Varua Tahiti E claims Hura Tahiti Title

The competition just keeps getting better and better. That can be said of every group that attended this years' Hura Tahiti event. The heiva, hosted by the Tahitian dance group Hitia O Te Ra and Ra'atira Alex Tekurio is now in its 4th year. Event activities took place at Hope International University in Fullerton, California.

This year saw Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, Utah claiming the top award in the junior division (Hura Ava Tau) by placing first in both Aparima and Otea. They also received a special recognition for having the best Ra'atira as well.

Overall Hura Tau (Senior Division) honors went to Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, California led by Torea King. The group also was awarded the best costume award.

Final results for the group competition are below:

Hura Ava Tau (Junior Division)

Group Aparima
1. Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT
2. Varua Hae of Huntington Beach, CA
3. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA

Group Otea
1. Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT
2. Varua Hae of Huntington Beach, CA
3. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA

Group Overall
1. Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT
2. Varua Hae of Huntington Beach, CA
3. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA


Hura Tau (Senior Division)

Group Aparima
1. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA
2. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA

Group Otea
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA

Group Ahupurotu
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA
3. Kanamu Dance Company of South Jordan, UT

Group Music
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Kei Alaha of Diamondbar, CA
3. Healii's Polynesian Revue of San Diego, CA

Group Drumming
1. Tupua of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA
3. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA

Best Ra'atira
Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT

Best Costume
Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA

Hura Ava Tau Overall
Fano Maohi of Salt Lake City, UT

Hura Tau Overall
Varua Tahiti E of Oceanside, CA

Hura Tahiti 2008 solo results

Hosted by the premier Tahitian dance group, Hitia O Te Ra, the Tahitian dance competition Hura Tahiti took place the last weekend of July at Hope International University in Fullerton, California.

Soloists and groups from California and Utah competed. In the end the overall soloist awards went to Justin "Froggie" Atthgan of Nemenzo who is no stranger to winning titles after winning the overall award at the Heiva i Honolulu earlier this year among others. Jeannie Case of Nonosina impressed the judges and audience alike by taking the overall vahine award. Video highlights of her performance may be found at YouTube.

Here are the results of the Hura Tahiti 2008 solo competition.

Tamahine 8-10
1. Sammy McClymonds - Independent
2. Dulce Gutierrez of APPA
3. Julie Basnett - Independent

Tamaroa 8-10
1. Arik Gaoay of Nonosina
2. Yuaki Goto of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Joshua Bennett of Nonosina

Taure'area'a Vahine 11-13
1. Jonel Perez of Nemenzo
2. Kanani Salonius of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Lily Nethington of Nonosina

Taure'area'a Tane 11-13
1. Garrison Kealoha Sudario of Nonosina
2. Ka'uka'uwaole Stanley of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Keoni Kanoa of Heali'is Polynesian Revue

Taure'area'a Vahine 14-17
1. Stefanie Efnor of Tausala
2. Tabitha Tabbert of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Victoria Goodrich of Varua Tahiti E

Taure'area'a Tane 14-17
1. Jordan Seanoa of Tupua
2. Nekoa Utai of Tupua
3. Noke Rimal of Kanamu Dance Company

Vahine 18-21
1. Lauren Macaraeg of Nonosina
2. Caroline Oh of Varua Tahiti E
3. Leolani Gallardo of Nonosina

Tane 18-21
1. Justin "Froggie" Atthgan of Nemenzo
2. Cameron Garcitos of Nonosina
3. Ryan Samn of Nemenzo

Vahine 22-26
1. Jeannie Case of Nonosina
2. Lizzy Gutierrez of Manea
3. Michelle Baker of Nemenzo

Tane 22-26
1. Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo
2. Otis of Tago Le Pasefika
3. Alvin Tapa of Tausala

Vahine 27-35
1. Desiree Woodward-Lee of Nemenzo
2. Julia Gore of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
3. Melody Seanoa of Tupua

Tane 27-35
1. Sonny Ganaden of Te Hura

Vahine 36+
1. Arleen Marcelo of Otea Api
2. Angela Villanueva of Te Hura
3. Leanne Johnston of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Island

Tane 36+
1. Tupua Seanoa of Tupua
2. Rey Manalac of Nemenzo
3. Jamel Dulolulao of Tupua

Overall Tane
Justin "Froggie" Atthgan of Nemenzo

Overall Vahine
Jeannie Case of Nonosina

Group results will be posted shortly.

Soloists shine at the 7th Annual Heiva i Kauai

Last week, Kapa'a Beach Park was the site for the 7th Annual Heiva i Kauai Ia Orana Tahiti dance competition. Audiences were treated to a premier solo competition with Chelsea Clement of Honolulu's Te ‘E’a o te Turama claiming the top soloist award. Not only did she repeat as the top dancer in her age category, she picked up the Overall Soloist award this year. This comes on the heals of titles she recently received at other events including the Tahiti Fete of Hilo and the Polynesian Cultural Center's Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti.

Highlighting the event was to be an artisan and dance group from Tahiti. However, due to a recent tragic accident and health issues for the group leader, the group was not able to attend. Despite the setback, that didn't stop the event from pleasing the crowds. A sold out crafters area and continuous workshops for dancers, drummers and musicians kept everyone busy and ready for the main competition. The Kauai Garden Island newspaper reported indepth. Check out their article by reporter Dennis Fujimoto.

