver of Urahutia Productions and Chelsea Clement of Te 'E'a O Te Turama) and the overall vahine, Charity Offril (pictured, top) of Nemenzo, won by the single point.

On the mens (tane) side, Keawe McArthur of Maohi Nui danced his way to the top spot with Kalaniku Clark of Haruru Toa and Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo closely behind.

Groups from Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, California and Japan competed in group events on Friday and Saturday.

One of the closest contests was the drumming division. Two groups, Te Vai Ura Nui of Honolulu, HI and Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui of Waipi'o, HI had scores that were almost too close. The 3 drumming judges, all accomplished drummers in their own right, were Etua Tahauri, Hatota Tehiva, and Tahiti Nui International President Raymond Mariteragi. In the end Te Vai Ura Nui came away with the coveted title.

Each year, the groups from Japan seem to be getting better and better. This year was no exception. Tiare Heipua, from Ishikawa, Japan and under the direction of Heikapu Sabarsah claimed the Hura Ava Tau (Junior) overall division title. This is the second year that they have taken the top spot.

In the Hura Tau (Senior) overall division, 1st place went to crowd favorite Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui, under the direction of a trio of ra'atira - Kevin, Aulii, and Manarii. The Waipi'o group claimed their first title of the Perpetual trophy.

Even in unusually cold weather nights and intermitten rain showers, it was a weekend full of fun, music, food, drumming and of course, dancing. Master of ceremonies duties were handled by a great group of individuals - Cathy Teriipaia, Vaihi, and Johan Hironui Bouit - who not only guided the activities, but also made sure to educate the onlookers and let them know exactly what to look for and what was happening.

Tahiti Nui International Support staff made the event flow smoothly. Kudos to Raymond Mariteragi, Rose Perreira, Tamara Ulima, Niu Ulima, Mana Mo'o, Auntie Ho'o and the rest of the volunteers. Looking forward to March 18-20, 2010 - 8th Annual Heiva i Honolulu.

Photos of the event can be purchased at mikebambi.com
DVD's of the event can be purchased at playbackmemories.com
Video highlights can be viewed at pacificnetwork.tv

Here's the complete list of results for the event:

SOLOIST AWARDS

AGE 4-6 TAMAHINE

1.	Ku'umanu Kupau of Maohi Nui
2.	Nicole Graham of Te'e'a O Te Turama
3.	Kanoe Navares of Maohi Nui

AGE 4-6 TAMAROA

1.	Skyler Ramento of Heretama Nui

AGE 7-10 TAMAHINE

1.	Denise Robinson of Manutahi Tahiti
2.	Leslie Brooke of Manutahi Tahiti
3.	Jazmine Melchor of Maohi Nui

AGE 7-10 TAMAROA

1.	Troy Spacek of Manutahi Tahiti

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAHINE

1.	Poerava Lee of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2.	Chloe Pojas of Manutahi Tahiti
3.	Shandy Hopeau of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAROA

1.	Zachary Isaac of Te Mana O Te Ra
2.	Kyle Imipono Miyasato of Merahi Productions
3.	David Alcos of Here Tama Nui

AGE 14-17 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAHINE

1.	Chelsea Clement of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2.	Eleni Tolutau of Nonosina Hawaii
3.	Jazmine Emerson of Nonosina Hawaii

AGE 18-21 VAHINE

1.	Kawahineha'aheo Oliver of Urahutia Productions
2.	Jocelyn Belden of Haruru Toa
3.	Ana Joyce Advincula of Manutahi Tahiti

AGE 18-21 TANE

1.	Peter Flores of Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

AGE 22-26 VAHINE

1.	Michelle Baker of Nemenzo
2.	Evlyn Rose Bustamante of Da Island Way
3.	Ai Yoneda of Tiare Heipua

AGE 22-26 TANE

1.	Keawe McArthur of Ma'ohi Nui
2.	Kalaniku Clark of Haruru Toa
3.	Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo

AGE 27-35 VAHINE

1.	Charity Offril of Te Mana O Te Ra
2.	Mi Nei K Oliver of Urahutia Productions
3.	Eleina Gomez of Paul Tavai-Latta Dancers

AGE 27-35 TANE

1.	Andre Mata'afa-Alferos of Ma'ohi Nui
2.	Jonathan Ulibas of Maohi Nui
3.	Joseph Duff of Te Mana O Te Ra

AGE 36 & ABOVE

1.	Leandra Thompson of Nemenzo
2.	Kayoko Soma of Tiare Heipua
3.	Sonia Valentines of Da Island Way

AGE 36 & ABOVE

1.	Lawakua Gabriel of Manutahi Tahiti

OVERALL VAHINE

Charity Offril of Te Mana O Te Ra

OVERALL TANE

Keawe McArthur of Ma'ohi Nui

GROUP AWARDS

JR. APARIMA

1.	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan
2.	Te Mau Merahi
	Kepa Aricayos - Kihei, HI
3.	Mehetia Productions
	Charelle Kahanuala Silva - Kaneohe, HI

SR. APARIMA

1.	Te Tiare Patitifa
	Keoni Manuel - Wailuku, HI

JR. AHUPUROTU

1.	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan
2.	Tokariga Kalokemele
	Yuko Imai - Chikasaki, Japan
3.	Te Mau Merahi
	Kepa Aricayos - Kihei, HI

SR. AHUPUROTU

1.	Te Mana O Te Ra
	Lisa & Ray Aguilar - Walnut Creek, CA
2.	Marania Haoragi
	Tahia Parker - Honolulu, HI
3.	Te Tiare Patitifa
	Keoni Manuel - Wailuku, HI

MAMA RUAU AHUPUROTU

	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

SR. DRUMMING

1.	Te Vai Ura Nui
	Tyrone Temanaha Jr. - Honolulu, HI
2.	Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
	Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI

HURA AVA TAU - JUNIOR OVERALL

1.	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan
2.	Merahi Productions featuring Tiare Apetahi
	Tiffany DelaCruz & Seisha Tobosa - Hilo, HI

HURA TAU - SENIOR OVERALL

1.	Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
	Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI
2.	Te Tiare Patitifa
	Keoni Manuel - Wailuku, HI

COSTUME

	Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
	Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI

RA'ATIRA

	Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
	Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI

PERPETUAL TROPHY - JUNIOR

	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

PERPETUAL TROPHY - SENIOR

	Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
	Kevin, Auli'i and Manarii - Honolulu, HI

Countdown to Heiva i Honolulu

Waikiki is known as a tourist hub, but come this weekend it will be much more. The 2009 Heiva i Honolulu will be happening at the Waikiki Shell - March 12-14, 2009. 10 dance groups and over 150 soloist are readying their costumes, routines and music for the 7th annual event.

This past weekend we just happened to be in the center of Kaneohe and heard the distinct sounds of Tahitian drumming complete with a symphony of toere, fa'atete, pahu and Tahitian ukulele and songs. No doubt hips were swaying. WHAT AM I SAYING? Shaking! Talking with some of the stores around, it seems they have been practicing for this event for at least 4-6 months. That's a great sign of dedication. Looking forward to seeing the performances.

Tahiti Nui International is the producer of the event. Now in its 7th year, Raymond Mariteragi and Rose Perreira have brought several dance groups, soloists, sponsors and vendors together for the event. Both have long been integral parts of the Tahitian community acting not only as producers, but also artisans, judges and leaders.

Complete detailed program is now available online on the official site and blog. Take a look. The event is even partnered up with the Honolulu Festival.

