Dedicated to presenting news, information, photos and resources for events hosting Tahitian Dance & Culture throughout the world.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
New location for Fano Maohi Heiva in Salt Lake City
A new location has been announced for the Fano Maohi Tahitian dance competition. Due to scheduling conflicts the event has been moved to Central High School (501 East 3900 South, Salt Lake City). Event organizers are working to adjust to the new location and are advising dance groups and ticket holders of the change in venue. Last year's event was at the Salt Lake Community College. Look for more information on this event as it becomes available.
A few photos of the 125th Heiva I Tahiti
Here's some photos we've been able to locate about the 125th Heiva I Tahiti. The Heiva dance competition is taking place in Papeete at Place To'ata throughout July. The annual event is the most important and largest Tahitian cultural event in the world.Flickr Gallery
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Heiva I Tahiti photos and news
The Heiva I Tahiti is in full swing. Tahiti Presse has a collection of photos that show some of the highlights including performances from Rapa Nui, the Society Islands, Tuamotus and other outer islands.
Here is a translated version of the reporting and link to the photos.
Here is a translated version of the reporting and link to the photos.
Monday, July 09, 2007
What are the Tahiti Fete and Heiva judges looking for? Part I
What are the judges looking for in a Tahiti Fete performance? With many of the competitions happening now or in the next month or so, this is a question that dancers and dance groups might be thinking about right about now.
There are the basics and then there are details that can make the difference in being awarded a placement and impressing not only the judges but also the crowd or performing without heart. We look at it this way - if you've been able to learn a new move, perfect a motion, created a new choreographed selection, learned a new Tahitian word or song, bent a little lower while doing the tamure, paoti or other basic steps, then you've helped to perpetuate and make each Tahitian dance event that more better. After all, if there weren't any groups to perform, there wouldn't be any events.
That being said, here's a reminder for all those Ori Tahiti dancers out there about what the judges are typically looking for in a performance:
1. The Entrance: The initial appearance of the dancer(s) on the performance area and the first impression created as the performer(s) begin the presentation. Basically, your performance begins before your performance. Watch your posture. If confidence can be shared among the group and shown to the judges, you're half way there in impressing them. The entrance should say to the judges that you are there to win, have fun and enjoy the opportunity to perform.
2. Personal Appearance: The physical presentation of the performer(s) including grooming and cleanliness. Make-up, if used, should only be applied to subtly enhance the natural beauty of the dancer(s). Basically, if you show up with a make-over from MAC complete with glittery lipstick and make-up that just won't quit, you might want to reconsider toning it down a bit. If you show up with costumes that don't match or are worn in an array of unrelated styles, you should look into making things match or complement each other.
3. Costume: The completeness of the the attire worn by the dancer(s) during the performance. Costumes are judged according to the appropriateness for the dance performed, coordination of adornments, accessories and neatness. Generally speaking, judges frown on PLASTIC materials. Think about what Tahitians used to use to adorn themselves. If you're not in the tropics, then see if you can substitute with local ferns, leaves or flowers. You can also send away for the greenery but it can get expensive. Feathers are always an option, fishing nets, dried leaves and flowers can be used in some of the most striking costumes as well. One last thing about costumes – make sure everything is secure. Judges (not to mention the stage crew) like to see that you took the care to secure your costume.
4. Feet: Position of the feet and the ease with which the dancer(s) moves relative to the choreography and styling of the dance performed. Doing the dance correctly can often mean that you are needing to put less effort into the dance than if you dance it incorrectly. With correct feet positioning you can make the dance seem naturally and right.
5. Hips: The Vahine need rotation and accented movement of the hips. If you can make it a natural skill and make it look like a natural skill, the judges look to see the ease in which you peform this basic. And remember, it impresses the judges all the more if you are in a group and all the hips move in the same direction at the same time. This is a huge undertaking when you have fast movements but if the basics are strong, you should have an easier time coordinating. For the Tane, hips should remain relatively stationary without any exaggerated movement.