Here are the final results from the event:

Vahine Age 4-7
1. Kyanna Asuncion of Halau Hula o Leilani
2. Angelina Rivera of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Tane Age 7-9
1. Kai Noah Ferris of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Vahine Age 7-9
1. Vaikehu Parker of Marania Haoragi
2. Tia Takahashi of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Sophia Rivera of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Tane Age 10-12
1. Kamuela Ferris of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Vahine Age 10-12
1. Cara Mia Kricken - Independent
2. Tahra-Lee Kaui of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Ashley Bowman of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Tane Age 13-15
1. Emmsley-James Drake of Rohotu

Vahine Age 13-15
1. Chelsea Clement of Te ‘E’a o te Turama
2. Kirstie Pii Matias of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Teresa Huff - Independent

Vahine Age 16-18
1. Kawahinehaaheo Oliver of Urahutia

Vahine Age 19-25
1. Lani Figaroa of Ori Uviira
2. Kauluwehiokekai Oliver of Urahutia
3. Kelcie Yomen of Urahutia

Vahine Age 26-39
1. Marie Mapa - Independent
2. Wailana Dasalia of Halau Hula o Leilani

Vahine Age 40 +
1. Louise Sausen - Independent


Overall Junior Tane
Kamuela Ferris of Ilima Rivera’s Hula Halau

Overall Junior Vahine
Cara Mia Kricken - Independent

Overall Senior Tane
Emmsley-James Drake of Rohotu

Overall Senior Vahine
Chelsea Clement of Te ‘E’a o te Turama

Kori Kori Tahiti Fete

Thanks to the helpful insight and inquiries of Vanessa Llave we were alerted to a fairly new heiva happening in Las Vegas. The Kori Kori Tahiti Fete is in its first year and takes place from Saturday November 8 to Tuesday November 11, 2008, Veteran's Day weekend, at the Del Sol High School Gymnasium (3100 E. Patrick Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89120). The event is organized by a committee of native Tahitians and Polynesians led by founder Ravahere Allred.

Highlights of the event include the "Miss Pearls of Polynesia" beauty pageant. Ravahere characterizes the contest proceedings similar to other island pageants such as the Miss Hawaii and Miss Tahiti pageants. She further explains that the event is a "fusion of cultures and a celebration of life." To help motivate contestants, she has put together among other things, a video of beauty pageant highlights, inspiration and tips. A group and solo Tahitian dancing competition will also highlight the event. It's a crowd favorite and a "must see" for any Tahitian dance event.

Unique to this event is a formal ball - The Royal Ball which will be held at the Bear's Best Country Club. The evening will celebrate and toast the new Miss Pearls of Polynesia. Reservations are required and seating is limited.

Another unique aspect to this new event is the chance for others other than the judges to vote for their favorite contestant and an opportunity to make a difference in the voting. Each ticket holder will be allowed to vote once.

Last but not least is the announcement that a portion of proceeds will be going to charity. With community service and involvement in mind, this event looks to help enrich and become a valuable memorable activity for all. We're looking forward to seeing the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete.

This event will be the last Tahitian dance competition event of 2008. Look for more information and the latest by visiting their website.

Nonahere repeats as top group at Heiva i Tahiti

The traditional Tahitian dance group Nonahere won first prize in the Claire Leverd Creation competition and the group Tamarii Tipaerui won first prize in the Madeleine Moua Heritage competition in the 126th Heiva i Tahiti.

Founded in 2003 by Matani Kainuku, Nonahere (blog in English) is based in Mahina. This is the second straight year that they have claimed the top honors.

Great photos of the event at Life is Love.

More information at Tahiti Presse

Watch a clip of Nonahere soloist Ravanui Longomazino's performance here.

Tahitian tamarii dance competition in Laie

The Polynesian Cultural Center had it's annual tamari'i Tahitian dance competition - Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti over the July 4th weekend. Chelsea Clement of Te'e'a o te Turama repeated as overall winner for the girls and L.J. Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii won the boys overall title.

There were approximately 100 participants at the competition. No groups performed this year.

Results of the 2008 competition:

Overall winner — Taure’are’a (12-18)
Girls: Chelsea Clement (14-15) of Te'e'a o te Turama
Boys: L.J. Mariteragi (14-15) of Nonosina Hawaii

Overall winner — Tamari’i (3-11)
Girls: Shandy Hopeau (9-11) of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
Boys: Jordan Mariteragi (9-11) of Nonosina Hawaii

Taure’are’a Division
Girls (16-18)
1. Kei Akoi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Dayna Higa of Manutahi
3. Monique Orton of Nonosina Hawaii

Boys (16-18)
1. L.J. Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Cameron Howser of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Girls (14-15)
1. Chelsea Clement of Te'e'a o te Turama
2. Angela-Jeanell Cezar of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Shayna Lei Soma of Tiare Ura O Tahiti

Boys (14-15)
1. Joshua Sorensen of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (12-13)
1. Jazmine Emerson of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Ashlen Kinilau of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3. Shanelle Ramelb of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Boys (12-13)
1. Kameron Ho Ching of Nonosina Hawaii

Tamari’i Division
Girls (9-11)
1. Shandy Hopeau of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
2. Macy S. Panajon of Pupu o te Iti Ra
3. Sabrina Parrish of Marania Haoragi

Boys (9-11)
1. Jordan Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Teancum Kaitoku of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Kaleb Ho Ching of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (7-8)
1. Chaylyn Navares of Manutahi
2. Amaya Joy Panajon of Pupu Ote Iti Ra
3. Poliahu Aina of Te’e’a o te Turama

Boys (7-8)
1. Micah Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Troy Spacek
3. Tiloi Lolotai of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (5-6)
1. Kanoe Navares of Manutahi
2. Kaylee Tabangay of Tiare Ura O Tahiti
3. Destiny Ramilo of Matarii Tahiti

Boys (5-6)
1. Teahu Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Teagan Kaitoku of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Kwinton Ho Ching of Nonosina Hawaii

Girls (3-4)
1. Keawaiki Jones of Marania Haoragi
2. Isabella Tran of Marania Haoragi
3. Nauya-Lei Furtado of Marania Haoragi

Boys (3-4)
1. Taliuli Vimahi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Qamdon Josue of Te’e’a o te Turama

Heiva i Reno 2008

On Friday, August 1st, Heiva i Reno will celebrate it's 10th year of Tahitian dance. Soloist and groups will compete to the theme of "Mehara" or memory. Organizers are looking to theme the event to a time when Tahitian dance was more "simple, innocent and beautiful."

Activities will be held at the Silver Legacy Hotel & Casino in Reno, Nevada. Doors open at 9:00am and tickets are $15 general seating and $20 for reserved seating.

Groups shine at Tahiti Fete of San Jose 2008

As one of the largest Tahitian dance competitions, the Tahiti Fete of San Jose has garnered great interest from dancers and dancers at heart. Producer Pua Tokumoto saw a sold out San Jose State University event center last weekend and full capacity at the nearby 4 hotels. Competition was intense and brought out the best in the participating groups. The event took place July 4-7, 2008.

