Manutahi Tahitian Solo Dance Competition

Press release from Manutahi Tahiti

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

City of Merced takes notice of Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

The Merced County Times will be doing an article on the 2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete in a couple days. Here's a link to their teaser with a picture of a couple of dancers taking a quick pict to remember their time there.

News of the upcoming Tarena Tahiti competition

Letter from Elizabeth Nemenzo Bertumen, Producer of the Tarena Tahiti and Te Aranui O Tahiti events:

IaOrana Tatou,

We invite you to come and enjoy this year’s Tarena Tahiti for the 2010 Tahitian Calendar. The event is a Costume & Solo Ori Tahiti Competition awarding 12 winners representing the months of the year leading to the coveted 1st Place & Cover. Selection for the Overall Tane & Vahine is from the pool of 1st place winners with the highest combined scores from the Parade of Costume and Ori Tahiti. This unique competition is not limited to just top 3 dancers but 12 winners representing the months of the year for the 3 separate categories (calendar editions) Tamari’i (ages 5‐12 yrs), Junior (13‐17 yrs) and Adult (18yrs + up). Entry fee is $35.

Many talented dancers that may otherwise not be acknowledged have the opportunity to be recognized. By the end of the event, there will be a maximum of 12 Tane & 12 Vahine winners for each of the categories: Tamari’i, Junior and Adult. In addition, a special award will be given for Best Tane & Vahine Costume and a final award for the Overall Tane & Vahine Dancer.

The two‐part series of the event determines the ideal Tahitian Soloist. Opening with the Parade of Costumes, dancers set the tone with innovative Tahitian creations from unique , simple designs to bold originals. It is then followed by the Ori Tahiti (dance) portion completing the qualities of a Tahitian soloist.

Tarena Tahiti will be held, Saturday, April 18, 2009 at the San Francisco State University Gym located at 1600 Holloway Street, San Francisco, Ca. General admission is $15. For your convenience, the campus has a multi level structure with ample parking. SFSU is conveniently located within minutes of all the San Francisco attractions and a short distance from the San Francisco Airport. The festivities continue the following day on Sunday, April 19, 2009 with Te Aranui O Tahiti (Tahitian Festival) featuring hourly group exhibitions at the same SFSU location. Interested groups and information on participating groups and their showtimes visit www.myspace.com/tearanuiotahiti or contact tearanuiotahiti@yahoo.com. Support and watch the group of your choice with a general admission price of $10.

Tarena Tahiti personifies the ideal Tahitian Dancer, their passion, skill and artistry for the culture. It is a festive event with Polynesian artisans showcasing their crafts on the beautiful grounds of the campus. Dancers from all over will enjoy not only the challenges of the competition but also the other attributes of the event, the artisans, vendors and the people who come to share in the excitement and allure of the Tahitian culture.

Mauruuru roa,
Elizabeth Nemenzo Bertumen, Producer

Heiva i Reno 2009 moves up their date

Moving from their traditionally annual August date, organizers of the Heiva i Reno 2009 have announced their dates for this year to be July 24-25, 2009.

Tahitian dance group taking "Hiva" show international

Tumata Robinson is taking her Tahiti Ora traditional dance group international with performances of its "Hiva" show in France, Canada and New Caledonia, with a preview of its performance held in Tahiti next week.

An expanded show with eight new choreographic numbers and 300 redesigned costumes will be presented at 8 pm on April 3 and April 4 in the Grand Theater of the Papeete Cultural Center.

More at Tahiti Presse

Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete schedule

Now celebrating it's 30th Anniversary, the 2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete is set to begin tomorrow. The three day event runs from March 27-29, 2009. Activities are located at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Tickets are:

Adult: $15 Advance / $17 at door - Adult = age 13 and up
Child: $10 Advance / $12 At Door - Child = age 5-12

The event not only features Tahitian dance and pageantry, but is also featuring memories of the past years' events. A 30th anniversary commemorative program will be available for purchase. The Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete is the longest existing, annually held, Tahitian Dance and Cultural Festival outside of French Polynesia. The event is produced by Becky Manandic. Island Style food and Polynesian craft booths will be open throughout the event as well.

