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 i Hawai'i debuts with Grande Performances

The Tahitian Dance community welcomed its newest event this past month ~ Heiva i Hawai'i. Fittingly it also started off the 2012 Heiva season. Produced by award-winning group Te `E`a o Te Turama and its leader, Maile Lee, Heiva i Hawai'i welcomed groups and soloists from throughout the islands to Kailua-Kona over a weekend of fun-filled dance, crafting and music.

Maile started the event because her best friend, Kula Keawekane, of Fun to Jump Kona did a Mahalo Fun Day for the `ohana's in Kona last year. They set up Inflatables and had some entertainment and invited some Vendors to enjoy the day. Later, they decided to expand and do a Tahitian Dance Competition and Mahalo Fun Day with the main focus of giving back to the community and bringing more awareness for the Tahitian culture and dance.

The 3-day event brought strong performances by local groups such as Merahi o Tapiti, Toa Here, Te Vai Ura Nui and Polynesian Paradise and a crowning of the first ever Mr and Miss Heiva i Hawaii. A wide range of local support sponsored the event as well. Those included: The Shops at Mauna Lani, Fun to Jump Kona, Earl De Leon, Show Systems Hawai`i, Loud & Clear Productions, ITA Hawai`i, West Hawai`i Screen Printers, Kaua`i Polynesian Festival, Fatu Krainer, Alofa`s Custom Instruments, Moani Lahi Designs, Camelia Temanaha, Wailana Lee, Keauhou Beach Resort, Kuma Contracting, Royal Kona Resort, Enterprise Ret a Car, and Parks & Recreation (Wes, Vic & Diego)

Official photographer, Mike Wine, of Island Tours & Activities has a gallery of photos and videos (coming soon) of the 1st Annual Heiva i Hawai'i. Photos may be purchased online in various sizes and styles.

And if you missed it this year, don't worry. Dates for next years event have already been announced. Heiva i Hawai'i 2013 will take place February 15-17, 2013 in Kailua-Kona. Visit the event website for updates as they become available.

Below is a letter from Maile Lee, producer of Heiva i Hawai'i, summarizing the event.


By Guest Contributor Maile Lee

Aloha a Ia Orana,

Heiva i Hawai`i 2012 was an awesome experience for myself and Te `E`a o Te Turama.  The three day event brought artisans, dancers and patrons from all over Hawai`i and the neighbor islands to Maka`eo in Kailua-Kona.  Malihini and Kama`aina alike were treated to the island’s finest Tahitian Dance and drumming, unique Polynesian crafts and jewelry and an awesome array of Local Grinds.

On Friday evening, February 17, 2012, we crowned our First Mr & Miss Heiva i Hawai`i at the Shops at Mauna Lani on the South Kohala Coast.

19 year old Makana Pohakuikalewa Keana`aina a Native Hawaiian speaker from Kailua-Kona played the `ukulele and sang ‘Te Tama Maohi’ to capture the hearts of the judges as well as the Mr Heiva i Hawai`i 2012 title.

Naomi Baldemero

Miss Naomi Kau`iokeaho Baldemero, proved that experience was the key in the girls competition.  Her winning ways in Tahitian dance competition for the past few years with her Award-Winning group Te Vai Ura Nui helped her to realize her goal to take the crown and become Miss Heiva i Hawai`i 2012.

Saturday, February 18, 2012, featured over 70 of Hawai`i’s finest Solo dancers from 3 years old to 40+ and fabulous. House Drummers played for nearly 2 hours non-stop as dancers in beautiful costumes and adornments wowed the judges with their technical skill and creativity.

Afternoon competition featured Tamari`i (Children’s) Group Presentations.  The audience was treated to Polynesian folklore as dancers acted out scenes depicting the Legend o Maui and Hina and the creation of the Kumu Niu, the first coconut trees of Tahiti and the story of Oro, the Master of the Sky who created Poerava ~ the Tahitian Black Pearls.