6. Arms/Hands: GRACE. The position and movement of the arms and hands relative to the nature and performance of the dance. Arm motions and hand gestures should be large and punctuated by quick changes and performed with feminine grace. Also, if a movement requires large motions, always remember to... extend, just like in Hawaiian hula. For the Tane, arm and hand gestures should be strong and masculine in a performance.
7. Facial Expression: The facial conveyance and meaningful depiction of feelings, thought, mood, or sentiment relative to the performance. If you have a celebration in your dance remember that it IS a celebration. It's a story that you are telling the world.
As you can see, there are a... few things to consider when competing in a Heiva or Tahiti Fete. Look for more criteria coming next week with the second half of the pointers and suggestions.
There are the basics and then there are details that can make the difference in being awarded a placement and impressing not only the judges but also the crowd or performing without heart. We look at it this way - if you've been able to learn a new move, perfect a motion, created a new choreographed selection, learned a new Tahitian word or song, bent a little lower while doing the tamure, paoti or other basic steps, then you've helped to perpetuate and make each Tahitian dance event that more better. After all, if there weren't any groups to perform, there wouldn't be any events.
That being said, here's a reminder for all those Ori Tahiti dancers out there about what the judges are typically looking for in a performance:
1. The Entrance: The initial appearance of the dancer(s) on the performance area and the first impression created as the performer(s) begin the presentation. Basically, your performance begins before your performance. Watch your posture. If confidence can be shared among the group and shown to the judges, you're half way there in impressing them. The entrance should say to the judges that you are there to win, have fun and enjoy the opportunity to perform.
2. Personal Appearance: The physical presentation of the performer(s) including grooming and cleanliness. Make-up, if used, should only be applied to subtly enhance the natural beauty of the dancer(s). Basically, if you show up with a make-over from MAC complete with glittery lipstick and make-up that just won't quit, you might want to reconsider toning it down a bit. If you show up with costumes that don't match or are worn in an array of unrelated styles, you should look into making things match or complement each other.
3. Costume: The completeness of the the attire worn by the dancer(s) during the performance. Costumes are judged according to the appropriateness for the dance performed, coordination of adornments, accessories and neatness. Generally speaking, judges frown on PLASTIC materials. Think about what Tahitians used to use to adorn themselves. If you're not in the tropics, then see if you can substitute with local ferns, leaves or flowers. You can also send away for the greenery but it can get expensive. Feathers are always an option, fishing nets, dried leaves and flowers can be used in some of the most striking costumes as well. One last thing about costumes – make sure everything is secure. Judges (not to mention the stage crew) like to see that you took the care to secure your costume.
4. Feet: Position of the feet and the ease with which the dancer(s) moves relative to the choreography and styling of the dance performed. Doing the dance correctly can often mean that you are needing to put less effort into the dance than if you dance it incorrectly. With correct feet positioning you can make the dance seem naturally and right.
5. Hips: The Vahine need rotation and accented movement of the hips. If you can make it a natural skill and make it look like a natural skill, the judges look to see the ease in which you peform this basic. And remember, it impresses the judges all the more if you are in a group and all the hips move in the same direction at the same time. This is a huge undertaking when you have fast movements but if the basics are strong, you should have an easier time coordinating. For the Tane, hips should remain relatively stationary without any exaggerated movement.
6. Arms/Hands: GRACE. The position and movement of the arms and hands relative to the nature and performance of the dance. Arm motions and hand gestures should be large and punctuated by quick changes and performed with feminine grace. Also, if a movement requires large motions, always remember to... extend, just like in Hawaiian hula. For the Tane, arm and hand gestures should be strong and masculine in a performance.
7. Facial Expression: The facial conveyance and meaningful depiction of feelings, thought, mood, or sentiment relative to the performance. If you have a celebration in your dance remember that it IS a celebration. It's a story that you are telling the world.