Here is the schedule for the 2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete. (Schedule is subject to change):

Friday, March 27th
8:00am Registration
9:00am Opening Ceremonies
Solo Eliminations with House Drummers (4-6, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15)
12:30pm Lunch
1:30pm Competition continues (16-18, 19-24, 25-34, Masters)
6:00pm Miss and Mr. Maeva Merced Pageant, Masters Solo Finals and
Ahuroa Group Presentations
8:00pm Awards

Saturday, March 28th
8:00am Registration - Solo Finalists, Group Drummers
9:00am Solo Finals Begin (4-6, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15)
12:00pm Lunch - Tamari'i exhibition
1:00pm Tamari'i Groups
1:30pm Drumming Group Competition followed by Solo Finals
(16-18, 19-24, 25-34)
6:00pm Awards

Sunday, March 29th
8:00am Registration - 1st Place Advanced Soloists, Couples in Costume, Tamari'i Groups, Amateur and Professional Groups
10:00am Opening Prayer, Jr. and Sr. Overall Vahine and Tane Soloist Competition
11:00am Couples in Costume Tamure
12:00pm Lunch - Line Dance and Salsa Demo
1:00pm Novice Groups
2:00pm Amateur Groups
3:30pm Professional Groups
5:00pm Awards

Updates and results will be available as soon as we receive them.

Kona Heiva

Carol Akau Casil coordinated and brought to life the original Tahiti Fete to Hawaii (Kauai-Tahiti Fete). Casil's Temana Rose Productions has recently announced their first event - 1st Annual Heiva (Tahitian Celebration) - happening in Kailua-Kona August 21-23, 2009.

This event will include Solo & Couples Dance Competition 5 yrs & up, Drumming competition, Art Contest for Middle School 6th - 8th grade & High School 9th - 12th., A canoe race for ages 12 - 19, & the Parade of costumes contest.

More information will be coming as this event develops.

Tau Rima - Crafting Performance at the University of Hawaii

The University of Hawaii's Hamilton Library was host to a reception Thursday evening featuring Tahitian dance crafting - Tau Rima: Crafting Performance. Curator and graduate student Scott G. Bartlett has been researching and working with several Tahitian culture artisans in the community. The colorful exhibit is part of the culmination of his work. The Tahitian dance costumes are striking. Each are thought out and themed to specific dances using natural materials such as lauhala or raufara (pandanus), mother of pearl shell, niau (coconut fibers), and more (wild hibiscus fibers).

Tahitian musical instruments including toere, pahu, fa'ate'ete, ihara, and vivo, adornments, implements and jewelry are included in the exhibit. Carvings such as a beautiful Marquesan U'u club and an ornately carved Tahitian ukulele are also displayed.

In the opening ceremony, Etua Tahauri, a pillar of the Hawaii Tahitian community, accomplished master carver and frequent judge at Tahitian dance competition events, noted that many of the old ways of making the crafts of Tahiti are kept with the older generation. He was grateful to be able to share with the newer generations some of the knowledge in the hopes that they will continue and share the traditions and craft.

Featured artisans in the exhibit include Etua Tahauri (drums, carvings, mother of pearl jewelry), Mafatu Krainer (drums, carvings, mother of pearl jewelry), Charles and Cathy Temanaha (costumes) and Tyron Temanaha (drumming display) of Te Vai Ura Nui, Pola Teriipaia (costumes) of Manutahi Tahiti and Tahia Parker (costumes) of Marania Haoragi. Many others contributed to the exhibit including Rose Perreira, Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui, Roiti Sylva, Here Tama Nui and countless others that Scott was able to interview and gather information.

The Tau Rima exhibit will be open until April 28, 2009 at the 1st floor Bridge Gallery in the Hamilton Library. Admission is free however a $3 parking fee is required unless you have a UH parking pass.

More about this exhibit will be found shortly on our Black Pearl Designs designer blog.

Kauai Polynesian Festival 2009 canceled

Letter from the Kauai Polynesian Festival:

Aloha friends and ohana,

It is with deep sadness that we announce that the Kauai Polynesian Festival 2009 has been cancelled due to loss of funding. For nearly one decade the Festival graced Kauai and entertained locals and visitors alike, all the while preserving our Hawaiian culture. While we will miss working with the performers from all over the world, we are grateful for the many years we were able to do such honorable work on behalf of the Kamanawa Foundation.

As we will strive to resume the festival in 2010, please mark your calendars and join us in the 9th Annual Kauai Polynesian Festival set for Memorial Day Weekend, May 27-30, 2010.