For the first time in the competitions' history, the top award ended in a tie. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco and Vallejo, CA and Nonosina of Anaheim, CA both claimed the top spot.

Without further ado, here are the group results to this years' event:

TAMARI'I DIVISION
Tamari'i 'Ote'a
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
2. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
3. Le Polynesia of Lake Forest, CA

Tamari'i Aparima
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
2. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
3. Te Pura o Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA

Tamari'i Drumming
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA

HURA AVA TAU (Amateur)
'Otea:
1. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA
2. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
3. Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani of Stockton, CA

Aparima
1. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
2. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA
3. Kaleo'Onalani of San Diego, CA

Ahuroa
1. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
2. Makamae Melia o Polynesia of Elk Grove, CA
3. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA

Drumming
1. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA
2. E Honu Iti E of Tracy, CA
3. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA

Music
1. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA
2. E Honu Iti E of Tracy, CA
3. Tekurio Nui of Costa Mesa, CA

OVERALL HURA AVA TAU GROUP
Te Pura O Te Rahura'a of Pacifica, CA


HURA TAU (Professional)
'Otea:
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
3. Kawailehua of Fremont, CA

Aparima
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Da Island Way of Concord, CA
3. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA

Ahuroa
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. No Te Here o Te Hiroa of Fresno, CA
3. Manuia of Daly City, CA

Drumming
1. Here Tama Nui of Honolulu, HI
2. Nemenzo of Daly City, CA
3. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA

Music
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
3. Da Island Way of Concord, CA

'Ote'a Ori Rau - Contemporary 'Ote'a
1. Nonosina of Anaheim, CA
2. Kaleo'Onalani of San Diego, CA
3. Motu'Aina of Danville, CA

Tupuna Ahuroa - Mama Ru'au
1. Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
2. Tamali'i of Hayward, CA
3. Manuia of Daly City, CA

Traditional Costume: Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA
Contemporary Costume: Kaleo'Onalani of San Diego, CA
Ra'atira: Nonosina of Anaheim, CA

OVERALL HURA TAU GROUP: Tie (first time ever!)
Hui Tama Nui of San Francisco & Vallejo, CA & Nonosina of Anaheim, CA

Solo results will be posted once we receive the final list from the event organizers. In the meantime, we'd love to hear the personal stories and insights. Feel free to comment. We've also seen that there are quite a few videos popping up highlighting groups and soloists. Visit YouTube.

For more information, visit the event website.

Hura Tahiti 2008 revving up

In Garden Grove and Fullerton, California, organizers of Hura Tahiti 2008 are readying for the workshops and competition. The 4th annual Hura Tahiti competition will held July 24th, 25th and 26th at the Hope International University in Fullerton. General admission to the event is $15 per day.

This year, 4 premier Tahitian dance instructors are conducting workshops. Coco Hotahota, Roiti Sylva, Erena Mapuhi and Malia Tafua will be sharing their expertise and experience. Tahitian Otea workshop will be conducted by Coco Hotahota. Aparima and Kapa workshop will be conducted by Roiti Sylva. Both workshops will be held at sponsoring Marriott Fullerton on July 24th starting at 7pm.

Erena Mapuhi and Malia Tafua will be conducting the Basic Tahitian Dance Steps workshop a day before on July 23rd at the Hitia O Te Ra Studio in Garden Grove. Workshops will begin at 7pm.

Hosting group, Hitia O Te Ra will be conducting a Tahitian drumming workshop on July 24th, 7pm at their studio. Group leader Alex Tekurio will be instructing.

For more information, tickets and downloadable forms, visit their websites at www.huratahiti.com and www.hitiaotera.com

Heiva i Tahiti features Marquesan Arts

From the opening kava ceremony, Marquesan pahu drums welcomed audiences to this years Heiva i Tahiti. Opening ceremonies definitely had a Marquesan presence beginning with Cultural Minister Joseph Kaiha, who is from the northernmost Marquesas Islands. The Place To'ata in downtown Papeete is the location of the 126th Heiva i Tahiti taking place from July 8-18, 2008.

Solo competition began on Tuesday and group competition began Wednesday. As well as dancing, singing groups also competed on Wednesday. Activities will continue throughout the week and close on the 18th with exhibitions from event winners.

Other events including crafting competitions, javelin throwing, stone lifting, coconut tree climbing and canoe racing.

Visit Tahiti Presse for more information.

A whole lotta shakin' at Heiva i Kauai

Book your tickets now. In less than a month Kapa'a will host Kauai's own Heiva i Kauai Ia Orana. Taking place August 2-3, 2008 the event is now in its 7th year. Dancers are competing in solo and group categories. Drummers are also competing in traditional and contemporary categories. Last years best group, Tamarii A Hiva, from Oahu, will be hard pressed to repeat their overwhelming performance from last year.

This year will also feature a large contingency from Tahiti. Master drummer, Heimanu Tehahe and his group Tamarii No Faaa will be performing both days as a feature exhibition during the competition. In addition, the cultural artisans will be conducting Tahitian dance and drumming workshops and have a group of crafters from Tahiti accompanying them as well.

Both days will feature Island and Tahitian crafters and vendors, island food and cultural demonstrations. It's a recipe for spending the day having a great time.

Daily admission is $5, children 6 and under free. Competition application deadline is July 28, 2008. If you wish to participate in the Heiva, please download the application on their website and send it in before the deadline. Craft vendor forms are also available online as well. Tahitian guest artists are available to pre-schedule private drumming workshops: call 808.822.9447

Event organizers - Sally Jo & Tepairu M. Manea

For more information and to download forms, visit the official event website.

Heiva Nui 2009 announced

Provo, Utah will once again host Heiva Nui, Tradewindz Voyage Inc.'s Tahitian dance competition next year. Dates were announced via their website - March 24-28, 2009. Registration will begin August 15, 2008. The dance group "Hei Tahiti" from Tahiti will be a special guest who will undoubtably be conducting workshops and performing. For more information, email them at info@officialtvi.com

Of note also is a design contest for all those interested in Tahitian culture. Try your hand at creating the official design for the 2009 event tshirt. A $100 reward will be the prize.