As you can see, there are a... few things to consider when competing in a Heiva or Tahiti Fete. Look for more criteria coming next week with the second half of the pointers and suggestions.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Hei Tiare exhibition performance
On July 21, Tiare Trompette’s troupe will close the Heiva festivities with an exclusive performance, sponsored by Hinano.400 male and female dancers, singers and musicians, a group that won two awards at the Heiva’s last edition, a troupe leader who is also among the best dancers… so many excellent reasons not to miss Hei Tahiti’s only show, which will close the Heiva with an exhibition performance on July 21.
Look for other unique and fun promotions that Hinano has put together for the worlds' largest and lavish Heiva.
Te Mahana Hiro'a O Tahiti
The Polynesian Cultural Center's seventh annual Te Mahana Hiro'a O Tahiti — Tahitian Culture Days festival, will be held:Friday, July 6th, 7:30 pm in the Hale Aloha luau theater
Saturday, July 7th, 9:00 am in the Pacific Theater
PCC's Director of Islands and Tahitian event coordinator Raymond Mariteragi said the 2007 Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti dance competition will feature approximately 80 children in the only major event that focuses exclusively on young dancers, ages 3–18. "Many of these kids, some who come from the mainland U.S. and Hawaii's neighbor islands, wouldn't otherwise have a chance to compete. Most other heiva or performance competitions focus on adults."
Mariteragi added that last year's judge, Moanaura Teheiura — a well-known choreographer with the premier dance group O Tahiti E, a Heiva Tahiti judge, and a professor of Tahitian language at the university in Tahiti — will return this year as the chief judge for PCC's event. "Plus we'll have three or four local judges," he said.
Moanaura Teheiura, chief judge of the 2006 and 2007 competition, was also impressed with last year's performances. "That was my first time to this event, and the participants were great. As he addressed the crowd, he thanked all participants for paying "tribute to our great culture."
Mariteragi also announced that this year's competition — which has featured only solo dancers for several years — will include group competition on Saturday morning.
"The quality of dancing this year will probably be the best we've ever had," said Mariteragi. "All of these kids start learning at a very early age, so we expect the level of competition will be very high."
He also explained the solo competition consists of two major divisions: Tamari'i (ages 2-11) and Taure'are'a (ages 12-18). Tamari'i dancers are further divided into 0-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 and 9-11 categories; and the Taure'are'a into 12-13, 14-15 and 16-18 categories. The Group Mixed Otea competition is divided into ages 1-11 and 12-18 segments. Prizes will be awarded for each segment, as well as overall winners for each division.
"The sounds of the drums, together with the motions make Tahitian dancing very exciting," Mariteragi continued. "When your watching and hearing the beat, it's hard to just sit there without moving something — at least your hands or your feet."
He added that the PCC's Tahitian Islands will also present special cultural activities during the annual fête, including fruit carrying races (where the young men carry baskets of fruit on a pole across their shoulders), and fishing and spear throwing contests.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Heiva I Tahiti begins today
Tahiti Presse
The 125th Heiva I Tahiti, or Tahiti Festival, the biggest celebration of the year throughout Tahiti and Her Islands, opens on Friday and continues through July 21, offering a nearly month-long program of traditional, cultural and entertaining events.
Some 30 traditional dancing and singing groups will compete this year in competition that will be held nightly from July 1-July 8 at Place To'ata in downtown Papeete. All performances will be held from 7-11 pm.
After seven nights of competition there will be an awards ceremony on the night of July 19 and a special dance show orchestrated by Coco Hotahota entitled "Once upon a time . . . "
A special evening featuring all of this year's winning groups will be held the next night, July 20, from 7-10:30 pm.
A camera show presenting many of the competing groups will be held on July 21 at the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, where there also will be a demonstration of traditional Tahitian sports.
The ticket prices for the first seven nights of dancing and singing competition from July 1-8 are 2,500 French Pacific francs (US$29/€21), 1,500 francs (US$17/€13) and 1,000 francs (US$12/€8). Ticket prices for the July 20 performance by this year's winning groups are 3,000 French Pacific francs (US$35/€25), 2,500 francs and 1,500 francs. Tickets for the camera show on July 21 cost 2,000 French Pacific francs (US$23/€17).