A hui hou (until we meet again),
Kapu Alquiza-Kinimaka
Event Organizer

2009 Heiva i Honolulu awards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SOLOIST AWARDS

AGE 4-6 TAMAHINE

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

AGE 4-6 TAMAROA

1.	Skyler Ramento of Heretama Nui

AGE 7-10 TAMAHINE

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

AGE 7-10 TAMAROA

1.	Troy Spacek of Manutahi Tahiti

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAHINE

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

AGE 11-13 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAROA

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

AGE 14-17 TAURE'ARE'A TAMAHINE

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

AGE 18-21 VAHINE

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

AGE 18-21 TANE

1.	Peter Flores of Ia Ora O Tahiti Nui

AGE 22-26 VAHINE

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

AGE 22-26 TANE

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

AGE 27-35 VAHINE

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

AGE 27-35 TANE

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

AGE 36 & ABOVE

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

AGE 36 & ABOVE

1.	Lawakua Gabriel of Manutahi Tahiti

OVERALL VAHINE

Charity Offril of Te Mana O Te Ra

OVERALL TANE

Keawe McArthur of Ma'ohi Nui

GROUP AWARDS

JR. APARIMA

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

SR. APARIMA

1.	Te Tiare Patitifa
	Keoni Manuel - Wailuku, HI

JR. AHUPUROTU

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

SR. AHUPUROTU

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

MAMA RUAU AHUPUROTU

	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

SR. DRUMMING

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

HURA AVA TAU - JUNIOR OVERALL

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

HURA TAU - SENIOR OVERALL

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

COSTUME

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

RA'ATIRA

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

PERPETUAL TROPHY - JUNIOR

	Tiare Heipua
	Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

PERPETUAL TROPHY - SENIOR

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

Manutahi Tahiti Competition

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

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

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

Countdown to Heiva i Honolulu

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

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

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

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

Groups participating include:

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

Marania Haoragi
Tahia Parker - Honolulu, HI

Mehetia Productions
Charelle Kahanuala Silva - Kaneohe, HI

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

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

Te Mau Merahi
Kepa Aricayos - Kihei, HI

Te Tiare Patitifa
Keoni Manuel - Wailuku, HI

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

Tiare Heipua
Heikapua Sabarsah - Ishikawa, Japan

Tokariga Kalokemelemele
Yuko Imai - Chikasaki, Japan

Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti headed to Las Vegas

With their newest show "Maimiti," Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti, the award-winning and acclaimed dance troupe from Tahiti, will be coming to Las Vegas this fall. Steven Silulu and Kawai Silulu of Te Ata Ura, made the announcement that the famed group will be performing two shows on Saturday, August 8, 2009 at the Clark County Library (1401 E. Flamingo Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89119). The first show will start at 4:30 pm., followed by a second performance at 7:30 pm. General seating is $40. Premier seating is $60.

In addition to the performances, workshops will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2009. For more information, purchasing tickets and details, contact Steven Silulu at (702) 686-5448 or email him at SNK@TEATAURA.COM

Kori Kori Tahiti Fete

We just received this new flyer from Ravahere Allred, producer of the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete. Dates have been set for this years event, November 14-15, 2009, and applications are now available online for downloading. The Las Vegas event is in its second year after finishing a very successful premier last November.

General admission is $10 (11 and up) and children 3-10 are $5. Tickets will also be available for purchase soon. For more information, visit the official website for details.

Heiva i Honolulu tickets on sale February 25

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

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

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

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

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

Heiva i Maui sets 2009 date

Lolita Eugenio, producer of the Heiva i Maui, just announced the dates for 2009. Event activities will take place August 15-16, 2009 in Wailuku, Maui at the War Memorial Gymnasium. The dance competition will start on Saturday (2:00-9:30 pm) and continue on Sunday (10:00 am-5:00 pm)
Tahitian crafters and vendors will be open both days from 9:00 am til pau.

Heiva i Maui features both group and solo Tahitian dance performances. Last year Te Tiare Patitifa of Wailuku, Maui under the direction of Keoni Manuel and Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands of Huntington Beach, California led by Roy Asuega and Kathy Asuega dominated the competition.

Group and solo registration, sponsorship and ticket information will be forthcoming shortly. For additional information, contact Lolita at (808) 250-0737 or email.

Tahiti Fete of San Jose canceled!

According to the Tahiti Fete of San Jose website, the 2009 event, which was recently scheduled will now not be occurring due to personal health reasons.

We have confirmed this development with Pua Tokumoto, producer of the event. We wish the best in a quick recovery.

Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete - Literary/Artistic Submissions

Letter from the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

Ia Ora Na,

Greetings everyone, with the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete underway we are looking for writers, artists, photographers, and poets to submit work for our event publication, which we have in recent years used as a way to publish work from the Polynesian community. Being published in this forum looks good on a university, grant, or fellowship application, and on query letters to other publishers. Our main goal, though, is to help nurture and display the creativity of the Polynesian spirit. It is our hope that this year, our 30th anniversary, we will have more submissions than ever before.

We encourage submissions spanning any genre, and there is no age range for contributors. Our only concern is that the work features Polynesia in some way. Attached to this e-mail are examples of works published in previous years. We have already begun soliciting submissions for this year, such as an essay from a graduate student of Art History entitled, "The Commodification of Aloha: How the Aloha Spirit is Sold to Tourists."

Please include with your submission your full name, personal picture (optional), halau association (if any) and your location. If you are submitting a photograph, include the location where you took the image. We are eager to receive work from our younger submitters, and we suggest you include your age, as it will be printed in the program, unless otherwise requested.

Deadline is March 10th, but please contact us as soon as possible of your intention to submit something so we can prepare space in the publication.

Maururu Roa,

Ka'ahele
(408) 627-9590

Pictures for the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

Letter from Becky Manandic, producer of the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

Ia Ora Na,

As you know, our 30th Anniversary Fete is upon us. For a change of pace, this year we would like all of the pictures in our annual event publication to feature dancers and fetes from the past 29 years that we've been running. So we are asking everyone to go through their photo albums and e-mail us their favorite photos of themselves and friends for possible inclusion in the program.

E-mail all pictures to Ka'ahele at kikirainaprogram@gmail.com. We encourage people to start sending in photos now, as Ka'ahele is juggling his work with the program and graduate school so available time is a factor. If by any chance you cannot send your photo as an e-mail attachment and wish to use traditional mail, feel free to contact Ka'ahele at (408) 627-9590 for further arrangements.

If you are a Halau director, please forward this e-mail to your group.

Please include the year of the fete and names of the people in the photo, as both of these details will be included in the program.

Maururu Roa, Aunty Becky
Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

30th Anniversary Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

The 30th Anniversary 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 27th from 9am – 9pm, Saturday the 28th, from 9am – 9pm and on Sunday the 29th 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 through 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 FOOD will be available throughout the event as well as authentic flower and Polynesian Craft Booths for your shopping pleasure.

TICKET INFORMATION ! ! !
www.kikiraina.com
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 $36, Child $27

For more information, Call Pacifica at 209 726-1925 between 10am and 6pm, Mon thru Sat. Advance sale tickets may be purchased through March 25th. Tickets are limited.

2009 Manutahi Solo Competition

Ia Orana and Aloha!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tahitian drum & guitar festival competition

A Tahitian drum and guitar festival competition will be held from March 27-28 at the Papeete Cultural Center under the direction of Coco Hotahota, the award-winning leader and founder of the traditional Tahitian dance group "Te Maeva".

More at Tahiti Presse

Date announced for 2009 Kori Kori Tahiti Fete

Straight off the successful launch of Tahitian dances' newest competition, Ravahere Allred, producer of the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete, recently announced the dates for 2009 - November 14-15, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The first annual event took place over Veteran's Day weekend (November 8-11, 2008) at the Del Sol High School Gymnasium. Not only was the event a showcase for soloists and groups, it also highlighted a new beauty pageant - Miss Pearls of Polynesia. Nine contestants vied for the coveted title, cash and prizes including a trip to Tahiti courtesy of Air Tahiti Nui. In the end, 18 year old Dina Here Auneau from Miami, Florida walked away with the crown. Dina, born in France, is of French and Tahitian descent.

Heu Taumoefolau, a high school sophomore living in Las Vegas claimed first runner up. She is a lead in the Tahitian dance group Tevakanui. At the accompanying soloist competition, she placed first in the 14-16 year old solo category.

Second runner up Brianna Tai, also a local Las Vegas girl, was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. She is a high school senior and plans to attend UNLV this fall.

Jazmin Siguenza of Chico, California was awarded Miss Aloha Spirit and Alexa Kubena, a local girl, came away with the Best Creation award.

An extensive resource of information about all events at the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete and the Miss Pearls of Polynesia pageant may be found at the event website.

