Heiva i Waimea

Get ready Hawaii. The annual Heiva i Waimea, presented and produced by the award-winning Tahitian dance group, Manutahi Tahiti, will once again be hosted by Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu. With the registration packet just being released, dancers can now start registering for the competition.

This is the 5th year of the solo competition event. The event starts with a Tamarii Exhibition, and is followed by the Tamarii/Tamaroa solo competition and finally the Vahine/Tane solo competition. Activities begin at 9:30am and run through the day concluding with an awards ceremony. Soloists will be competing in various age groups and will dance 1-2 1/2 minutes in front of judges and audience.

Sarah Liva
2010 Overall Senior Soloist
Photo by David Shimabukuro

Dancers will need to show their abilities in basic steps, creativity and adaptability to various Tahitian drum beats. The vahine (women) may use various steps and styles including but not limited to: fa’arapu, tairi tamau, afata, varu, nu’u, fa’arapu eraro, and te’i. The tane (men) may use various steps and styles including but not limited to: Paoti, paoti eraro, ruru, faarapu, and afata.

One change that you will see this year is the expansion for the 22-27 age group so an even wider range of soloists can compete. In the past, the cutoff was age 21.

Being in such an inviting tropical botanical garden, it's expected that we'll see some amazing leis and headdresses that compliment the traditional soloist pareu.

Admission to the event is $10. Children 12 & under are $5 each. For more information, contact the event organizer, Pola Teriipaia at (808) 222-4346 / manutahidance@hotmail.com

For those of you who were there last year, here are the results:

Age 5-6 Tamahine
1 Jazzylyn Samuseva of Marania Haoragi
2 Kiana Aniya of HereTama Nui
3 Tiffany Alcos of HereTama Nui

Age 7-8 Tamahine
1 Nicole Graham of Tamatoa
2 Breeze-Makana Agpaoa of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3 Malia Hokulani Pedro of HereTama Nui

Age 7-8 Tamaroa
1 Kaleb Poniatowski

Age 9-11 Tamahine
1 Vaekehu Parker of Marania Haoragi
2 Kasidy Taylor Vergara of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3 Kavanoe Keahi of Na Kamalii O Ke Akua


Age 9-11 Tamaroa
1 Reecie Brown of Manutahi Orlando
2 Keoki McGowan of Manutahi Orlando

Age 12-14 Tamahine
1 Sarah Liva of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
2 Cailin-Tiana Sabado of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3 Breyhanna Agpaoa of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Age 12-14 Tamaroa
1 Kaiko Gouveia of HereTama Nui
2 Taleon Lele of Kalena's Polynesian Ohana

Age 15-17 Vahine
1 Joesalyn Aguindaldo of Te Vai Ura Nui
2 Naomi Baldomero of Te Vai Ura Nui
3 Angela Jeanell Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Age 18-21 Vahine
1 Alexa Ashley Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2 Burgundy Keriseano of Fiere De Tahiti
3 Kayleen Kamali'I Wahine Bradshaw of Fiere De Tahiti


Miss Heiva I Waimea 2010
Tiane Kong of Manutahi Orlando

Overall Junior Soloist
Reecie Brown of Manutahi Orlando

Overall Senior Soloist
Sarah Liva of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Photos from last years' event are available on David Shimabukuro's website, 1 Moment in Time.

Heiva i Waimea coming in May

A letter from Manutahi Tahiti

Ia orana and Aloha!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 
We're excited to announce  our 4th annual MANUTAHI Solo Competition, which will again be hosted by Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu. This is an all day event to be held on May 1, 2010; which is known as Lei Day in Hawaii. We will have our solo competition for ages 5-25, Miss Heiva Pageant and an exhibition for our cute and adorable age group of 4 and below. We are extremely excited to be able to once again share the Tahitian culture with locals and tourists alike. Attached is our Pupu Ori information packet, which entails the guidelines, registration forms, and our hold harmless agreement.
 
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, concerns, or inquiries. 

I appreciate your time and look forward to hearing from you. Let's keep the spirit of the islands alive by promoting our love of Polynesian culture worldwide.

Mahalo and Mauruuru!
Tess Camanse DeCorte
MANUTAHI

www.manutahi.com

Results for Heiva i Kauai 2009

Tahitian dance groups from Oahu and Kauai vied for top honors in this years Heiva i Kauai. Event activities took place at the Kapa'a Beach Park over the August 1-2, 2009 weekend. The 8th annual event is organized and produced by Tapairu & Jo Manea and Stella Miyoshi.