Another one of the most popular Tahiti Festival events is always the outrigger canoe racing in Papeete Harbor. There will be two days of races this year, starting at 8 am each day. There will be races of three- and six-paddler canoes on June 29 and one- and 16-paddler canoes on June 30.
There also will be two days of outrigger canoe ocean racing. A race for junior men will start at 9 am on July 6 from Papeete, going to the Tahara'a Point and returning to Papeete. A race for senior women will start at 1 pm the same day and cover the same course.
The next day, July 7, outrigger canoes will leave in front of Place To'ata at 8 am and paddle to Moorea and back.
Other Tahiti Festival events include:
A regatta of sailing outrigger canoes from 10 am to 4 pm at Venus Point on July 6 and July 7;
At the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, stone-lifting competition for women, a fruit carriers' race for women and individual javelin-throwing on July 14 from 1-4:30 pm; stone-lifting for men, a fruit carriers' race for men and javelin-throwing by teams on July 15 from 4:30 pm;
Javelin-throwing, stone-lifting for all categories and copra preparation contests for men and women individuals and teams on July 17 at the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands from 4:30-8:30 pm.
The 125th Heiva I Tahiti, or Tahiti Festival, the biggest celebration of the year throughout Tahiti and Her Islands, opens on Friday and continues through July 21, offering a nearly month-long program of traditional, cultural and entertaining events.
Some 30 traditional dancing and singing groups will compete this year in competition that will be held nightly from July 1-July 8 at Place To'ata in downtown Papeete. All performances will be held from 7-11 pm.
After seven nights of competition there will be an awards ceremony on the night of July 19 and a special dance show orchestrated by Coco Hotahota entitled "Once upon a time . . . "
A special evening featuring all of this year's winning groups will be held the next night, July 20, from 7-10:30 pm.
A camera show presenting many of the competing groups will be held on July 21 at the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, where there also will be a demonstration of traditional Tahitian sports.
The ticket prices for the first seven nights of dancing and singing competition from July 1-8 are 2,500 French Pacific francs (US$29/€21), 1,500 francs (US$17/€13) and 1,000 francs (US$12/€8). Ticket prices for the July 20 performance by this year's winning groups are 3,000 French Pacific francs (US$35/€25), 2,500 francs and 1,500 francs. Tickets for the camera show on July 21 cost 2,000 French Pacific francs (US$23/€17).
Another one of the most popular Tahiti Festival events is always the outrigger canoe racing in Papeete Harbor. There will be two days of races this year, starting at 8 am each day. There will be races of three- and six-paddler canoes on June 29 and one- and 16-paddler canoes on June 30.
There also will be two days of outrigger canoe ocean racing. A race for junior men will start at 9 am on July 6 from Papeete, going to the Tahara'a Point and returning to Papeete. A race for senior women will start at 1 pm the same day and cover the same course.
The next day, July 7, outrigger canoes will leave in front of Place To'ata at 8 am and paddle to Moorea and back.
Other Tahiti Festival events include:
A regatta of sailing outrigger canoes from 10 am to 4 pm at Venus Point on July 6 and July 7;
At the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, stone-lifting competition for women, a fruit carriers' race for women and individual javelin-throwing on July 14 from 1-4:30 pm; stone-lifting for men, a fruit carriers' race for men and javelin-throwing by teams on July 15 from 4:30 pm;
Javelin-throwing, stone-lifting for all categories and copra preparation contests for men and women individuals and teams on July 17 at the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands from 4:30-8:30 pm.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Heiva i Maui
Mark your calendars, August 10-12, 2007, is set to showcase some of the best Tahitian dancers in the Pacific. The Heiva i Maui is set to take place in Wailuku, Maui.