Heiva i Tahiti 2008

Heiva i Tahiti - the original, the one that started it all. Sometimes called "Tahiti Fete" and sometimes called "Tiurai Festival", the Heiva i Tahiti takes place each year during the month of July. Activities take place on all islands and include not only the largest Tahitian dance competition in the world, but also traditional sporting events including javelin throwing, stone lifting, coconut tree climbing and canoe racing.

The main dance competition takes place at Place To'ata in the middle of Papeete, Tahiti. The competition is spread out over several days and brings together the best dance groups throughout French Polynesia. On Tuesday, July 8, 2008, opening ceremonies commence and the competition runs through Saturday, July 12, 2008. Results will be announced the following Thursday, July 17, 2008 and Final performances from winning soloists and dancers will conclude the competition on Friday, July 18, 2008.

As always, the schedule is subject to change.


Tuesday, July 8, 2008
7:30 pm - Opening Ceremony

8:15-10:00 pm - Solo Competition

Scheduled soloists from dance groups
Group 1: Nohoarii, Nonahere, Teata Maohi, and Ahutoru Nui

Group 2: Tamarii Teahupoo, Tamarii Tipaerui, Te Ui No Pare Nui, and Toerau Tarehu


Wednesday, July 9, 2008
7:00 pm - Group Category - Creation
NOHOARII

8:00 pm - Song Category
Tarava Raromatai
TAMARII TIPAERUI

Tarava Tuhaa Pae
TOERAU TAREHU

9:00 pm - Group Category - Creation
NONAHERE


Thursday, July 10, 2008
7:00 pm - Song Category
tarava raromatai
TE IU NO PARE NUI

7:30 pm - Group Category - Heritage
TEATA MAOHI

8:30 pm - Song Category
Tarava Tahiti
VAIARI NUI

Tarava Tahiti
TAMARII MATAIEA

9:20 pm - Group Category - Creation
AHUTORU NUI


Friday, July 11, 2008
7:00 pm - Song Category
Tarava Raromatai
TEHAU NUI NO PIRAE UTA

7:30 pm - Dance Category - Creation
TAMARII TEAHUPOO

8:30 pm - Song Category
Tarava Tahiti
TAMARII PAPARA

Tarava Tuhaa Pae
HAUTIMATEA

9:20 pm - Dance Category - Heritage
TAMARII TIPAERUI


Saturday, July 12, 2008
7:00 pm - Song Category
Tarava Tahiti
UI API NO ARUE

7:30 pm - Dance Category - Heritage
TE IU NO PARE NUI

8:30 pm - Song Category
Tarava Raromatai
TEMARAMA

Tarava Raromatai
TAMARII FANATEA

9:20 pm - Dance Category - Heritage
TOERAU TAREHU


Thursday, July 17, 2008
7:00 pm - Welcome

7:15 pm - Song Category
Awards Ceremony

8:45 pm - Dance Awards Ceremony


Friday, July 18, 2008
7:00-10:45 pm - Welcome

Song Category Award Winners Exhibition
Group and Soloist Category Award Winners Exhibition

Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas 2009

Mark your calendar. Las Vegas will once again host a premiere Tahitian dance event next year. Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas, organized by KP and Tetua Ioane, have announced that May 30-31, 2009 will be the dates for next years event. Activities will once again take place at the Cox Pavilion on the UNLV campus. This will mark the 7th year of the heiva.

This years event had Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands, Tepanie O Patitifa and Na Pua Ilima O Kehaulani take top group honors. Soloists came from a number of different dance groups throughout the Western US.

Not only do KP and Tetua Ioane run the Tahiti Tuarua Nui I Las Vegas, they also organize a Lei Day festival in May every year as well. In addition, they also run their own dance group Tamaeva Arii. The noncompeting group holds dance classes on Saturdays and Sundays for ages 5 and older.

Calling all Tahitian dance enthusiastic writers

We'd love to keep all our readers up to date all the time. We're looking for roaming reporters to help with keeping up with results and the "story" at the many Tahitian dance events. We receive requests all the time asking about results and we post as many as we can get from event organizers, but sometimes we just can't get the results that we want.

If you are interested in becoming a "roaming reporter" or correspondent, please let us know. Send us a sample of your original written work about Tahitian dance. Approved contributors can receive store credit at our online store - Black Pearl Designs. If your contribution is published, you will receive a writers credit and credit at our online store (to be determined depending on extent of content). Upon approval, submitting writer gives permission for Black Pearl Designs to publish above content on their website and publications.

Email us for details and event reporting needs.

Current reporting needs:
Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete - Merced, CA
Tahiti Fete of San Jose - San Jose, CA
Heiva i Tahiti - Papeete, French Polynesia
Heiva i Reno - Reno, NV

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas solo and group results

Here's the results of the recent Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas which took place at the UNLV campus Cox Pavilion. Visit the official website for more information.

Tamarii Tamahine 5-8yrs
1. KENNEDY DRAGON of Le Polynesia
2. ALII ZAMORA of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. KIRSTEN WONG of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands

Tamarii Tamaroa 5-8 yrs
1. PALANI WILLINGHAM of Tevakanui

Tamarii Tamahine 9-12 yrs
1. ABIGAIL CAMACHO of Tevakanui
2. MELIA BERNAL of Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands
3. NANI KITASHIMA of Tevakanui

Tamarii Tamaroa 9-12 yrs
1. CHAZ WALTER of Tevakanui

Tamahine 13-17 yrs
1. LYDIA DAVILA of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
2. HEU TAUMOEFOLAU of Tevakanui
3. ALEX JOHNSON of Hitia O Te Ra

Tamaroa 13-17 yrs
1. THOMAS TAPUSOA of Tevakanui

Vahine Taurearea 18-24 yrs
1. VICTORIA ABATAY of Tupua
2. KRYSTLE COCADIZ of Hitia O Te Ra
3. MAHALENE DULAY of Hitia O Te Ra

Tane Taurearea 18-24 yrs
1. CHRIS CASELLA of Hitia O Te Ra

Vahine Ui Api 25-34 yrs
1. COLIE BERBANO of Tevakanui
2. MAKO SAKO of Le Polynesia
3. ANNA MALLARI of Tupua

Vahine Paari 34+ yrs
1. SHEILA KEIKILANI WALSTEAD of Le Polynesia
2. PINKY WRIGHT of Halau 'O Na Ali'i
3. MICHELLE SWANSON of Puahi's Polynesian Dancers