At the days end, winners were announced for the first place solo division winners as Ra`atira and their Pupu Ori contemplated and readied themselves for day 2 of competition.

Sunday, February 19, 2012, began with the Overall Solo dance off.  Tane and Vahine along with their younger counterparts vied for The Overall Tane and Vahine Soloists along with the top Tamahine and Tamaroa. Solo dance competition gave way to a cacophony of Drums as two groups from Hawai`i island competed in Drumming competition.  In the afternoon Junior Group competition got underway.  The crowd was treated to a heated battle between Pele and her sister Na Maka o Kaha`i, goddess of the Sea and the melodic story of love in Mihi au ia`oe as dancers in lovely dresses brought our days competition to a close with images of the beautiful Tahitian Vahine.

Merahi o Tapiti

When all was said and done Merahi o Tapiti and their Ra`atira Tiffany Delacruz and Corey Sibayan were the Junior group winners taking various awards including first place in drumming competition back to Hilo.  As for the Tamari`i groups it was Mahealani Lee’s Polynesian Paradise that caught the attention of the Judges.

Te Vai Ura Nui’s Naomi Baldemero, Miss Heiva I Hawai`I 2012, and Daniel Sherman captured the Tane & Vahine Overall Soloist Awards and Merahi o Tapiti’s sweetheart won the Tamahine solo award.  But it was Koari`i Atkinson-Siola who swept the judges votes when he performed a round-off back hand spring to end his Tamaroa Overall winning routine.

Results for Heiva i Hawai'i 2012

SOLO AWARDS

5-7 years old
Tamahine
1st – Katarina Piper, Polynesian Paradise
2nd – Leonahenahe Pavao, Polynesian Paradise
3rd(tie) – Aysia-Lee Jaquias, Merahi o Tapiti


3rd(tie) – Pualena Andrews, Toa Here

8 – 10 years old
Tamahine
1st – Tiani Bello, Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Lokelani Diego, Toa Here
3rd – Angelina Ramirez, Toa Here

Tamaroa
1st – Anthony Kauwe, Toa Here

11 – 13 years old
Tamahine
1st – Tehani Perkins, Te Vai Ura Nui
2nd – Cassandra Kanoho, Te Vai Ura Nui
3rd – Jaysha Pavao, Toa Here

Tamaroa
1st – Koari`i Atkinson-Siola, Polynesian Paradise
2nd – Daylan Kalai, Merahi o Tapiti
3rd – Tobee Kahaola Lee, Polynesian Paradise

14 – 17 years old
Vahine
1st – Naomi Baldemero, Te Vai Ura Nui
2nd – Kelsye Curry, Merahi o Tapiti
3rd – Ryanne Richardson, Toa Here

Tane
1st – Jason Johnson, Toa Here

18 – 20 years old
Vahine
1st – Raynette Rezentes, Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Mahealani Ramos, Merahi o Tapiti
3rd – Amanda Caban, Merahi o Tapiti

21 – 24 years old
Vahine
1st – Cassie Pira, Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Amanda Gutierrez, Polynesian Paradise
3rd – Lilinoe Atkinson, Polynesian Paradise

Tane
1st – Quinten Vea, Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Olin Caba, Merahi o Tapiti

25 – 34 years old
Vahine
1st – Kuualoha Kekuaniela, Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Keaukaha Carveiro, Polynesian Paradise
3rd – Jamie Ganzagan, Toa Here

Tane
1st – John Anduha, Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Aaron Olivarez, Polynesian Paradise

35 – 40 years old
Vahine
1st – Tanya Andrews, Toa Here
2nd – Debi Vierra, Toa Here

Tane
1st – Daniel Sherman, Te Vai Ura Nui
2nd – Corey Sibayan, Merahi o Tapiti

40+ years young
Vahine
1st – Romy Salvador, Toa Here

Overall Tamahine Soloist – Tiani Bello, Merahi o Tapiti
Overall Tamaroa Soloist – Koari`i Atkinson-Siola
Overall Vahine Soloist – Naomi Baldemero, Te Vai Ura Nui
Overall Tane Soloist – Daniel Sherman, Te Vai Ura Nui