Non-profit organizer and director Lolita Eugenio promises an unforgettable event. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Heiva i Maui has grown into a highlight of Maui's cultural events. If you are interested in entering your dance group or would like to volunteer, contact Lolita for more information.
Here is a calendar of events:
Jun 29 2007
Group Applications Are Due - NO EXCEPTIONS
Fact Sheets are due for ALL GROUP PARTICIPANTS
Please make 6 copies of each
Jul 27 2007
Soloist & Mr. & Miss Heiva Applications are due
NO LATE ENTRIES ALLOWED
Photo/Video/Model Release Forms are due
Aug 9 2007
Monies for Halau tickets and Participant passes are due
Aug 10 2007
10th Annual Heiva i Maui begins
Tribute to Tavana & Mr. & Miss Heiva
Aug 11 2007
Solo & Group Competitions
Aug 12 2007
Group Competitions & Awards Ceremony
Non-profit organizer and director Lolita Eugenio promises an unforgettable event. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Heiva i Maui has grown into a highlight of Maui's cultural events. If you are interested in entering your dance group or would like to volunteer, contact Lolita for more information.
Here is a calendar of events:
Jun 29 2007
Group Applications Are Due - NO EXCEPTIONS
Fact Sheets are due for ALL GROUP PARTICIPANTS
Please make 6 copies of each
Jul 27 2007
Soloist & Mr. & Miss Heiva Applications are due
NO LATE ENTRIES ALLOWED
Photo/Video/Model Release Forms are due
Aug 9 2007
Monies for Halau tickets and Participant passes are due
Aug 10 2007
10th Annual Heiva i Maui begins
Tribute to Tavana & Mr. & Miss Heiva
Aug 11 2007
Solo & Group Competitions
Aug 12 2007
Group Competitions & Awards Ceremony
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Heiva - Tahiti Fete Updates
Heiva for later this year and 2008 are shaping up. The Fete in Orlando, Florida - Tamarii Tahiti Fete has updated their website and announced the 2008 event date. Reserve April 2, 2008. The event is expanding to include all ages. What better excuse to hit Walt Disney World than to take your group to the event. Contact Evelyn or Isitolo Oloa for more information. They have also updated their gallery and added 2008 entry forms.
Back over in Hawaii, the Manutahi Tahiti event has moved location to Maui. More details to be announced shortly.
The next Heiva this year will be at Cerritos, California – The Hura Tahiti Tahitian Dance Competition. The event will take place July 13-14. The Tahitian dance workshop features Roiti Tahauri Sylva and Coco Hotahota, grand master of Tahitian dance. Drumming workshops feature Alex Tekurio. See their website for more details.
Back over in Hawaii, the Manutahi Tahiti event has moved location to Maui. More details to be announced shortly.
The next Heiva this year will be at Cerritos, California – The Hura Tahiti Tahitian Dance Competition. The event will take place July 13-14. The Tahitian dance workshop features Roiti Tahauri Sylva and Coco Hotahota, grand master of Tahitian dance. Drumming workshops feature Alex Tekurio. See their website for more details.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Kauai & Las Vegas Tahitian Dance Competitions
Ia Orana and the pulsating drums of Tahiti could be heard across the oceans and in the desert. Not one, but two Tahitian dance competitions occurred this past holiday weekend. In Kauai, the 7th Annual Kauai Polynesian Festival took the island by storm. Even the crafters got involved as evident from a news article in the local paper, Kauai - The Garden Island. The event is organized by the Kamanawa Foundation, and is led by Kapu Kinimaka-Alquiza, Kumu hula of Halau Na Hula o Kaohikukapulani. Activities took place on the grounds of the Hilton Kauai Beach Resort.
On the mainland, in Las Vegas, Nevada, a second Tahitian dance competition brought crowd pleasing performances to the Cox Pavilion at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV). Photos of the solo, aparima, otea and ahuroa competitions can be found here.