Vahine Paari Ora Toa Tahi
1. NORMA CHEEK of Puahi's Polynesian Dancers

Pupu Otea Amui
1. TEPANIE O PATITIFA

Pupu Otea Tamarii Api
1. LOKELANI'S RHYTHM OF THE ISLANDS of Huntington Beach, CA

Pupu Taurearea Otea
1. NA PUA ILIMA O KEHAULANI of Chula Vista, CA

Pupu Aparima Tamarii Api
1. LOKELANI'S RHYTHM OF THE ISLANDS of Huntington Beach, CA

Kauai Polynesian Festival honors

The 8th Annual Kauai Polynesian Festival took place in Lihue, Hawaii recently. Dance groups participated in not only Tahitian, but also Maori, Hawaiian and Samoan. Results for the Tahitian dance competition are listed below. Other results and information about the event are available on the Kauai Polynesian Festival official website. Event organizers also announced the dates for next years' event - May 21-24, 2009.

TAHITIAN GROUP OTEA
Junior Division
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
2. Tiare Ura O Tahiti of Kahuku, HI
3. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

Senior Division
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
2. Tiare Ura O Tahiti of Kahuku, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP OTEA BEST COSTUME:
Te Hamata of Laie, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP APARIMA
Junior Division
1. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

Senior Division
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP APARIMA BEST COSTUME
Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

TAHITIAN GROUP AHUPUROTU
Senior Division
1. Ka pa Hula O Pualani Puamelia
2. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
3. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

TAHITIAN DRUMMING COMPETITION:
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI
2. Manutahi of Wahiawa, HI
3. Te Ea O Te Turama of Oahu, HI

2008 OVERALL TAHITIAN GROUP
1. Te Hamata of Laie, HI

ORI TAHITI SOLOISTS
Junior Division
Tane Ages 4-6
1. Qamdon Josue

Vahine Ages 4-6
1. Jeida Angelina Toilolo
2. Kaylee Tabangay
3. Leleaka Anakalea

Tane Ages 7-9
1. Troy Spacek

Vahine Ages 7-9
1. Tiare Naone Judd
2. Tehani Perkins
3. Dizhae Josue

Tane Ages 10-12
1. Jay Spacek
2. Zacchaus Uta
3. Tamatoa Uta

Vahine Ages 10-12
1. Maeleen Hopeau
2. Cami Keliinui
3. Sandy Hopeau

Senior Division
Tane Ages13-17
1. Moni Tiata
2. Emmsley James K. Drake
3. Rhansyn Leehong

Vahine Ages13-17
1. Chelsea Clement
2. Shayna Lei Soma
3. Lia Kaupoe

Tane Ages 18-21
1. James Taulog
2. Shane Galicia
3. Aaron Dung

Vahine Ages 18-21
1. Kauluwehiokekai Oliver
2. Cavalei Wilson
3. Kelcie Yoman

Tane Ages 22-25
1. Julian Maeva

Vahine Ages 22-25
1. Shaeja Lee
2. Leah Sausen

Tane Ages 26-30
1. Ambrose Aukustino

Vahine Ages 26-30
1. Pualani Avaeoru
2. Shannon Pauoli-Paraan
3. Alma Damo

Tane Ages 31-39
1. William Maycong

Vahine Ages 31-39
1. Belinda Miranda
2. Kehau Aina
3. Tasha Josue

Tane Ages 40 & Over
1. Gene Gabriel

Vahine Ages 40 & Over
1. Louse Sausen

TAHITIAN COUPLES COMPETITION
Junior Division
1. Tehani Perkins & Tamatoa Uta
2. Poerava Lee & Zacchaus Uta

Senior Division
1. Kirsten McCraken & Emmsley James Drake
2. Chelsea Clement & Kai Lee

OVERALL TANE & VAHINE POLYNESIA
2008 Tane Polynesia - Julian Maeva
2008 Vahine Polynesia - Kauluwehiokekai Oliver

Additional information can be found at the Kauai Polynesian Festival official website. Additional reporting at Kauai Garden Island News.

Schedule for the Tahiti Fete of San Jose

The Tahiti Fete of San Jose is getting ready. Tickets are now available on their website. According to the site, tickets are running $20 per day. Group tickets are available until May 31, 2008.

Activities:
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Solo Eliminations Gateway Ballroom
Double Tree Hotel San Jose 9:00am - 2:00pm

Friday, July 4, 2008
Solo Dance Finals
Ahuroa Group Dances
Tamarii (Children) Group performances
Polynesian Guest Performers
San Jose State University Event Center 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday, July 5, 2008
"Hura Ava Tau" - Amateur Groups
Drumming & Music Competition
Polynesian Guest Performers
San Jose State University Event Center 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Sunday, July 6, 2008
"Hura Tau" - Professional Group Dances
Polynesian Guest Performers
Symphony of Drums
Award Ceremonies
San Jose State University Event Center 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Video Passes are $25 a day or $55 for a Weekend Pass.

The DoubleTree Hotel San Jose is sold-out. The Holiday Inn San Jose (408) 993-1234 is offering a rate of $89 for up to 2 in a room and $99 for up to 4 in a room, two queen beds.

Heiva i Kauai schedule set

On August 2-3, 2008 the Kapaa Beach Park on Kauai will once again become the site of Heiva i Kauai. Now in its seventh year, the event features Tahitian dance solo, group and drumming competitions. The event will also feature multi-cultural exhibition dancing, singing and crafts. Vendors will have an array of items from South Pacific islands for sale.

Applications, contact information and more details are available online at the official website. Deadline for applicants is July 28, 2008. Admission is $5 per day and children 6 and under are free. Gates open on both days at 10am with competition and activities starting at 11am.

On Saturday afternoon, August 2nd and Sunday morning, August 3rd, multi-cultural workshops, including Tahitian dance, choreography, and drumming will be held. Solo competition will start on Saturday. Group competition will follow and continue through Sunday. Awards will be announced at the completion of competition on Sunday.