Group Awards
Tamari`i Groups

Ote`a
1st – Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Polynesian Paradise
3rd – Toa Here

Aparima
1st – Polynesian Paradise
2nd – Toa Here
3rd – Merahi o Tapiti

Best Costume Award:
Polynesian Paradise

Overall Tamari`i Group:
Polynesian Paradise

Junior Groups
   
Ote`a
1st - Merahi o Tapiti
   
Aparima
1st - Merahi O Tapiti

`Ahupurotu
1st – Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Polynesian Paradise

Drumming
1st – Merahi o Tapiti
2nd – Polynesian Paradise

Best Costume Award
Merahi o Tapiti

Overall Junior Group
Merahi o Tapiti

Photos courtesy of Mike Wine, Island Tours & Activites

Heiva i Tahiti 2011

Heiva i Tahiti 2011 activities have already started in Tahiti this year. Amateur dance groups have held exhibition performances as the heralded Toata Place in Papeete starting last week. The annual event brings together some of the best from all parts of French Polynesia. Activities not only include traditional Tahitian dance, or ori Tahiti, but also drumming, sport including canoe, or va'a, racing and for the first time, the Miss Tahiti pageant.

The official grand opening will take place this evening at the Conservatoire Artistique de Polyésie Française. This will be followed by the Miss Tahiti pageant next Friday evening, June 24. The current reigning Miss Tahiti, Lucie Poehere Wilson, hails from Laie, Hawaii and has been a consistent award winning dancer at many of the heiva in the US. She will hand over the crown to the 51st Miss Heiva from a field of 16 young women competing this year.

From there, starting July 1st, the Heiva i Tahiti Va'a first round race will start from Papeete Harbor. Races will continue the following day and on the 7th, 8th, 9th and 14th. Traditional athletic events will take place starting the 14th and include javelin throwing, stone lifting, copra (coconut) husking, fruit carrying racing, boat racing, and coconut tree climbing.

Traditional dance, music and drumming competitions will occur throughout the month starting Friday July 1 with an exhibition Fireknife spectacular. The song competition will start off with two groups competing in the evening - Tamarii Hautimatea and Vaihoataua. And in the Hura Tau dance category NONAHERE, who last competed in 2008, will again compete and looks to repeat for a 3rd crown in the last 5 years.  The group is led by Matani Kainuku and is based in Mahina.

Returning title holder, FARE IHI NO HUAHINE, under the direction of Paul Tehare, will be the final performing dance group of the festivities. The awards will be given out the following week on Thursday, July 21 and a special encore performance by the new title holder and other award winners will take place the following evening.

Here's the schedule for the dance groups:

Friday, July 1
NONAHERE (Hura Tau)

Saturday, July 2
ORA PAPEETE TO'U PARE (Hura Ava Tau)
MANAHAU (Hura Tau)

Thursday, July 7
HITITAU (Hura Ava Tau)
AHUTORU NUI  (Hura Tau)

Friday, July 8
HANATIKA (Hura Ava Tau)
TAMARII PAPARA (Hura Tau)  

Saturday, July 9
TE UI NO PARE NUI (Hura Ava Tau)
TOAKURA (Hura Tau)

Friday, July 15
PUPU TUHAA PAE (Hura Ava Tau)
TAHITI ORA (Hura Tau)


Saturday, July 16
TAMARII PUNAAUIA (Hura Ava Tau)
FARE IHI NO HUAHINE (Hura Tau)

Thursday, July 21
Awards Presentation

Friday, July 22
NIGHT OF THE WINNERS OF HEIVA I TAHITI 2011 

Heiva i O'ahu 2011

It's been about a decade since the award winning Tahitian dance group Te Vai Ura Nui produced a heiva, but that is all going to change now. Charles and Cathy Temanaha have announced that Heiva i O'ahu will return and will be held Saturday, March 26, 2011 in Kaneohe, Hawaii at King Intermediate School. The event will feature soloists, groups and drummers competing for event titles.