Overall soloist awards went to Manuel Trujillo (Overall Junior Tane), Poerava Lee (Overall Junior Vahine), Julian Maeva (Overall Senior Tane), and Lani Figaroa (Overall Senior Vahine). Awards for each age group were also awarded and are listed below.

Te 'E'a O Te Turama (Maile Lee) of Oahu, took several group awards including the Overall Group award. While Manutahi Tahiti (Pola Teriipaia) took top honors for their Ote'a presentation.

Complete results are below. For a look at past results for events, visit Tahitian Dance.

Overall Junior Tane Soloist
Manuel Trujillo of Ta'ere Tia'i

Overall Junior Vahine Soloist
Poerava Lee of Te 'E'a O Te Turama

Overall Senior Tane Soloist
Julian Maeva of Manutahi Tahiti

Overall Senior Vahine Soloist
Lani Figaroa of Ori Uviira

Age 4-6 Tamaroa
1. Qandon Josue of Te 'E'a O Te Turama

Age 4-6 Tamahine
1. Nicole Graham of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Taylor Acosta of Manutahi Tahiti
3. Jayda Candelaria - Independent

Age 7-9 Tamaroa
1. Oviri Avaeoru-Villatora of Ta'ere Tia'i

Age 7-9 Tamahine
1. Jade Anton of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Tia Takasaki of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Sophia Rivera of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 10-12 Tamaroa
1. Manuel Trujillo of Ta'ere Tia'i
2. Tamatoa Uta of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
3. Kainoah Ferris of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 10-12 Tamahine
1. Poerava Lee of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Caramia Kricken of Te Ora Roa Otea
3. Tahra-Leo Kaui of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 13-15 Tane
1. Emmsley Drake of Rohotu
2. Zacchaus Uta of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
3. Kamuela Ferris of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 13-15 Vahine
1. Tara Teriipaia of Manutahi Tahiti
2. Kristie Pii Matias of Tamatea Nui
3. Victoria Rivera of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 16-18 Tane
1. Kainalu Tolentino of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Ranson Lee of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 16-18 Vahine
1. Chelsea Clement of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Kalei Onzuka of Maohi Nui
3. Jessy Lasala of Nonosina

Age 19-25 Tane
1. Julian Maeva of Manutahi Tahiti
2. Mikaele Oloa of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 19-25 Vahine
1. Lani Figaroa of Ori Uviira
2. Candace Laamea of Rohotu
3. Keana Camense of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 26-39 Tane
1. Nicolas Kaneakua of Ori Uviira
2. William Maycong of Kaiko Boy Entertainment
3. Mahiai Kekumu of Te 'E'a O Te Turama

Age 26-39 Vahine
1. Shannon Daliva of Ori Uviira
2. Marie Kricken of Te Ora roa Otea

Age 40+ Tane
1. Lawakua Gabriel of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 40+ Vahine
1. Anuenue Mose of Lumana'i O Polenisia


Group Awards

Overall
Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe, Oahu

Ahupurotu
1. Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe, HI
2. Ori Uviira of Kapa'a, HI

Drumming
1. Manutahi Tahiti of Wahiawa, HI
2.Tamatea Nui O Kauai of Lihue, HI

Aparima
1. Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe, HI

Otea
1. Manutahi Tahiti of Wahiawa, HI
2. Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe HI
3. Tamatea Nui O Kauai of Lihue, HI

International Cultural Farereiraa

Five US Tahitian dance groups and 1 from Japan will compete in the International Cultural Farereiraa (gathering) in Papeete, Tahiti. The groups competing include Nemenzo (San Francisco), Ote'a Api (Freemont), Hitia O Te Ra (Los Angeles), Here Tama Nui and Manutahi (Hawaii). Mahana O Te Ra is coming from Japan. Events will take place July 18-20 at Place To'ata.

Te Fare Tauhiti Nui and Coco Hotahota organizated the event to share the passion of Tahitian dance with foreign groups. Both soloists and groups will compete. Approximately 600 dancers are reported to be participating.

