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.

Tahitian Headdresses

More and more, we get requests for headdresses and accessories for the hair and jewelry. We have a collection that is growing all the time at Black Pearl Designs. But sometimes we just can't make or get enough material, shells, feathers, or notions. After all, we are working with Tahitian artisans who create most pieces by hand.

That's when we start searching again. And we found a great customizing website - OneofDaKine.com* that offers one-of-a-kind Tahitian headdresses. From the look of it, it seems to all be hand done. So if you are looking for a special headdress or have an idea for a costume, you might want to check this website out. Thanks to Julie Bugarin, director of Merahi O Tehani for the resource link.

And just to let you know, we are working to provide a selection of headdress styles and a lighter weight Tahitian skirt, not to mention a new Tahitian pareo print coming later this year. We are excited to offer this and would welcome input on color and style preferences.

* We are not endorsing nor recommending this company. We offer this information as a service only.