At the group dance competition, Kei 'Alaha of Diamond Bar, California walked away with the overall group award. Additional results from the competition are also available. Photos used with permission courtesy of Kori Kori Tahiti Fete by Gregory Young.

Additional reporting at the French Polynesia periodical report from Le Depeche (translated)
Dina Here Auneau, 18 ans, élue Miss Pearl of Polynesia 2008

Hura Tahiti 2009 date change

The 2009 Tahitian dance calendar is full of events. Hura Tahiti, a major event this summer, is making an expected date adjustment. Instead of the July 4th weekend, the event is bumping up to June 19-20, 2009. Activities will take place at Hope International University in Fullerton, California.

Producer Alex Tekurio recently made the change after consulting with his staff and reviewing other scheduling activities of the organization. With a long awaited trip to Tahiti planned later for his own acclaimed dance group, Hitia O Te Ra, the summer is shaping up to be very busy.

More details about the event are due to be posted on the official Hura Tahiti website shortly. Applications are available for download and are due by March 17th. Contact them directly at (714) 537-7478 or email them at hitiaotera@aol.com for any questions.

Te Aranui O Tahiti (Tahitian Festival) & Tarena Tahiti at SFSU

Ia Orana and Greetings,

This year's Tahitian Festival, "Te Aranui O Tahiti" will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2009 at the San Francisco State University Gym.

The weekend will also host the Tarena Tahiti 2010 (Tahitian Calendar) event on Saturday, April 18, 2009. It will be fun-filled weekend full of festivities, seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Activities will take place indoors as well as outdoors, on the courtyard and lawn with Polynesian artisans showcasing their unique and beautiful crafts.

TE ARANUI O TAHITI (Route to Tahiti)- www.myspace.com/tearanuiotahiti
This is the 3rd year for Te Aranui and for those not familiar with the event it is a day full of group exhibitions (not a competition). Each blocked presention features a minimum of 2 groups each with a 30-minute program. It is also an incentive fundraiser for groups (directors of each group will receive the details). This unique event allows the audience to view and select the group of their choice rather than buying a ticket for the entire day. Specific entry/tickets will be alloted for the blocked presentations for a $10 general admission fee. Consider it as if you were watching a movie and you decide which one you want to view. After each presentation, the gym will be cleared and preparation will be in order for the next program. The only criteria is for the entire program to be Tahitian dance and music.

TARENA TAHITI (Tahitian Calendar)-www.tarenatahiti.com
Tarena Tahiti is the Tahitian Calendar. It is a costume and solo dance competition. This year it will take place on Saturday, April 18th at the San Francisco State University Gym. Details can be viewed at www.tarenatahiti.com and any inquiries can be directed to info@tarenatahiti.com. Updated forms will be posted soon for 2010 calendar along with rules and instructions.

Event schedule and program will be posted/sent for those interested in participating in group exhibition and solo dance/costume competition. We invite you/group to be a participant if not watch and enjoy the many talents who share the beauty and intrigue of the Tahitian culture.

Mauruuru roa,
Elizabeth Bertumen, Producer

Hula & Tahitian Dance & Drumming Workshop

A Hula & Tahitian Dance & Drumming Workshop will be taking place Sat. & Sun., February 21 & 21, 2009. It will be featuring world class Kumu Hula, Dance and Drumming Masters.

Kumu Hula Keali'i Ceballos of Hula Halau Keali'i O Nalani and Tiana & Riki Liufau of Nonosina Polynesia, Inc. will be guest Instructors teaching their award winning choreography. Derek Keil of Teriki's Polynesia will be sharing his talents in Tahitian Drumming.

The workshop takes place at St. Charles Community College, located in Cottleville, Missouri, just 25 minutes from St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

For more information contact Dori Neumeier of Hui Hula 'O Punahele at (636) 244-1352 or e-mail her at ttimandori@sbcglobal.net.

2008 Heiva i Reno results

Results were released recently for the 2008 Heiva i Reno via their website. Activities took place once again in Reno, Nevada.