On the mainland, in Las Vegas, Nevada, a second Tahitian dance competition brought crowd pleasing performances to the Cox Pavilion at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV). Photos of the solo, aparima, otea and ahuroa competitions can be found here.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Dance groups announced for 2007 Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas
Dance groups participating in the 2007 Tahiti Taurua Nui i Las Vegas announced. The event will take place May 26-27 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas.
Apatoerau (Seattle, WA)
Fano Maohi (Salt Lake City, UT)
Ha'awi (Modesto, CA)
Halau 'O Na Ali'i (San Diego, CA)
Ho'okupu 'O Hawaii
Hula Halau I Ka Wa I Hala
Kaimikahu Hale O' Hula (Scottsdale, AZ)
Kaleo Onalani (San Diego, CA)
Keiki O' Mokiao (Las Vegas, NV)
Lei Oleander Dancers
LeiIsa (San Diego, CA)
Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands (Huntington Beach, CA)
Mai Polynesia (Fountain Valley, CA)
Marama Te Mafatu Nui (San Bruno, CA)
Merahi O Tehani (Union City, CA)
Na Kamalii O ke Akua
Na Pua Ilima 'O Kehaulani (Chula Vista, CA)
Ninth Island Productions (Las Vegas, NV)
No Te Here Ote Hiroa (Fresno, CA)
Polynesian Paradise (Santa Fe Springs, CA)
Polynesian Rhythms
Puahi's Polynesian Dancers (Temecula, CA)
Tago Le Pasefika
Tamali'i (Hayward, CA)
Te Fare O Tamatoa
Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua (Merced, CA)
Te Pura O Te Rahuraa (Pacifica, CA)
Te Tiare Patitifa (Lahaina, HI)
Tevakanui (Las Vegas, NV)
Please be aware that this list is tentative and subject to change.
Apatoerau (Seattle, WA)
Fano Maohi (Salt Lake City, UT)
Ha'awi (Modesto, CA)
Halau 'O Na Ali'i (San Diego, CA)
Ho'okupu 'O Hawaii
Hula Halau I Ka Wa I Hala
Kaimikahu Hale O' Hula (Scottsdale, AZ)
Kaleo Onalani (San Diego, CA)
Keiki O' Mokiao (Las Vegas, NV)
Lei Oleander Dancers
LeiIsa (San Diego, CA)
Lokelani's Rhythm of the Islands (Huntington Beach, CA)
Mai Polynesia (Fountain Valley, CA)
Marama Te Mafatu Nui (San Bruno, CA)
Merahi O Tehani (Union City, CA)
Na Kamalii O ke Akua
Na Pua Ilima 'O Kehaulani (Chula Vista, CA)
Ninth Island Productions (Las Vegas, NV)
No Te Here Ote Hiroa (Fresno, CA)
Polynesian Paradise (Santa Fe Springs, CA)
Polynesian Rhythms
Puahi's Polynesian Dancers (Temecula, CA)
Tago Le Pasefika
Tamali'i (Hayward, CA)
Te Fare O Tamatoa
Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua (Merced, CA)
Te Pura O Te Rahuraa (Pacifica, CA)
Te Tiare Patitifa (Lahaina, HI)
Tevakanui (Las Vegas, NV)
Please be aware that this list is tentative and subject to change.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Tahitian Headdresses
More and more, we get requests for headdresses and accessories for the hair and jewelry. We have a collection that is growing all the time at Black Pearl Designs. But sometimes we just can't make or get enough material, shells, feathers, or notions. After all, we are working with Tahitian artisans who create most pieces by hand.
That's when we start searching again. And we found a great customizing website - OneofDaKine.com* that offers one-of-a-kind Tahitian headdresses. From the look of it, it seems to all be hand done. So if you are looking for a special headdress or have an idea for a costume, you might want to check this website out. Thanks to Julie Bugarin, director of Merahi O Tehani for the resource link.
And just to let you know, we are working to provide a selection of headdress styles and a lighter weight Tahitian skirt, not to mention a new Tahitian pareo print coming later this year. We are excited to offer this and would welcome input on color and style preferences.