The event has the standard forms and rules, all of which are available on their website. Tane and vahine soloists 5 and up may compete. Tamari'i dance groups are made up of children 12 and under. Groups will compete in Otea, Aparima and Ahupurotu. Being in the islands, an emphasis on natural fibers, flowers and leaves is expected. As always, live musicians and drumming are a must in this competitive field.

As this is the first Tahitian dance competition in the islands this year, this is a great opportunity to showcase new music, costumes and choreography. It's also a great opportunity to refine the basics and fine tune old and new groups.

In addition to the dancing and drumming; Tahitian and Polynesian arts and crafts vendors will be set up for you to visit.

Admission is $10. Children 12 and under $5. For more information, applications and details, visit the event website or contact the event producers directly at www.tevaiuranui.com

Heiva i Maui

The 13th annual Heiva i Maui will be taking place this weekend, August 14-15, 2010 at the Wailuku War Memorial Gymnasium. The event is organized by Maui Polynesian Tahiti Fete whose purpose is to create and sponsor programs, festivals, workshops, and special functions for the community for all ages and ethnicities.

Groups, drummers and soloists will compete for titles and will be judged on entrances/exits, execution and precision, costumes, drumming, choreography, creativity, expressions and overall impression. In addition, a Mr and Miss Heiva i Maui pageant will also take place.

Groups will compete in the 'Aparima, 'Ote'a, and Ahupurotu. While soloists will compete using their best Tahitian dance skills, presence, and ability to adapt quickly to the changing drum beats.

Tickets are $10 in advance, are available at ticket outlets including Sew Special (275 West Kaahumanu Avenue; Telephone: 808-877-6128), The Maui Quilt Shop (1280 South Kihei Road; Telephone: 808-874-8050), and Lahaina Music (910 Honoapiilani Hwy, Suite 9; Telephone: 808-661-7625).

Tickets are also available at the door the days of the event for $15. Children 5 and under are free.

For additional information, visit the event website Heiva i Maui, email heivaimaui@yahoo.com or call 808 250-0737.

Heiva I Kauai readying for up and coming groups

Get ready for the 9th Annual Heiva I Kauai. Set in Kapa'a, Kauai, the Tahitian dance competition produced by Manea and Jo Tepairu, is returning to Kapa'a Beach Park over the July 31-August 1, 2010 weekend. The competition features both soloists and groups and also a competitive drumming category as well.

Soloists will compete in age groups for the vahine and tane titles. Groups will compete in several categories including Ote'a, Aparima, Ahupurotu, Drumming, and Music.

"We have two "up-and-coming" young local groups that are working very hard to enter group competition this year that we are very excited about. That is what our Heiva is all about...growing the next generation of Tahitian dancers and musicians and providing the venue for them to gain expertise and confidence." organizer Jo Tepairu explained in recent correspondence.

Another exciting aspect unique to this competition is the apprentice program. She goes on to explain "We also have an apprentice judge program that was started last year with two young people whom we hope to have return for more training this year."

Cathy Teriipaia will once again return as the Master of Ceremonies this year. Her father, Papi Teriipaia, a frequent advisor and judge, will once again supervise the coconut husking competition which was started last year.

On Saturday morning, a traditional welcoming ceremony will start the festivities. Gates open to the public at 9 AM and the solo competition begins at 10 AM. Group competition schedules will depend on the number of entries.

On Sunday, gates open at 9 AM and exhibition dancing begins at 10 AM with group competition continuing. Sunday will end with solo, group and drumming award presentations.

Festival participants will enjoy a weekend of great Tahitian entertainment, browse through an array of Polynesian arts and crafts, observe and participate in creating Polynesian crafts, savor delicious local foods and participate in dance and coconut husking contests.

Admission is $5 a day at the door. Children age 6 and under are free.

Group Results for Tahiti Fete of San Jose

The 2010 Tahiti Fete of San Jose took place over the July 4th weekend at the San Jose State University Campus. The sold out event featured Tahitian dance groups from the greater California area and included dance workshops, drumming workshops, and cultural workshops.