Groups participating include:

Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui
Kevin & Auli'i - Honolulu, HI

Marania Haoragi
Tahia Parker - Honolulu, HI

Mehetia Productions
Charelle Kahanuala Silva - Kaneohe, HI

Merahi Productions featuring Tiare Apetahi
Tiffany DelaCruz & Seisha Toboza - Hilo, HI

Te Mana O Te Ra
Lisa & Ray Aguilar - Walnut Creek, CA

Te Mau Merahi
Kepa Aricayos - Kihei, HI

Te Tiare Patitifa
Keoni Manuel - Wailuku, HI

Te Vai Ura Nui
Tyrone Temanaha Jr. - Honolulu, HI

Tiare Heipua
Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

Tokariga Kalokemelemele
Yuko Imai - Chikasaki, Japan

Heiva i Honolulu tickets on sale February 25

Tahiti Nui International has announced that general admission tickets will be going on sale February 25 for the 2009 Heiva i Honolulu. Tickets will be available at the Neil S. Blaisdell Center ticket box office, Ticketmaster Hawaii locations, ticketmaster.com, all Times Supermarkets and the BYU Hawaii ticket office.

General admission tickets will be $15 (11 yrs old and up), $10 (4-10 yrs old), and children 3 and under free admission.

Heiva i Honolulu will again be hosted at the historic Waikiki Shell in Honolulu from March 12-14, 2009. Activities will take place 4-9:30 pm each night. The solo competition will take place on Thursday, group competition will take place on Friday and Saturday.

Along with the announcement, new promotional materials featuring Savanna Alcosiba of Heretama Nui are now available on the website. She was a soloist award winner at last years event.

The heiva is taking place among a number of other festivities happening in Waikiki that weekend. It is presented in part by the Honolulu Festival.

Photos of the Heiva i Honolulu 2008 event

The website Mike Bambi.com front page currently is showcasing photos that were taken at this year's Heiva i Honolulu. Contact Mike Bambi at (808) 554-1553 or email him at mikebambi@yahoo.com to purchase photos.

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 Group Results

With more than a thousand in attendance, Te Vai Ura Nui of Honolulu, Hawaii, ran away with the coveted overall trophy at this years Heiva i Honolulu. Saturday's performances included Nonosina Hawaii of Laie, Hawaii, and Maohi Nui of Aiea, Hawaii. Both competed in the Senior category.

The overall soloists competition began the afternoon activities. Tehinamai Mataele of Maohi Nui and Justin "Froggie" Atangan of Nemenzo came away with the vahine and tane titles.

Maohi Nui started the group portion of the program and featured a very poised and crowd-pleasing ahupurotu.

They were followed by a touching performance by Nonosina Hawaii performing an ahupurotu of a story telling of the young sister who was lost to the Mariteragi family. The performance was especially personal as Sunday Mariteragi, the mother, performed with the group.

Maohi Nui heated up the competition with fire-wielding tane warriors and energetic vahine dancing their wedding themed otea and paoa. They shared a beautiful aparima and finished off with a climatic ending.

Nonosina Hawaii continued the family theme and brought out all ages of performers. From the 4 yr olds all the way to their most senior members, they all participated and revved up the crowd.

In the end, however, it was Te Vai Ura Nui, who had performed the night before, who came away with the top honors. So without further ado, here's the final results of the group competition. Visit the Tahiti Nui International website for additional details.

OVERALL

VAHINE
Tehinamai Mataele of Ma'ohi Nui

TANE
Justin "Froggie" Atangan of Nemenzo


GROUP AWARDS

HURA AVA TAU - JUNIOR LEVEL
1. Tiare Heipua (Ishikawa, Japan)
Ra’atira – Heikapua Sabarsah & Pualani Horiuchi
2. Kawai’ Ola I Kahikina (Tokyo, Japan)
Ra’atira – Shiho Tomida

HURA TAU - SENIOR LEVEL
1. Te Vai Ura Nui (Honolulu, Oahu)
Ra’atira – Charlie and Cathy Temanaha
2. Ma’ohi Nui (Pearl City, Oahu)
Ra’atira – Mervin Lilo
3. Nonosina Hawaii (Laie, Oahu)
Ra’atira - Jon Raymond and Tiani Mariteragi