Soloist Results - Junior Division

4-6 Tamahine
1. Hailey Hernandez of Nemenzo
2. Malia Heeren of Merahi O Tehani
3. Amari-Lynn N. Brown of Te Mau Tamari'i a Tiare
4. Jazzy Bugarin of Merahi O Tehani
5. Kaili Low of Te Mau Tamari'i a Tiare

7-9 Tamahine
1. Lorie Anne Pamatmat of Da Island Way
2. Katie Cheung of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Leilani Sabit of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
4. Daylena Principe of Da Island Way
5. Keoni Gavieres of Da Island Way
6. Jennifer Matstumoto of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani

7-9 Tamaroa
1. Jason Wong of 'Ote'a 'Api
2. Noah DeJesus of 'Ote'a 'Api
3. Jaedyn Kalani Foronda of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani

10-12 Tamahine
1. Katie Edralin of Te Orama
2. Sabrina Martinez of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Avangeline Balingit of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
4. Jessica Briones of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
5. Aaliyah Rodriguez of Da Island Way
6. Destyn Hernandez-Bravo of Te Mau Tamari'i a Tiare

10-12 Tamaroa
1. Kyle DeJesus of 'Ote'a 'Api
2. Kolton Ready of 'Ote'a 'Api
3. Brandon Moore of Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua
4. Dean Trias of Te Mau Tamari'i a Tiare


Soloist Results - Senior Division

13-15 Vahine
1. Kalei Tanaka of Teoraroa 'Ote'a
2. Heiti Schofield of Teoraroa 'Ote'a
3. Kapua Tanaka of Teoraroa 'Ote'a
4. Alexandra Mariano of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
5. Janae Protheroe of Da Island Way
6. Ashton Beltrami of Te Orama

13-15 Tane
1. Anthony Petersen of Nemenzo
2. Trevor Manaois of 'Ote'a 'Api
3. Joshua Garcia of Nemenzo
4. Anthony Moore of Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua

16-18 Vahine
1. Angelique Bannag of Nemenzo
2. Kristine Sanchez of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Anita Jimenez of Da Island Way
4. Christina Salazar of Da Island Way
5. Malia Goossens of Te Mau Tamari'i a Tiare
6. Juliette Manaois of 'Ote'a 'Api

16-18 Tane
1. Francisco Cano of Hui Tama Nui
2. Tallon Pedregosa of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
3. Logan Lazaro of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
4. Djaron Viray of Nemenzo
5. Ryan Samm of Nemenzo

19-24 Vahine
1. Michelle Baker of Nemenzo
2. Shanna Pineda of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Jacqueline Garcia of Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua
4. Justine Yee of Da Island Way
5. Karin Carido of Te Poe Rava
6. Grace Siador of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani

19-24 Tane
1. Justin Atangan of Nemenzo
2. Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo
3. Rio Lazaro of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani

25 and Up Vahine
1. Evlyn Bustamante of Da Island Way
2. Jessica Acosta of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Desiree Woodward-Lee of Nemenzo
4. Rhea Nunez of Makamae Melia 'O Polynesia
5. berenice Costales of Kawaikini
6. Anuenue Mose of Lumana'i O Polynesia

25 and Up Tane
1. Charlie Curammeng of 'Ote'a 'Api
2. Joseph Saligao of Te Pura O te Rahura'a
3. Don Jose of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani


Overall Awards

Junior Division - Tamahine
Lori Anne Pamatmat of Da Island Way

Junior Division - Tamaroa
Kyle DeJesus of 'Ote'a 'Api

Senior Division - Vahine
Evlyn Bustamante of Da Island Way

Senior Division - Tane
Charlie Curammeng of 'Ote'a 'Api


Group Awards

Mehara Music Award
Te Orama - Directed by Malu Rivera-Peoples

Mehara Costume Award
Nemenzo - Directed by Elizabeth Bertumen

Mehara Ra'atira Award
Nemenzo - Directed by Elizabeth Bertumen

Mehara Couples Award
1. Nemenzo - Directed by Elizabeth Bertumen
2. Te Orama - Directed by Malu Rivera-Peoples
3. Kawaikini - Directed by Yvonne Trujillo

Mehara Pauline Dexter Award
Nemenzo - Directed by Elizabeth Bertumen

Heiva i Kauai 2009 announced

The Heiva i Kauai committee, led by Tepairu and Jo Manea have announced the dates for next years' event - August 1-2, 2009. Activities will once again take place at the Kapa'a Beach Park in Kauai, Hawaii. Now in its 8th year, Heiva i Kauai Ia Orana Tahiti continues to have participants join in the fun of perpetuating the art and joy of Tahitian dance and drumming.