Competition occurs in two group categories. Generally Hura Ava Tau groups are any small, new, or amateur group with a minimum of five (5) dancers; has never placed First in any major Heiva competition as a professional group. A Hura Tau group is any established professional or long-time Tahitian dance group with a minimum of five (5) dancers.

Photos of the event courtesy of Chad Makaio. Visit his Facebook page for more photos including the above photo and the current front page feature.

In each group category, are the different competition areas - aparima, ahuroa, ote'a, drumming, music, costume, and ra'atira.

This year, defending title holder, Nonosina placed in many categories including the Ori Rau (modern interpretation) award, but it was Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of South San Francisco and led by ra'atira Marilou Ubaldo that came away with the Overall Hura Tau Group award. The group was the 2008 Hura Ava Tau Overall group and moved up to the Hura Tau level this year. Lake Forest group Le Polynesia, led by Guy Keala and Lori Lei Montgomery was awarded the 2010 Hura Ava Tau group award.

Group Results for the 2010 Tahiti Fete of San Jose

Hura Tau Otea

1 Manuia of Daly City CA
2 Te Pura O Te Rahura’a of South San Francisco CA
3 No Te Here o Te Hiroa of Fresno CA

Hura Tau Aparima
1 Manuia - Daly City, CA
2 No Te Here o Te Hiroa – Fresno, CA
3 Da Island Way of Concord CA

Hura Tau Ahuroa
1 Nonosina of Anaheim CA
2 Te Pura o Te Rahura’a of South San Francisco CA
3 Manuia of Daly City CA

Tupuna Ahuroa
1 Manuia of Daly City CA
2 Ka Ua Tuahine of Oakland CA
3 Ehulani's Otea of Hayward CA


Hura Ava Tau Otea

1 Tamari’i Mata’irea of Stockton CA
2 Le Polynesia of Aliso Viejo CA
3 Makamae Melia o Polynesia of Elk Gove CA

Hura Ava Tau Aparima
1 Tamari’i Mata’irea of Stockton CA
2 Kaleo’Onalani of San Diego CA
3 Le Polynesia of Aliso Viejo CA

Hura Ava Tau Ahuroa
1 Tamari’i Maita’irea of Stockton CA
2 Te Pura o Te Rahura’a of South San Francisco CA
3 Here Hau of Hercules CA


Ori Rau Otea
1 Nonosina of Anaheim CA
2 Kaleo’Onalani of San Diego CA

Tamarii Otea
1 Manuia – Daly City CA
2 Te Pura o Te Rahura’a of South San Francisco CA
3 No Te Here o Te Hiroa of Fresno CA


Tamarii Aparima
1 Te Pura o Te Rahura’a of South San Francisco CA
2 Nonosina of Anaheim CA
3 Tamari’i Mata’irea of Stockton CA

Hura Tau Drumming
1 Ia Ora o Tahiti Nui of Honolulu HI
2 Nemenzo of Daly City CA
3 Te Pura o Te Rahura’a of South San Francisco CA

Hura Tau Music
1 Nonosina of Anaheim CA
2 No Te Here o Te Hiroa of Fresno CA
3 Da Island Way of Concord CA


Hura Ava Tau Drumming
1 LeiIsa of San Diego CA
2 Tamali’i O Lumana’i of Hayward CA
3 Le Polynesia of Aliso Viejo CA

Hura Tau Music
1 Tamari’i Maita’irea of Stockton CA
2 Le Polynesia of Aliso Viejo CA
3 Makamae Melia o Polynesia of Elk Gove CA


Overall
Hura Tau – Te Pura o Te Rahura’a
Hura Ava Tau – Le Polynesia
Ori Rau - Nonosina

128th Heiva I Tahiti - Te Anuanua

The theme of this years' Heiva I Tahiti is - Te Anuanua - The rainbow, the bridge between men and the gods, between heaven and earth. The 128th annual event encompasses both cultural and sporting events throughout French Polynesia. It serves to bring together the islands and its people through song, dance and sport.