Te Mana O Te Ra presents Ha'amana'o

Color, dance, pageantry and music of Tahiti are but a few of the highlights you'll experience at Te Mana O Te Ra's Ha'amana'o... a time to remember. The event takes place on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California. Admission is $25, children (under 12) and seniors are $23. Tickets may be purchased by calling (925) 943-SHOW or by visiting www.lesherartscenter.org

If you would like more information, please contact Te Mana O Te Ra by calling (925) 943-5327 or emailing temanaotera@aol.com
It's an event for the whole family.

Heiva i Maui 2008 flyer

The 11th Annual Heiva i Maui is set to take place Friday-Sunday, August 8-10, 2008. Activities take place at the Maui War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku. On Friday the solo competition as well as Mr. & Miss Heiva i Maui crowning will take place from 6-10 pm. Saturday will continue with the solo competition and move to the group competition. Group competition will complete and awards will be given on Sunday. Both Saturday and Sunday's activities will run from 10 am - 6 pm.

For more information, inquiries or contacting organizers, please visit their website.

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.

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas 2008

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas is coming May 24-25. Now in its sixth year, the event, produced by Tetua Ioane features both solo and group competitions. At least 24 groups or soloists representing Tahitian dance groups throughout the nation are scheduled to perform.

Tickets are $17 per day ($12 for children ages 2-12) and can be purchased by calling UNLV Ticket Call Center at (702) 739-FANS (3267) or (866) 388-FANS (3267). You can also order online at www.UNLVtickets.com

Event information, group applications and questions can be referred to
Tetua Ioane
Tamaeva Arii, Inc.
P.O. Box 70988
Las Vegas, NV 89170 U.S.A.

Tele: (702) 251-5793
Fax: (702) 220-9308

Visit the event website for more details.

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.

Fano Maohi Heiva postponed

Well, it's a bit late and we apologize for not getting this information out sooner. We've been busy trying to keep up with orders and introducing our new Tehani Pareo to the public. We're trying to get back on track and have some updates. The first update is news of the postponement of the Fano Maohi Heiva. The event is to now take place August 15-16, 2008. Originally, it was to take place last weekend but organizers decided recently to combine their two events into one. Their other event is a Tonga Tau'o'lunga Dance Festival. That event will take place a day before on August 14th.

We'll keep tabs on this event and try to get more details as it gets closer to the event date.

Heiva Nui 2008 - Provo, Utah

Just announced - Heiva Nui, a Tahitian dance competition in Provo, Utah will take place June 20-21, 2008 at Tahitian Noni International. The annual event now in its fifth year is part of a festival sponsored by Tradewindz Voyage Incorporated.

Activities include a scholarship pageant, dance group and solo competitions. For more information, registration and tickets, please visit their website - http://www.officialtvi.com - email them at info@officialtvi.com or call (801) 380-1298.

Hawaiian Merrie Monarch Festival features Te Vai Ura Nui exhibition

The recent victory of Charles and Cathy Temanaha's Te Vai Ura Nui Tahitian dance group has opened up an opportunity for the group to perform at Hawaii's premier Hula competition in Hilo, Hawaii - The Merrie Monarch Festival. This wasn't the first time that the group performed at the festival, but it's been four years since their last performance there.

The group repeated their award-winning performance from last month's Heiva i Honolulu. Choreographed by the Temanaha's, it is a love story called "Manino and Fanovai." It tells of an ancient Tahitian tale where the men are fishing while the women wait on the shore. When the men return with the speared fish, the women greet and surround them as if to make a living net.

As they return, a brave young fisherman catches the eye of a young maiden. He makes his desire known but her father doesn't approve. The father believes that the young man will not be able to provide for his daughter. Yet, the couples love continues to grown and is seen as they perform a couples' dance together. The young man's friends show their support by performing rigorous haka and the girls show their approval as well by performing a slow and graceful aparima. It all comes to a happy ending as the couple is married and all celebrate the new couples' life together.

With so much passion for their performance and desire to tell a story, it's no wonder Te Vai Ura Nui came away with top honors at the competition last month.

To perform at Hawaii's Merrie Monarch Festival is seen as a great privilege. The festival's main activities run Thursday (Miss Aloha Hula), Friday (Hula Kahiko) and Saturday (Hula Au'wana) April 3-5, 2008.

Manutahi Orlando impresses at Tamari'i Tahiti Fete

This past weekend saw the Tamari'i Tahiti Fete of Orlando take center stage in the Tahitian dance community. Family, competitors and guests gathered at Oak Ridge High School Gymnasium to watch this growing solo competition.

Tamari'i Tahiti Fete of Orlando saw an impressive showing from Manutahi Orlando. The group is a branch of the main group based on Oahu in Hawaii headed by Pola Teriipaia. Locally it is headed by Mahea Apo.

The competition was opened up to all ages this year. Visit the official website for more details and information about the event.

http://tamariifete.kpohana.com/index.html

2008 Solo Ori Winners
Ages 3-5
Vahine
1. Leilani Swider of Manutahi Orlando
2. Laniloa Mau'ia of Manutahi Orlando
3. Alyssa Murpy of Halau 'O Manulani

Ages 6-8
Vahine
1. Elaina Nevarez of Na Opiopio I Orlando
2. Amya Diaz of Halau 'O Manulani

Ages 9-12
Vahine
1. Natalie Oloa, Independent
2. Cheyenne Sky Romanillos, Independent
3. Melinda Nevarez of Na Opiopio I Orlando

Ages 13-16
Vahine
1. Chiana Jim of Manutahi Orlando
2. Marshae Bray Mamea of Siva 'A Manu
3. Giovanni Brown of Manutahi Orlando

Ages 17-22
Vahine
1. Grace Cabusi of Manutahi Orlando
2. Marlena Samuels of Siva 'A Manu
3. Tasi Galeai of Touch of Paradise

Ages 23 and up
Vahine
1. Celena Kaleonahenahe Faronda of Halau Kahealani

Tane
1. Tony Paialii of Touch of Paradise

Samoan Category
1. Priscilla Tauti of Halau Kahealani

..................................................

2008 Special Awards
Overall Junior Soloist
Elaina Nevarez of Na Opiopio I Orlando

Overall Senior Soloist
Tony Paialii of Touch of Paradise

Best Costume
Tiane Maluhia Kong of Manutahi Orlando

Overall Perpetual Group
Manutahi Orlando (Mahea Apo)

Te Aranui O Tahiti - The Route To Tahiti... and more

The month of April is featuring three great events featuring Tahitian dance. On Saturday, April 19th, the expanded Manutahi Tahiti dance group hosts their 2nd Tahitian Solo Competition at Waimea Falls Park on Oahu, Hawaii. Registration deadlines are fast approaching, so get your entry applications in as soon as possible. See their website to download their registration packet.