More reporting at La Depeche de Tahiti

Heiva i Waimea crowns two

Te E'a O Te Turama, led by ra'atira Maile Lee, walked away with 10 awards at the 3rd Annual Heiva i Waimea including the overall group title. The event took place this past Sunday, April 19, at Waimea Valley. Soloists from several local groups participated and competed in age groups ranging from 5-25 years.

The setting amid the lush greenery was perfect for crowning a new Ms. Heiva i Waimea and the competition was close. So close that it resulted in not one, but two vahine being crowned. Tanya Cadiente (pictured left), of 'Otea Kia Manu and Teare Zick-Mariteragi, of Te Vai Ura Nui tied for the title. Contestants were judged on a Tahitian culture talent, costume and formal dress. Congratulations to both for doing a great job of showing poise, grace, talent and being an example to younger aspiring girls.

Producer Pola Teriipaia of Manutahi Tahiti, was thrilled with the turnout and reminded all the dancers that they were all winners by portraying the Tahitian culture and taking part in the event.

We have to admit we missed most of the event not realizing that most of the competition would be occuring early on. Lesson learned. Anyway, here are the results:

Age 5-6 Tamahine
1. Azariah Coleman of Marania Haorangi
2. Nicole Graham of Te E'a O Te Turama
3. Sa'ili Williams of 'Otea Kia Mana

Age 7-8 Tamahine
1. Poliahu Sunny Aina of Te E'a O Te Turama
2. Amaya Joy Panajon of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3. Chloe' Dominge of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Age 7-8 Tamaroa
1. Alex Kekua of Otea Kia Mana

Age 9-11 Tamahine
1. Poerava Lee of Te E'a O Te Turama
2. Shandy Hopeau of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Clarke (Ah-Yoka) Cailing of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Age 9-11 Tamaroa
1. Tamatoa Uta of Te E'a O Te Turama
2. Kaiko Gouveia of Heretama Nui

Age 12-14 Vahine
1. Ashlen Kiniiau - Independent
2. Ciera Dutro of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3. Shanelle Ramelb of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Age 12-14 Tane
Zacchaeas Uta of Te E'a O Te Turama

Age 15-17 Vahine
1. Alexa-Ashley Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2. Raquel Fernando of Napua O Lokelani Polynesian Revue
3. Kalei Onzuka of Maohi Nui

Age 15-17 Tane
1. Kainalu Lee of Te E'a O Te Turama

Age 18-21 Vahine
1.Janice Vidad of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
2. Tanya Cadiente of 'Otea Kia Mana

Age 22-25 Vahine
1. Shannon Paraan-Kahalepauo of Marania Haorangi
2. Olive Tuitasi Morano of Maohi Nui
3. Nalani Nahinu of Marania Haorangi

Junior Couple
Dizsae Josue/Zachias Uta of Te E'a O Te Turama

Senior Couple
Poerava Lee/Kai Lee of Te E'a O Te Turama

Overall Junior Soloist
Poerava Lee of Te E'a O Te Turama

Overall Senior Soloist
Janice Vidad of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Ms. Heiva
Tanya Cadiente of 'Otea Kia Mana
Teare Zick-Mariteragi of Te Vai Ura Nui

Overall Group
Te E'a O Te Turama
Maile Lee - Honolulu HI

ArtMania to feature Tahitian Dance at Manoa

The University of Hawaii is hosting ArtMania, a one day art fair for the community showcasing student artists and the Department of Art & Art History.

Activities take place this Sunday, April 5, 2009 from 11am - 5pm.

The ArtMania event will feature a performance by Manutahi Tahiti at 11:30 am and drum-making demonstrations by Tyrone Temanaha, Jr. & Mafatu Krainer (2-5 pm). In addition, a crafting exhibit of Tahitian costumes will run from 12:30-1:30 pm.

And to add to the experience, don't miss the Tau Rima: Crafting Performance showcasing the craft artists and material artifacts of 'ori Tahiti in Hawaii. Examples of locally made costumes and instruments show how artists in Hawaii preserve Tahitian traditions through craftsmanship, innovation, creative use of resources, and the transmission of knowledge.

The Tau Rima exhibit is located in the Hamilton Library Gallery and will be on display from now to April 28, 2009. Admission is free to the public. The exhibit was brought to life due to the work of graduate student Scott Bartlett.