Last week marked a cultural and symbolic beginning of the month long festival. Award-winning group O Tahiti E, led by raatira Marguerite Lai, presented a pageant entitled "Vaka Arioi" which reenacted the role that the arioi played in ancient Tahiti. In ancient times the arioi entertained the arii (royalty).

Tomorrow evening, the reigning Heiva Nui awarding-winning group Hei Tahiti, under the direction of Tiare Trompette, will be featured in a program honoring the late Henri Hiro, a noted poet, teacher, filmmaker, pastor, and activist and the founder of l'Office Territorial d'Action Culturelle.

In contrast to last years' dance competition, just one group, Hitireva (Kehaulani Chanquy) will be performing in the Heiva Nui division. The group was last years' Heiva division winner and as such was moved up into the Heiva Nui division. The main division to watch this year will be the Heiva division. Participating groups include: HURA TAHITI NUI, NOHOARII (Xavier Nonoh), TOAKURA (Mateata Legayic), MANAHAU (Jean-Marie BIRET), AVAI'URA NO HUAHINE (Leila Darles-Lai), TOROMIKI AUOROTINI NO RIKITEA (Dany Paheo), and FARE IHI NO HUAHINE (Paul Tehare).

Here is the tentative program for the dance and song competition taking place at Place Toata. Activities will be running from July 5-23 with awards being announced on July 22.

More information at the Heiva Nui event website may be available. The July 2010 edition of Hiroa also has more information and may be downloaded at the publication website as a pdf file. The document is in French.


HEIVA I TAHITI 2010
PROGRAM

Thursday, July 8, 2010
19:00 - NIGHT SPECIAL

Friday, July 9, 2010
19.00 - Dance: Category HEIVA: HURA TAHITI NUI

20:00 - Songs: tarava Tahiti tamarii Matai

20:30 - Songs: tarava Raromatai: NO FANATICS tamarii AABF

21.00 - Dance: Category HEIVA NUI: HITIREVA

Saturday, July 10, 2010
19.00 - Dance: Category HEIVA: NOHOARII

20.00 - Songs: tarava Tahiti Nui VAIARII

20.30 - Songs: tarava Raromatai: VAIHOATAUA

21h00-Dances: Category HEIVA: TOAKURA

Friday, July 16, 2010
19.00 - Dance: Category HEIVA FARE IHI NO HUAHINE

20:00 - Songs: tarava Tahiti tamarii TEAHUPOO

20.30 - Dance: 21:30 - songs: tarava Raromatai: Ateh

22.00 - Dance: Category HEIVA: MANAHAU

Saturday, July 17, 2010
19:00 - Songs: tarava Tahiti tamarii PAPARA

19:30 - Dance HEIVA Category: TAVAI'URA NO HUAHINE

20:30 - Songs: tarava Tahiti: Ass. Tamarii NO Papeari

21:00 - Songs: tarava Raromatai FARE IHI NO HUAHINE

21.30 - Dance: Category HEIVA: TOROMIKI AUOROTINI NO Rikitea

Thursday, July 22, 2010
EVENING OF AWARDS
Friday, July 23, 2010
NIGHT OF THE WINNERS OF HEIVA I TAHITI 2010

Hura Tahiti results

The 2010 Hura Tahiti just completed activities at the Hope International University campus this past weekend and the dance group Ote'a Api was crowned Overall Group. This is the 6th annual event produced by Alex Tekurio, ra'atira of the award-winning group Hitia O Te Ra.

California groups from Alisa Viejo (Le Polynesia), Castiac (Kalakele), Concord (Da Island Way), Costa Mesa (Tupua), Fremont (Ote'a Api), Huntington Beach (Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands, Te Varua Ori), San Diego (Heali'is Polynesian Revue, Lei Isa), and Walnut Creek (Te Mana O Te Ra), competed this year.