On Friday and Saturday, April 25-26, 2008, the Fano Maohi Heiva will be taking place at Granite Park Jr. High, located at 3031 South 200 East in Salt Lake City, Utah. Visit their website for details, ticket information and registration packets.

Most recently we received news of another new event - in it's second year, Te Aranui O Tahiti - The Route to Tahiti, will also be happening on the same weekend at San Francisco State University in Northern California. The two day event (Saturday and Sunday, April 26-27, 2008) encompasses not only solo and group exhibitions, but also intensive workshops in dance and music. The non competitive event will be showcasing some of California's top Tahitian dance groups including Tamali'i of Hayward, Te Orama of Daly City, 'Ote'a 'Api of Fremont, Tiare O Te Ao of SF/Hercules, Nemenzo of SF/Daly City, and Toa Here of Hilo, Hawaii among others.

Organizer and producer, Elizabeth Nemenzo Bertumen (who also produces the annual Tarena Tahiti event in September) and hosts, Ms. Roiti Tahauri Sylva and Mr. Etua Tahauri, have created a non-competitive atmosphere where award-winning Tahitian dance experts including Coco Hotahota of Tahiti will be providing soloists with written evaluations upon completion.

Visit the Te Aranui O Tahiti website (www.myspace.com/tearanuiotahiti) for more information, schedule, registration packets and the latest news on this event. General admission is $10. Contact by phone - (415) 425-1662 or email tearanuiotahiti@yahoo.com.

Check back with us or subscribe to our newsfeed as we receive more details on these and other future Tahitian dance events.

Photos of the Heiva i Honolulu 2008 event

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

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 Group Results

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OVERALL

VAHINE
Tehinamai Mataele of Ma'ohi Nui

TANE
Justin "Froggie" Atangan of Nemenzo


GROUP AWARDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tahiti Festival - Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) was a main sponsor at this year's Heiva i Honolulu at the Waikiki Shell in Honolulu. Banners announced that this year's solo competition at PCC will be on July 5, 2008. This marks the last of this years summer events to firm up a date for for their events. Check out our event directory on our website, Black Pearl Designs, for all the events this year.

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 solo results

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

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

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

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

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


SOLOIST AWARDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

29th Annual Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete Press Release

29TH Annual KIKI RAINA TAHITI FETE
Tahitian Dance Competition and Cultural Festival
www.kikiraina.com

Merced County Fairgrounds – March 14, 15, 16, 2008

The 29th Annual Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete will be held at the Merced County Fairgrounds. The longest existing, annually held, Tahitian Dance and Cultural Festival outside of French Polynesia will be on Friday, March 14 from 9am – 9pm, Saturday the 15th, from 9am – 9pm and on Sunday the 16th from 9am – 6pm.

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 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 Tamari’i (children), 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 FOOD will be available throughout the event as well as authentic flower and Polynesian Craft Booths for your shopping pleasure.

TICKET INFORMATION

Age 13 thru Adult - $15 advanced sale $17 at the door Child age 5 thru 12yrs - $10 advanced sale $12 at the door 3day pass, advanced sale only - adult $35, Child $25

For more information, Call Pacifica at 209 726-1925 between 10am and 6pm, Mon thru Sat. Advance sale tickets may be purchased through March 13th. Tickets are limited.

Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete 2008

There's a big happening on the March 14-16 weekend in Merced, California. Tahitian dance groups throughout the area and beyond will be competing in the longest running Tahitian dance event outside of Tahiti. The Merce Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete is organized by long time cultural supporter Becky Manandic who also runs her Polynesian store - Pacifica, in Merced. In her store you'll be able to peruse through unique Polynesian jewelry, pareos, Hawaiiana and a selection of island crafts and gifts. If you are in the area, feel free to visit and get the inside scoop about the event from her personally.

The competition will begin with a traditional solo competition and followed up in the evening with the Maeva Merced Pageant where tane (men) and vahine (women) compete for the coveted titles of Mr. and Miss Maeva Merced.

On Saturday and Sunday, group competition commences, cultural demonstrations, crafts and island foods, and soloist finals take the stage. Groups will compete in a number of categories including aparima, otea, ahuroa, drumming. Activities on Sunday will conclude with a tamari'i (children) exhibition.

The Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete is located at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Tickets are available at Pacifica or by calling 209-726-1925 from 10am and 6pm PDT. Visit the official website for details.

Heiva i Honolulu 2008 update

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

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

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.

New updates for 2008 Tahitian dance events

Mele Kalikimaka. As you take in the hustle & bustle, excitement, music and thoughts this holiday season, you might have noticed that we didn't update as often. It's been a busy season for our online store and it's kept us away for a bit. But now that Christmas has passed and our load is a little lighter, we're back to updating and bringing the latest info about the upcoming events. Tahitian events are gearing up for 2008.

New event updates include the Fano Maohi, Heiva i Reno, Heiva i Maui and the Tahiti Fete of Utah. With most events now updated with confirmed dates, 2008 is shaping up to be a banner year with more events and more opportunity for groups around the nation. With the amount of groups who are increasingly finding our directory/calendar, comes more convenience for groups to schedule their events and attract dancers to participate.

Fano Maohi marketing manager, Danny Tupua has recently advised us of the new 2008 date. Moving from July to April, this year's event is one of the first of the year. The Fano Maohi Heiva will run from April 25-26, 2008 in Salt Lake City, Utah at Granite Park High.

Utah's other Tahitian dance competition, Tahiti Fete of Utah, has also announced their 2008 date. The 4th annual event will take place October 16-18, 2008 in West Valley City. Details about the activities will be forthcoming. This past year, the event was free to the public.

Heiva i Reno will take place on August 1, 2008. The event will be 1 day. A second day (August 2) will feature Hawaiian Hula.

Tahitian Dance calendar update

The year 2007 has showed tremendous growth in the Tahitian dance. Competition events are growing not only in numbers but also in strength and competitors. Coordination is continually improving and eventually we hope to see a world competition. Dancer quality and creativity is also always improving.