Manutahi Tahitian Solo Dance Competition

Press release from Manutahi Tahiti

MANUTAHI is pleased to announce its 3rd Annual Tahitian Solo Dance Competition on SUNDAY, April 19, 2009 at Waimea Valley, Pikake Lounge, from 9:00am - 6pm. This long-anticipated event will feature a day full of Tahitian Dance and Live Tahitian Drumming, Tahitian arts, crafts, and jewelry, and exhibition performances by our own MANUTAHI keiki or tamarii. Our event is sponsored by Polanesia and Waimea Valley, and co-sponsored by Polynesian Treasures of Haleiwa Marketplace. This event is sparking great deals and offers from businesses throughout the North Shore. There is nominal charge of $7 per person (children 5-12 are $5 and under 5 are free) to get into the event. This cost for admission will only provide admission to the competition and through the first gate of the park. Additional charges to pass through the second gate to take part in Waimea Valley activities and featured amenities will apply.

Doors will open at 8:30 am for registration and seating. Our event will kick-off with a traditional Tahitian prayer and our Tamarii (or Keiki) Exhibition dancers, ages 2 to 4 years old. This is always a crowd pleaser, as these tiny tots know how to get the audience going. We will continue with our Tamarii Solo Division, a Ms./Mr. Heiva Pageant, break for lunch, and will continue with our Ta'ata Pa'ari or (Teenage) Solo Division and our Couples Competition. Ending the evening will be the announcement of awards.

Proceeds from this event will go towards the costs of outer island and mainland competitions. We were recently invited to compete in a Tahitian Fete set to take place in July of this year. This Fete only takes place every three years and we are honored to accept the invitation and represent our beloved Hawai'i in Tahiti. Most importantly, funds generated from calendar and art gallery sales will go directly towards our Community Partnership and Scholarship Fund, which provides monetary assistance to our students who desire to further their academic success.

We are still accepting applications to participate as a soloist, as an entry in the Pageant, or as a couple. This competition is open to all halaus and independent dancers!

In celebration of Tahitian culture, this event coincides with the introduction of UH Manoa Library's two exhibits, "Tau Rima Tahiti: Crafting Performance" and "'Ite 'Upa'upa", by curator and ethnomusicology candidate Scott Bartlett, in the Hamilton Library Bridge and Phase II Galleries from through April 28, 2009. The "Tau Rima Tahiti: Crafting Performance" exhibit showcases elaborate, costumes and locally made instruments. Craft artists from notable groups from Hawaii such as Here Tama Nui, Oriata, Marania Haoragi, Te Vai Ura Nui, Ot'ea Kia Mana, and MANUTAHI contributed to the display of costumes, as well as Heikura Nui, a group from Tahiti. Instruments, and jewelry were provided by KBS Instruments, Mafatu Krainer, Etua Tahauri, Tyrone Temanaha, Jr., and Gerard Tepehu.

The materials of Tau Rima Tahiti celebrate these craftspeople and their central role in preserving Tahitian culture. "'Ite 'Upa'upa" features the resources on Tahiti and performance practices that are held in the Pacific Collection of Hamilton Library. Developed collaboratively with Librarian Stuart Dawrs, the exhibit highlights photos and books on Tahitian dance and culture. Please feel free to visit the online exhibit at www.museum.hawaii.edu/exhibits/taurima/ or attend the exhibit at University of Hawai'i at Manoa's Hamilton Library, Mondays-Saturdays from 8am - 4:30pm or Sundays from noon-7pm. Entry into the Hamilton Library is open to the public and parking is available for $3.

For more information about this event or the UH exhibit, to participate as a soloist, or to find out how you can be a part of our ohana or support our mission, please visit our website at www.manutahi.com, or call us at 542-4480. North Shore businesses are encouraged to contact us also, so that we can promote any specials or offers to our audience throughout the day.

Manutahi Tahiti Competition

Things are moving ahead on this year's Manutahi Tahiti competition. With little over a month until the event, entry forms are now available online on the official website. The 3rd annual event will be taking place on Sunday, April 19, 2009 at Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu.

Activities include the Tamarii/Tamaroa solo competition, the Mister and Miss Heiva Pageant, the Vahine/Tane solo competition, Couples’ competition, a dance off for the overall title and concluding with the awards presentation. The competition begins at 8:30 am and runs throughout the day. Group admission rates are available for advance purchase and day of event. General admission to the event is $7, children 5-11 - $5. Price does not include admission to Waimea Valley park.