"Heiva i Kauai is a family-centered community non-profit Tahitian cultural event produced annually by volunteers, with assistance from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the County of Kauai Product Enrichment Program. All admission gate and vendor booth proceeds received each year are used to produce the following year’s event. The program includes exciting Tahitian solo competition for tane and vahine dancers from age 4 to tupuna, as well as group competition and exhibition for otea, aparima, ahuroa and drumming. Tahitian dance and drumming workshops occur throughout the weekend."

Competition applications and additional information about the event is available at the event website. The organizers are excited about the interest they are getting from groups. Contact them for assistance in organizing for group accommodations and travel. More information to come.

Heiva i Honolulu 2009

Tahiti Nui International just updated their website with information, applications and updates for their March 12-14, 2009 Heiva i Honolulu event at the Waikiki Shell. The Waikiki event is the first US event next year. Currently there are 23 major Tahitian dance events scheduled for 2009 throughout the US, Tahiti, Japan and Mexico. In addition to the dance competition, plans are underway for workshops and cultural exhibits and exhibition performances. Book your reservations early and get ready for a great year for Tahitian dance.

Visit the Tahiti Nui International website for all the latest information.

Ori Tahiti Master Course

The 1st Tahitian Dance Academy "Ori Tahiti Master Course" will be held throughout the month of March 2009 by the "Conservatoire artistique de la Polynésie-Française", presented by the Ministry of Culture of French Polynesia.

The Tahitian dancing "Master Course" allows dancers to go through different stages from beginner to advanced. Dancers will not only be immersed in the "Ori Tahiti" experience, but will also learn the meaning of the Polynesian songs and the different rhythms created with Polynesian instruments.

From March 30-April 3, 2009 dancers will participate in dance practices and lessons, and ukulele, drumming and singing practices. The intensive course will introduce and hone the finer points of the art of Tahitian dance.

Class size is limited to 60 so the sooner you sign up the better. Dancers need to be 16 years old or above. Applications are available online and need to be submitted by the end of February. Course fee is 40,000 cfp (approx. $450 USD) per person. Application fee is 3,000 cfp (approx. $33 USD). Payments are required through bank transfers and account information may be found on the website.

Travel packages including airfare, hotel accommodations and transportation to and from the airport are available. Departure cities include Los Angeles and Honolulu in the US, Paris (France) and Auckland (New Zealand). Air transportation is being provided by Air Tahiti Nui. Accommodations are being provided by the Sheraton Hotel Tahiti. For all other departure cities, refer to your preferred Tahiti destination specialist.

Air Tahiti Nui and the Sheraton Hotel Tahiti are official sponsors along with Tahiti Tourisme and the government of French Polynesia.

And if you are not able to attend the first event, preparations are well under way for the 2nd "Ori Tahiti Master Course" set to take place October 26-30, 2009. Visit the official website for updates and more information.

Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas 2009

Tahitian dance, or Ori Tahiti, will again be highlighted on Memorial Day weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada. KP and Tetua Ioane, producers of the Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas, have just confirmed the dates and location for their annual event now in its 7th year. Once again UNLV's Cox Pavilion will host activities on Sunday and Monday, May 24-25, 2009.

The event includes both solo and group competitions. More details and information will be forthcoming on their official website.

Tahitian dance heads to the Big Apple for parade

by Alma Damo

Our non-profit Tahitian Dance Group, MANUTAHI, is elated to announce that over 30 members of our ohana consisting of our tamarii, their mothers or aunties, our teenagers and our vahine, is headed to the BIg Apple to represent Hawaii in the 2008 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Throughout the year, our dancers have been working diligently and spent countless hours making their own costumes and learning the choreography to the Tahitian Dance portion of the routine. Training for the dance has been extra excruciating, as the dancers practiced with their heavy more' skirts to ensure that they would be able to handle the 3 mile walk in full costume, and in freezing temperatures.

Jon Riggle, Director of the Polynesian Dance Ensemble of Hawaii, brought together both Hula and Tahitian dancers from all over the state of Hawaii, to spread the Aloha and Polynesian culture to the rest of the nation through the televised syndication of the timeless and traditiona l Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

More at the Honolulu Advertiser

Tahitian Dance - Heiva Calendar Shake Up

The 2009 Tahitian dance calendar is active and full of changes. Changes starts from the switch of the Heiva i Honolulu from 2010 to 2009. The move pushes the International Heiva i Tahiti back to 2010 and was recently confirmed by Raymond Mariteragi of Tahiti Nui International (TNI), producer of both events. Next years' event dates are March 12-14, 2009. In addition, the third TNI event, Heiva i Japan, is also moving dates. The Japan event is pushing the dates back a month to September 13, 2009.