This year saw 12 major competition events and 2008 will see at least that many. More than half have confirmed dates and/or locations. Confirmed events will take place in Hawaii, California, Nevada, Utah, Florida, Tahiti and Japan. Many young dance groups who have not competed in the major events are maturing and planning to participate in the near future.

As all this activity is continually growing we are working to make as much of that information available. Here is an updated calendar of Tahitian dance events. Check our website or blog for updates and as always, check the official event websites for more details if available.

March 13-15, 2008
Heiva i Honolulu Honolulu, HI

March 14-16, 2008
Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete Merced, CA

March 29, 2008
Tamari'i Tahiti Fete Orlando, FL

May 22-25, 2008
Kauai Polynesian Festival Lihue, HI

May 24-25, 2008
Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV

July 4-7, 2008
Tahiti Fete of San Jose San Jose, CA

July 25-26, 2008
Hura Tahiti Cerritos, CA

July 2008
Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti Laie, HI

July 2008
Fano Maohi Salt Lake City, UT

July 2008
Heiva i Tahiti Papeete, Tahiti

July 2008
Heiva International i Tahiti Papeete, Tahiti

August 2-3, 2008
Heiva i Kauai Kapaa, HI

August 30-31, 2008
Tahiti Heiva - Japan Tokyo, Japan

August 31, 2008
Heiva i Japan Tokyo, Japan

August 2008
Heiva i Reno Reno, NV

August 2008
Heiva i Maui Wailuku, HI

September 2008
Tarena Tahiti Daly City, CA

September 2008
Pacific Islander Festival San Diego, CA

October 2008
Tahiti Fete of Hilo Hilo, HI

October 2008
Tahiti Fete of Utah West Valley City, UT

2008
Manutahi Tahiti Honolulu, HI

All dates and locations are subject to change according to each individual event director.

2008 Tahiti Nui Heiva I Japan

One of the most exciting and rapidly expanding Tahitian dance event is the Heiva I Japan. With local dance groups eagerly joining up to compete, organizers Kenzo Tanaka and Ayumi Sugiyama recently announced the dates for the 3rd Annual Heiva I Japan. Activities will take place August 31, 2008 in Tokyo at the Meilpark Hall Hotel.

As a sister event to Heiva I Honolulu, it builds upon a growing interest in Japan for Tahitian dance. Now in its third year, the event has become an exciting addition to the Tahitian dance competition family.

Ticket information, applications and deadline information are available on the official website. Competition categories include solo and group Ori Tahiti, Ahupurotu, Aparima, Otea and Tamarii (children) and Tupuna (senior). Ori Tahiti soloist Meimi Horiuchi (pictured top left) of the dance group Tiare Heipua and overall soloist Momoko Hoshihara (pictured below left) of Te Pupu 'Ori Mehanaokara will be among other competitors ready to defend their titles. The activities include exhibition performances. Check back often for updates. We're also providing a computer translated version of the Japanese website for those who cannot read Japanese.

For a complete look at all major Tahitian dance events, visit our website, Black Pearl Designs, for the complete list of Heiva and Tahiti Fete.

2008 Hura Tahiti

Cerritos, California will once again transform into a Tahitian cultural paradise July 25-26, 2008 for the 4th Annual Hura Tahiti competition. Dance groups througout California, Hawaii, and the mainland will participate in group, solo and drumming competitions. Event organizer, Alex Tekurio announced "there will be 2 groups from Tahiti that will participate in our Hura Tahiti and we will have 2 categories for groups – professional and amateur."

More details, applications, and ticket information will be posted as it becomes available.

For a complete list of up-to-date information on Heiva & Tahiti Fete and Tahitian dance groups throughout the nation, visit our website.

2008 Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas

Tamaeva Arii, Inc. recently announced that the 2008 Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas will be offering a thrilling weekend of dance competition in the Entertainment Capital of the World - Las Vegas! Participating dance groups will be competing in group, solo, drumming, couples, and himene (singing) categories.

The fifth annual Tahiti Taurua Nui I Las Vegas will be held on Saturday and Sunday, May 24th & 25th, 2008 (Memorial Day weekend) at the COX Pavilion at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).

2008 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

Event organizer Becky Manandic has announced that the 2008 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete will take place March 14-16, 2008. The Merced County Fairgrounds will again serve as the location for the competition and activities.

This event is distinguished as the longest existing Tahitian Dance and Cultural Festival held outside of French Polynesia. As such it also serves as one of the first major competitions of the year.

Organizers are working on finalizing applications and event program. Visit the official site for updates and information needed to participate and purchase tickets.

For more information and a schedule of all Tahitian Dance events throughout the country, visit our website - Black Pearl Designs.

2007 Heiva I Reno group results

The group competition results for the 2007 Heiva I Reno have been hard to find but we finally were able to locate a source who had most of the information.

Group Competition
Ta'ata Pa'ari Overall
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Ta'ata Pa'ari Otea
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA
2. Manava Polynesia of Fountain Valley, CA
3. Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua of Merced, CA

Jr. Otea
1. Manava Polynesia of Fountain Valley, CA
2. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA
3. Motu'aina of Danville, CA

Ta'ata Pa'ari Aparima
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA
2. Manava Polynesia of Fountain Valley, CA
3. Motu'aina of Danville, CA

Jr. Aparima
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA
2. Manava Polynesia of Fountain Valley, CA
3. Motu'aina of Danville, CA

Couples
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA
2. Nemenzo of Daly City, CA
3. E Honu Iti E of Tracy, CA

Contemporary Drumming
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Traditional Drumming
1. Manava Polynesia of Fountain Valley, CA

Language
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Costume
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Music
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Theme
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Leadership
1. Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA

Participating Groups
E Honu Iti E of Tracy, CA
Hiva Nui of Stockton, CA
Hui Tama Nui of Vallejo, CA
Makamae Melia O Polynesia of Elk Grove, CA
Manava Polynesia of Fountain Valley, CA
Motu'aina of Danville, CA
Nemenzo of Daly City, CA
Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani of Stockton, CA
Ote'a Api of Reno, NV
Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua of Merced, CA

Heiva I Honolulu 2008 date update

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

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