For more information, refer to the offical website, email or contact Pola Teriipaia (222-4346) or Alma Damo (promotions/marketing) (542-4480)

2009 Manutahi Solo Competition

Ia Orana and Aloha!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We trust this reaches you in the best of health and spirits!

We are VERY VERY pleased to announce the confirmation of our 3rd annual MANUTAHI Solo Competition, which will again be hosted by Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu. This is a two-day event, held on April 18 and 19, 2009. We will have our solo competition for ages 5-25 and an exhibition for our babies. We are also having a Mr. and Miss Heiva and Couples' competition. Due to high demand and our belief in maintaining relationships with our participating groups, this is the first year that we are expanding to an older group for 22-25 year old adults!

Last year, competitors were garnished with lavish prizes, which consisted of handmade, traditional Tahitian trophies and mounted Tahitian pearl pendants, rings, and earrings. All who came to the event had a wonderful time! We encourage participation. We are also extremely excited to be able to once again share the Tahitian culture with locals and tourists alike, at the beautiful Waimea Valley grounds. A Pupu Ori information packet is available online. It includes guidelines, registration forms, and our hold and harmless agreement.

Please keep in mind that we have our 2nd annual calendar and fundraiser: 2009 MANUTAHI Dances of Tahiti, available year round. This vibrant 12 month calendar proudly features the dedicated students, parents, and family members of Manutahi Tahiti Dance School based in Wahiawa, Hawaii. We strongly believe this collection will attract not only the kama’aina and visitors of Hawai’i, but people from all walks of life throughout the world. (You can purchase the Manutahi Calendar online at Black Pearl Designs ON SALE NOW for $7.50. Hurry before they are gone.)

MANUTAHI, a 501c3 non-profit organization serving the youth of Hawaii, is committed to our primary focus of 2009 and the next few years to come, which is to fund our scholarship program for our driven students seeking to continue their pursuit of academic excellence through the sale of these calendars. The parameters of this scholarship program include maintaining an extraordinary grade point average, contributing a minimum number of volunteer hours to the community, and submitting an essay regarding their volunteer experience and the value of education.

Should you have further interest in our mission or our community goals, please visit our web site at www.manutahi.com. The cost of each calendar is $12.00, which covers the cost of shipping. Although you may not be familiar with our group, the scenery, models, and costuming will speak for itself.

On an even more exciting note, we will be hosting our first ever Taualuga (Samoan Dance) Competition in August of 2009. The winner(s) of this competition will be given handmade, traditional Samoan trophies and other scholarship opportunities. Details for this anticipated event will also be communicated as the date is confirmed.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are interested in any of the above mentioned announcements or if you have any questions, concerns, or inquiries.

I appreciate your time in reading this, and look forward to hearing from you. Let's keep the spirit of the islands alive by promoting our love of Polynesian culture worldwide.

Mahalo and Mauruuru!
Alma M. Damo
MANUTAHI
almadamo23@aol.com
808-542-4480
www.manutahi.com

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

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.

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.

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.

Manutahi in 2008 Macy's Parade

Things are going to heat up New York come Thanksgiving day. Manutahi Tahiti, whose reach includes groups on Oahu, Maui, Moloka'i, Texas and Florida, has been invited to participate in this year's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The parade, as a national tradition, has long been considered the unofficial kickoff to the Christmas holiday shopping season and is seen by millions throughout the country.

Fundraising is being done by all branches of their group to cover the costs. Alma Damo, head of Promotions/Marketing announced that "Over 100 of our members, from our group and sister groups combined, will be traveling to the BIG APPLE to nationally televise the beauty and art of Tahitian Dancing."

One of the groups most visible fundraising activities is their recent Tahitian dance calendar. Available at Hawaiiana stores and through the group itself, the calendar features Manutahi Tahiti dancers in action in tropical locales. Call 808 222-4346 or email to get your copy.

Manutahi Tahiti is headed by Pola Teriipaia and headquartered in Wahiawa, Hawaii. She is an accomplished Ori Tahiti dancer, frequent judge at Tahitian dance competitions and comes from a long tradition of Tahitian cultural leaders. Her group consistently places high in Tahitian dance competitions.

Manutahi Tahiti also just announced that their 2nd Tahitian Solo Dance Competition will take place Saturday, April 19, 2008 at Waimea Falls Park. For more details and information, please see their website.