* We are not endorsing nor recommending this company. We offer this information as a service only.
That's when we start searching again. And we found a great customizing website - OneofDaKine.com* that offers one-of-a-kind Tahitian headdresses. From the look of it, it seems to all be hand done. So if you are looking for a special headdress or have an idea for a costume, you might want to check this website out. Thanks to Julie Bugarin, director of Merahi O Tehani for the resource link.
And just to let you know, we are working to provide a selection of headdress styles and a lighter weight Tahitian skirt, not to mention a new Tahitian pareo print coming later this year. We are excited to offer this and would welcome input on color and style preferences.
* We are not endorsing nor recommending this company. We offer this information as a service only.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Heiva I Tahiti
At Black Pearl Designs, there's not much more requested than a glimpse of the Tahitian dance performed in its islands of origin. Many dancers have asked if we have DVD's of the competitions. Unfortunately we don't have them... yet. We were however advised of a new service provided by the Institut de la Communication Audiovisuelle. At the site there are video clips of the 2001 Heiva I Tahiti competition. There are 21 clips on the site highlighting arguably one of Heiva I Tahiti's most vibrant and celebrated years of competition.
We've gone ahead and found a translation (into English) of the site and are providing it here for you to enjoy. It's not perfect, but you'll get the gist of it. If you look around, you'll also see that you can purchase some of the DVD videos. But be advised of the long process and possible extra customs duties that might be involved. We're working on eliminating that step for our domestic US orders and making them available on our website.
In the meantime, here's the link:
Heiva I Tahiti 2001 (English translation)
Heiva I Tahiti 2001 (original French edition)
We've gone ahead and found a translation (into English) of the site and are providing it here for you to enjoy. It's not perfect, but you'll get the gist of it. If you look around, you'll also see that you can purchase some of the DVD videos. But be advised of the long process and possible extra customs duties that might be involved. We're working on eliminating that step for our domestic US orders and making them available on our website.
In the meantime, here's the link:
Heiva I Tahiti 2001 (English translation)
Heiva I Tahiti 2001 (original French edition)
Monday, March 26, 2007
Tamari'i Tahiti Fete
Guest writers Isitolo and Evelyn Oloa,
organizers of the The Tamari'i Tahiti.
Ia Orana!
Thanks for all of the help that you have given us! The Tamari'i Tahiti Fete was very successful bringing in more competitors and spectators than the previous year. We had groups come in from North Carolina, Illinois, Pennsylvania and all across the state of Florida. The competition was tough as all of the soloists raised their standards leaving a tie for first place in the 9-12 age division and only a difference of a few points for the title of 'Overall Perpetual Soloist'. Cheyenne Sky Romanillos took home most trophies including 'Best Costume', but it was Laarni Fronda who claimed her title for the second year in a row as 'Overall Perpetual Soloist' winning with the highest amount of points. This means she can keep the O.P.S. trophy. (If you win this title you are allowed to keep it for a small period of time but it must be returned. You may only keep the trophy if you win the title two years in a row.)
Special appearances were made by the winners of all divisions of the PCC World Fire Knife Dance Championships: Rex Tiumalu (winner of the Pee Wee Division), V.J. Tiumalu (winner of the Intermediate Division), and Mikaele Oloa (2 time champion of the Senior Division and youngest competitor to ever win the title). They were also part of the house drummers.
If you need anymore information, please just let us know. We are having our web designer update the entire website. So, it will have a brand new look and updated information and photos. Thank you again for all of your help!
Maruruuru,
Isitolo and Evelyn Oloa
organizers of the The Tamari'i Tahiti.
Ia Orana!