Soloists competed in age categories and split into vahine and tane. In addition to the competition, workshops were also conducted for dance taught by Faimano Tupea of Heikura Nui and drumming taught by Heimanu Tehahe also of Heikura Nui.

Full results of the competition may be found at the Hura Tahiti event website or by visiting our Tahitian Dance database which includes results from many of the past Tahitian dance events that have occurred throughout the country.

Heiva USA

A brand new event is scheduled to hit San Diego this August. Heiva USA, produced by Friends of Tahiti - Te Mau Hoa No Tahiti, will take place August 13-14, 2010 on Shelter Island in San Diego, California. The event will feature a pageant, a gala dinner to be held at the Bali Hai Restaurant on Friday and a Tahitian dance solo competition on Saturday.

The 2010 Miss Heiva USA pageant contestants will compete for the title and 2 round trip tickets to Tahiti on Air Tahiti Nui among other prizes. To be eligible, contestants need to be 18-25 years old. Contact Lindsay Reva McNichol for more information at liny.vandalsink@gmail.com

The Tahiti Gala Dinner will be held at the Bali Hai Restaurant. It will be a traditional Polynesian/Tahitian buffet under the stars. Cost is $50 per person and includes a floor show by Le Polynesia and Heali'i's Polynesian Review.

Soloists will compete in age divisions from 4 years and up at the Pacific Beach Middle School in San Diego. An exhibition round will also take place for 2-3 year olds. Application fees run from $20-30 depending on age division and are available online to download.

Friends of Tahiti is a cultural and charitable non-profit association dedicated to promote friendship, understanding and cultural awareness between the people of French Polynesia and the United States through education and the cultural arts.

Visit the Heiva USA event website for more information.

Tarena Tahiti & Te Aranui O Tahiti

Skyline College of San Bruno, California is the new home for Tarena Tahiti and Te Aranui O Tahiti. Tarena Tahiti (Tahitian calendar) is a solo, drumming and costume competition produced by Elizabeth Bertumen and the award-winning group Nemenzo. Following Tarena Tahiti is Te Aranui O Tahiti, a group exhibition event featuring performances uninhibited by the pressures of the modern day competitions.

Both events will be taking place on Memorial Day weekend, May 29-30, 2010 at the Skyline College Main Theater. Tickets are available for $15 (Tarena Tahiti), and $10 per hourly show (Te Arenui O Tahiti).

The judges for Tarena Tahiti this year are:

Aaron Sencil - Director of the group Hui Tama Nui from Vallejo California in the San Francisco Bay Area. Hui Tama Nui has won numerous awards including Overall Group at Heiva I Reno and San Jose Tahiti Fete. Aaron has received merits for his beautiful costumes and unique and creative presentations. Currently he is also owner and artist selling Polynesian influenced clothing line and accessories, doing business as "Boutiki" and "Dodo Art".

Tiana Liufau - Director of Nonosina Polynesia of Anaheim, California. Nonosina is a world renowned award winning group known for their outstanding presentation in Tahitian Dance and Music Competitions. Predominantly winning 1st and Overall in their competition entries, Nonosina continues to set the trend with their unique and creative style. Their global influence expands from the US to Mexico, Japan and more. They continue to compete and conduct workshops in the US and abroad.

Remy Tekurio - Choreographer and Costumer for Tekurio Nui of Southern California hails from Utah and comes from a family with a long history of Polynesian Dance and Entertainment. He co-hosted Heiva I Orlando along side Roiti Sylva for 3 years. He has danced for PCC for 5 yrs and has judged for Tahitian Competitions in California, Utah and Florida. His next endeavor will be opening his own dance group in Utah.

Te Aranui O Tahiti will feature six groups, Manuia Polynesia (San Francisco), Merahi O Tehani (Union City), Tamali'i (Hayward), Te Orama (Daly City), Tamari'i Mata'irea (Stockton), and Nemenzo (Daly City).

For more information, email tarena_tahiti@yahoo.com, tearanuiotahiti@yahoo.com or call (415) 425-1662.