More changes have been announced by Elizabeth Bertumen, producer of Tarena Tahiti. Not only is the event moving locations, it is also changing dates. In fact the event is moving to become a complimentary event to Te Aranui O Tahiti, the other event produced by Elizabeth Bertumen. Both events will take place at San Francisco State University, April 25-26, 2009. Tarena Tahiti is a competitive soloist competition and the Te Aranui O Tahiti event is a non competitive group event.

The July 4th weekend is also seeing a shake up as well. Hura Tahiti (Cerritos, CA), traditionally towards the end of July, is moving up to July 3-4, 2009. Event organizer, Alex Tekurio, moved the event up to accommodate other events that place him and his organization in Tahiti for the largest heiva - Heiva i Tahiti. The Tahiti Fete of San Jose is also making a change from recent years. Pua Tokumoto, producer of the event, recently announced the change from a bi-annual schedule back to making it an annual event. So the Tahitian dance competition will again be in San Jose, July 3-5, 2009.

And as we close out the year with the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete (Las Vegas, NV), the last major event of 2008, we find that many of the events for the first half of 2009 have confirmed their dates and locations. Recent confirmations include the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete (Merced, CA), which is celebrating its 30th anniversary as the longest running Tahitian dance event outside of Tahiti. Activities will take place March 27-29, 2009. That same weekend, Tamarii Tahiti Fete is scheduled to take place in Orlando, Florida. Applications and other information for the March 28, 2009 event will be available shortly from their website.

For the latest developments, updates and news, check back often or sign up for the Heiva-Tahiti Fete RSS newsfeed (see top of page for subscribe link). And for a list of all events, check out our Tahiti Dance Event Calendar on our website, Black Pearl Designs.

Black Pearl Designs, established in 2004, features exclusive Tahitian pareo designs and fabric, black pearl jewelry, handicrafts, monoi oil, temporary tattoos and unique accessories not only from French Polynesia, but also hidden and hard-to-find hand crafted items from Maori-Aotearoa, Fiji, Samoa and Hawaii.

2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete

Eric Morales, one of the organizers of the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete, recently advised us of news concerning the upcoming 30th anniversary event. Event preparations are in full swing. A special rate for nearby hotels is also in the works and details will be announced shortly.

"In addition, since this is the 30th anniversary event, we encourage people to e-mail us photos they may have taken of friends and family during any of the past Kiki Raina Fetes. These photos will be included in our program."

"Also, this year our fete would like to promote Polynesian Culture in a new fashion as we continue expanding our event program to publish artwork, poetry, essays, and/or short fiction that highlights Polynesia in any way, shape, or form. People may write about their experiences in creating their halau, about joining a specific halau, about what Polynesian culture means to them, about events in their lives that showcase the Aloha Spirit, or they can simply tell a story that relates to Polynesia in some way. Another interesting venue to take would be to write about a specific folktale or legend about the Polynesian Islands that they would like to share with the 2,000 people attending the event. Because folktales and legends are impossible to attribute to a single author and are by nature inconstant, it is possible to rewrite and/or illustrate them without infringing on any copyrights."

"All accepted work will be published with Limited Rights. This means that any work that makes it into our program will remain the intellectual property of the writer/artist."

"All written work will be edited by a PhD student in Folklore from Indiana Bloomington University - the premiere folklore institute in the nation. Valuable insights into story structure and sentence diagramming will be provided."

"Those who have their work published will receive a free program featuring their entry as well as a certificate from the Kiki Raina Event."

"This is an excellent opportunity for aspiring writers/artists to begin to have their work reviewed and published, which looks great on university applications, in portfolios, and on query letters to future publishers. Most importantly though, this is a way to keep the Polynesian Culture alive and thriving."

The 2009 event will take place March 27-29, 2009 and will again take place at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Advance purchase tickets are available - 3 Day Pass (advanced sale only - Adult $35, Child $25; Children (5-12) $10; Adult (13 and up) $15. Tickets available at the door - Children (5-12) $12, Adult (13 and up) $17. Advance tickets will be available up until March 23, 2009. Tickets are limited.

For more information, contact the event organizer, Becky Manandic, call Pacifica at (209) 726-1925 or visit their website at www.kikiraina.com.