COSTUME
Te Vai Ura Nui (Honolulu, HI)
Ra’atira – Charlie & Cathy Temanaha

RA'ATIRA
Nonosina Hawaii (Laie, Hawaii)
Ra’atira – Jon Raymond and Tiani Mariteragi

TAMARI'I APARIMA
Tokariga/Kalokemelemele (Chikasaki, Japan)
Ra’atira – Yuko Imai

VAHINE JR. APARIMA
Tokariga/Kalokemelemele (Chikasaki, Japan)
Ra’atira – Yuko Imai

JR. AHUPUROTU
1. Tiare Heipua (Ishikawa, Japan)
Ra’atira – Heikapua Sabarsah & Pualani Horiuchi
2. Kawai ‘Ola I Kahikina (Tokyo, Japan)
Ra’atira – Shiho Tomida
3. Marania Haoragi (Honolulu, Hawaii)
Ra’atira – Tahia Parker & Tukua Foster

SR. AHUPUROTU
1. Nonosina Hawaii (Laie, Oahu)
Ra’atira – Jon Raymond and Tiani Mariteragi
2. Ma’ohi Nui (Pearl City, Oahu)
Ra’atira – Mervyn Lilo

MAMA RUAU AHUPUROTU
Kawai’ Ola I Kahikina (Tokyo, Japan)
Ra’atira – Shino Tomida

SR. DRUMMING
Ma’ohi Nui (Pearl City, Oahu)
Ra’atira – Mervyn Lilo

Te Vai Ura Nui roars back with a win at Heiva i Honolulu

With a huge crowd made up of supporters, onlookers, tourists, guests and vendors, last night saw the overall group award at the 2008 Heiva i Honolulu go to Te Vai Ura Nui of Honolulu, Hawaii. It was a return for the group to compete in group competition and they definitely showed that they hadn't lost their touch. Competing last on Friday, they were in competition with Nonosina Hawaii of Laie, Hawaii and Maohi Nui of Aiea, Hawaii in the senior division. Both groups showed strong performances on Saturday.

Te Vai Ura Nui was founded in 1987 by Charles and Cathy Temanaha in Honolulu, Hawaii. They have succeeded in winning the overall trophy in many competitions and have always been noted for their authentic and stunning costumes.

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 solo results

Heiva i Honolulu is concluding this evening. Three days of competition will culminate tonight in awarding excellence in Tahitian dancing. With an audience of approximately 500 spectators per night, dancers have performed with a great competitive spirit. The level of intensity, execution and poise has definitely been raised.

Over 100 soloists competed on Thursday from Hawaii, California and Japan mainly. A large contigent of Japanese based groups has come this year to compete and as you can see below, they have done very well, giving the home crowd groups serious competition.

Friday saw Here Tama Nui of Honolulu, Marania Haoragi of Honolulu, Nonosina Japan/Kawai Ola I Ka Hikina of Tokyo, Japan, Tiare Heipua of Komatsu, Japan, Tokaringa/Kalokemelemele of Tokyo, Japan and Te Vai Ura Nui of Honolulu compete. This evening will see local established groups including Nonosina Hawaii and Maohi Nui.

Craft vendors are plentiful and rare finds are to be found. Tahitian ukuleles, black pearls and shell jewelry, Tahitian pareos, Maori poi balls, Polynesian apparel, Samoan carvings, and Tahitian drums are just a sampling of the items you'll find.

Event organizers, Rose Perreira and Raymond Mariteragi make sure that things have run as smooth as possible. In all, 15 groups, 18 vendors and countless volunteers and support staff are participating this year.