Manutahi Tahitian Solo Dance Competition

The long awaited and anticipated announcement for Manutahi's Tahitian dance competition has been confirmed.

Waimea Falls Park will be the site of Manutahi Tahiti's 2nd Tahitian Solo Dance Competition on Saturday, April 19, 2008. Sponsored by Polanesia and Waimea Falls Park, activities will take place at the Pikake Lounge. Doors will open at 9:30am and exhibition events will start the event at 10:00am.

Entry into the event will only be $5 per person (children 5-11 are $2 and under 5 are free). Admission to the park itself is included so participants and spectators can make a day activity for the whole family.

For more information, visit the Manutahi Tahiti website for applications, vendor information, and questions. Contact Pola Teriipaia at 808-222-4346 or email manutahidance@hotmail.com

Manutahi Tahiti, based in Wahiawa, is the host organization. The group has recently expanded to Maui and Moloka'i as well as the mainland in Humble, Texas and Orlando, Florida.

Waimea Falls Park recently became managed by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) company Hiipaka LLC.

Manutahi Tahitian dance calendar

I've been meaning to post this to the blog but keep forgetting. I remember later but am nowhere near a computer or my note pad. I've been following the Manutahi Tahiti group website and emailing occasionally about their planned Heiva on Maui (by the way, no news on that).

However, they have offered a new 2008 Tahitian dance calendar. It's a fundraiser for their group that will fund a non-profit student scholarship. Photographs are by local photographer Andrew Bryant Simms. The price is $15. To purchase the calendars, call them at (808) 561-4342. Please let them know where you heard about it.

The calendar features vahine dancers from the group on location throughout the islands and fittingly has month names in both English and Tahitian.

Heiva - Tahiti Fete Updates

Heiva for later this year and 2008 are shaping up. The Fete in Orlando, Florida - Tamarii Tahiti Fete has updated their website and announced the 2008 event date. Reserve April 2, 2008. The event is expanding to include all ages. What better excuse to hit Walt Disney World than to take your group to the event. Contact Evelyn or Isitolo Oloa for more information. They have also updated their gallery and added 2008 entry forms.

Back over in Hawaii, the Manutahi Tahiti event has moved location to Maui. More details to be announced shortly.

The next Heiva this year will be at Cerritos, California – The Hura Tahiti Tahitian Dance Competition. The event will take place July 13-14. The Tahitian dance workshop features Roiti Tahauri Sylva and Coco Hotahota, grand master of Tahitian dance. Drumming workshops feature Alex Tekurio. See their website for more details.

Updates for Tahitian Dance Events

Looking at the coming months we're starting to see increased activity and updates on Tahitian dance event websites. One of the biggest changes is a change in date for the Heiva International I Tahiti 2007, not to mention an official name for the event. The event will be held in Papeete Tahiti, on the week of July 23-28 at the To'ata arena, home of the Heiva I Tahiti. Because of a change in government leadership, a date change was necessary to accommodate the new agenda set forth by the new administration.

Information about the event, calendar, applications and other information about getting there are available on Tahiti Nui International's website. In the past, the organizers have produced the Heiva I Honolulu. This year however, it's taken all their efforts to organize the event in Tahiti and weren't able to hold the event in Honolulu. Event organizers have announced that the event will return in 2008 to Honolulu and possibly Tahiti as well.

This week also marks the beginning of the 2007 Heiva season. With Heiva being held in not one but two venues. First off is the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete. The Merced event is the longest running event in the US. The event runs from March 16-18, 2007 and the competition will be held at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Event activities include the Maeva Merced Pageant (Mr. and Miss Maeva Merced), solo and group competition in aparima, otea and ahuroa. The event will close with exhibitions by tamari'i (children). Go to their website for ticket information and assistance.

The 2007 Tamari'i Tahiti Fete is also happening this weekend. Taking place in Orlando, Florida, this is the second year of this event. The event highlights tamari'i (children) from 3-16 years old. More information is available on their website.

Another change in schedule is the Manutahi Tahiti event in Honolulu, Hawaii. Originally scheduled for April 27-28, 2007, this event has been moved to October. More details as they become available.

Lastly, July 6-7, 2007 are the confirmed dates for the Polynesian Cultural Center's Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti competition.