Heiva Tahiti En Mexico

Going south of the border? The 3rd annual Heiva Tahiti En Mexico, billed as "100% traditional" will be happening later this year November 13-15, 2010 in Guadelajara.

Saturday activities begin with the group competition followed by workshops. Sunday features solo and couples competing in all age groups. And Monday will feature more workshops and awards.

Registration is open until October 31, 2010. For more information, visit the event website.

Hura Tahiti announces special hotel sponsor offer

Only a 10 minute walk away from the Hura Tahiti 2010 Tahitian dance competition, the Fullerton Marriott at California State University just announced their special "Hura Tahiti" rate of only $94 per room-single, double, triple or quad. To book reservations, call 714 738-7800 and mention the Hura Tahiti special rate. Book now to avoid losing out on this opportunity.

With at least 18 dance groups represented at the event and 5 large group presentations, Hura Tahiti 2010 is shaping up to be full schedule event. All activities are taking place June 18-19, 2010 at Hope International University, 2500 E. Nutwood Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92831.

Hura Tahiti is a Tahitian dance competition featuring both solo and group performances. The event is produced by the award-winning Hitia O Te Ra group led by ra'atira Alex Tekurio. Last year, the dance group Manuia Polynesia took the overall group title. Soloists Evlyn Bustamante of Da Island Way and Glenn Salonga of Manuia Polynesia took the overall vahine and tane titles, respectively.

For more information on the event, visit the official Hura Tahiti website.

Event photos courtesy of David Do / www.ddodesign.com

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

Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

The 31st Annual Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete will be held at Merced County Fairgrounds on Friday March 26th, Saturday March 27th, and Sunday, March 28th 2010.

Those who enjoy a rich experience in traditional culture and dance will be enthralled by Friday’s presentation of the Solo Dance Competition eliminations and Saturday’s finalist performances, ranging in ages of 4 thru adult, beginners thru professional, both men’s and women’s categories.

Friday’s event also includes the Maeva Merced Polynesian Pageant, where lovely ladies and handsome gentlemen compete for the prestigious title of Miss and Mr. Maeva Merced. During the pageant, the Ahuroa (more formal Aparima dance style) Competition will be judged, as well as the Masters solo category finals.

The Solo Dancer Finals will be held on Saturday as well as the Tamari’i (children) Groups and Group Drumming Competition, featuring the most accomplished Tahitian Drumming groups in our area.

On Sunday morning, First Place winners of the Professional Soloists will compete for the Overall Vahine and Tane “Best Dancer Awards”. Also, Couples in Costume will take the floor with their colorful regalia and exciting duets! The afternoon will wind up with the Amateur and Professional Groups demonstrating their proficiency in the marvelous ‘Ote’a drum dances and the lively Aparima of Tahiti Nui! The very best Island Style cusine will be available throughout the event as well as authentic flower and Polynesian Craft Booths for your shopping pleasure.

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.

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

New Event - 1st Annual Heiva 'Ai 'Ai

Mark your calendar for the 1st "Heiva 'Ai 'Ai"! Saturday, May 29, 2010. If you are hungering for more knowledge ('Ai 'Ai), then check out this new event that will take place at St Louis High School Gymnasium on Oahu, Hawaii. The event features a solo vahine and tane competition, group ahuroa and ahupurotu competition, ...as well as the 1st Annual Miss Heiva 'Ai 'Ai pageant (ages 18-25).

Interested? Email us or send a message and we'll pass on the application once it is released.

The event is produced by Roiti Sylva and Blanche (Tera'i) Hanohano. Both are well established competition judges and have been an integral part in growing the Tahitian dance community.

This is an all day event filled with music, dance, food, and fun.

Deadline for dancer/group applications is March 5, 2010. Payment is due the following week March 12, 2010. Don't be late as there are no exceptions. Applications for Miss Heiva 'Ai 'Ai are due April 1, 2010. In addition, vendors are invited to showcase your crafts and talents in an audience always interested in Polynesian cultural handicrafts.

More information, guidelines and application coming soon.