SOLOIST AWARDS

AGE 4-6 TAMAHINE
1. Kanoe Navares of Manutahi
2. Teorihere Toves-Ramento of Heretama Nui
3. Nicole Graham of Te E'a O Te Turama

AGE 4-6 TAMAROA
1. Skyler Ramos of Heretama Nui
2. Mykle Keni of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Seau Maiava of Ma'ohi Nui

AGE 7-10 TAMAHINE
1. Tomomi Iguchi of Kalokemelemele Hula Studio
2. Lia Fa'apisa Thompson of Nemenzo
3. Brooke Leslie of Manutahi

AGE 7-10 TAMAROA
1. Ethan Magalei of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Troy Spacek of Manutahi
3. Jay Spacek of Manutahi

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A
1. Kourtney Kaopuiki of Heretama Nui
2. Shoko Tokuda of Kalokemelemele Hula Studio
3. Naehuokala Meyer of Marania Hoaragi

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A
1. Mason Manuma of Ma'ohi Nui
2. JD Melchor of Manutahi

AGE 14-17 TAURE'ARE'A
1. Shayna Lei Soma of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2. Savanna Alcosiba of Heretama Nui
3. Monique Orton of Nonosina Hawaii

AGE 14-17 TAURE'ARE'A
1. Mosiah Manuma of Ma'ohi Nui
2. LJ Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii

AGE 18-21 VAHINE
1. Tehinamai Mataele of Ma'ohi Nui
2. Ashley Jardine of Te Tiare Patitifa
3. Ayumi Asano of Kalokemelemele Hula Studio

AGE 18-21 TANE
1. Justin "Froggie" Atangan of Nemenzo
2. Peter Flores of Te Vai Ura Nui

AGE 22-26 VAHINE
1. Michelle Baker of Nemenzo
2. Jet'aime Alcos of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Meghan Bridges Steffen of Te Ariki Nui

AGE 22-26 TANE
1. Brandon Keawe McArthur of Ma'ohi Nui
2. Manarii Gauthier of Te Vai Ura Nui
3. Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo

AGE 27-35 VAHINE
1. Kalei Guillory of Te Vai Ura Nui
2. Kayoko Soma of Tiare Heipua
3. Ayuka Hattori of Tiare Heipua

AGE 27-35 TANE
1. Edward Pula of Ma'ohi Nui
2. Kala Latuselu of Ma'ohi Nui
3. Brandon Oka of Ari'i Hau Moana

AGE 36 & ABOVE TA'ATA PA'ARI
1. Leandra Thompson of Nemenzo
2. Kamaile Sniffen of Te Ariki Nui
3. Belinda Miranda of Manutahi

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 update

Check out the new Heiva i Honolulu web pages. With more information and details, applications, group tickets, and resources, the Tahiti Nui International website is updating and upgrading to provide a more comprehensive and informative resource of Tahitian dance.

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 will be the first Heiva of the year happening on March 13-15. Check back soon for purchasing general admission tickets.

Heiva I Honolulu 2008 date update

Tahiti Nui International has adjusted the dates for the 2008 event in Waikiki. The Heiva I Honolulu was previously scheduled for March 19-21, 2008 but because of conflicting schedules, it was decided to move it to March 13-15, 2008. The Waikiki Shell will still be the hosting location. Event officials are working on cooperative movements with travel industry representatives to accommodate participating groups and guests. More information to come as it becomes available.

Heiva I Honolulu will be the first major dance competition of the 2008 season. Watch for new information and new look to their website coming soon.

Heiva I Honolulu 2008 date announcement

Black Pearl Designs is privileged to announce the event dates for Tahiti Nui International's Heiva I Honolulu 2008. The event will take place March 19-21, 2008 (Event organizers moved event dates to March 13-15, 2008, consult official site or view our updated calendar for the latest information. Dates and details are subject to change according to individual event organizations) at the Waikiki Shell. Event co-director, Rose Perreira, announced the dates after returning from Japan from Heiva I Honolulu's sister event - Heiva I Japan. TNI also produces the Heiva I Tahiti International in Papeete, Tahiti.

Details and information will be forthcoming. Check the official site for upcoming updates, applications, travel & accommodation packages and vendor information.