Thanks for all of the help that you have given us! The Tamari'i Tahiti Fete was very successful bringing in more competitors and spectators than the previous year. We had groups come in from North Carolina, Illinois, Pennsylvania and all across the state of Florida. The competition was tough as all of the soloists raised their standards leaving a tie for first place in the 9-12 age division and only a difference of a few points for the title of 'Overall Perpetual Soloist'. Cheyenne Sky Romanillos took home most trophies including 'Best Costume', but it was Laarni Fronda who claimed her title for the second year in a row as 'Overall Perpetual Soloist' winning with the highest amount of points. This means she can keep the O.P.S. trophy. (If you win this title you are allowed to keep it for a small period of time but it must be returned. You may only keep the trophy if you win the title two years in a row.)
Special appearances were made by the winners of all divisions of the PCC World Fire Knife Dance Championships: Rex Tiumalu (winner of the Pee Wee Division), V.J. Tiumalu (winner of the Intermediate Division), and Mikaele Oloa (2 time champion of the Senior Division and youngest competitor to ever win the title). They were also part of the house drummers.
If you need anymore information, please just let us know. We are having our web designer update the entire website. So, it will have a brand new look and updated information and photos. Thank you again for all of your help!
Maruruuru,
Isitolo and Evelyn Oloa
Monday, March 12, 2007
Updates for Tahitian Dance Events
Looking at the coming months we're starting to see increased activity and updates on Tahitian dance event websites. One of the biggest changes is a change in date for the Heiva International I Tahiti 2007, not to mention an official name for the event. The event will be held in Papeete Tahiti, on the week of July 23-28 at the To'ata arena, home of the Heiva I Tahiti. Because of a change in government leadership, a date change was necessary to accommodate the new agenda set forth by the new administration.
Information about the event, calendar, applications and other information about getting there are available on Tahiti Nui International's website. In the past, the organizers have produced the Heiva I Honolulu. This year however, it's taken all their efforts to organize the event in Tahiti and weren't able to hold the event in Honolulu. Event organizers have announced that the event will return in 2008 to Honolulu and possibly Tahiti as well.
This week also marks the beginning of the 2007 Heiva season. With Heiva being held in not one but two venues. First off is the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete. The Merced event is the longest running event in the US. The event runs from March 16-18, 2007 and the competition will be held at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Event activities include the Maeva Merced Pageant (Mr. and Miss Maeva Merced), solo and group competition in aparima, otea and ahuroa. The event will close with exhibitions by tamari'i (children). Go to their website for ticket information and assistance.
The 2007 Tamari'i Tahiti Fete is also happening this weekend. Taking place in Orlando, Florida, this is the second year of this event. The event highlights tamari'i (children) from 3-16 years old. More information is available on their website.
Another change in schedule is the Manutahi Tahiti event in Honolulu, Hawaii. Originally scheduled for April 27-28, 2007, this event has been moved to October. More details as they become available.
Lastly, July 6-7, 2007 are the confirmed dates for the Polynesian Cultural Center's Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti competition.
Information about the event, calendar, applications and other information about getting there are available on Tahiti Nui International's website. In the past, the organizers have produced the Heiva I Honolulu. This year however, it's taken all their efforts to organize the event in Tahiti and weren't able to hold the event in Honolulu. Event organizers have announced that the event will return in 2008 to Honolulu and possibly Tahiti as well.
This week also marks the beginning of the 2007 Heiva season. With Heiva being held in not one but two venues. First off is the Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete. The Merced event is the longest running event in the US. The event runs from March 16-18, 2007 and the competition will be held at the Merced County Fairgrounds. Event activities include the Maeva Merced Pageant (Mr. and Miss Maeva Merced), solo and group competition in aparima, otea and ahuroa. The event will close with exhibitions by tamari'i (children). Go to their website for ticket information and assistance.
The 2007 Tamari'i Tahiti Fete is also happening this weekend. Taking place in Orlando, Florida, this is the second year of this event. The event highlights tamari'i (children) from 3-16 years old. More information is available on their website.
Another change in schedule is the Manutahi Tahiti event in Honolulu, Hawaii. Originally scheduled for April 27-28, 2007, this event has been moved to October. More details as they become available.
Lastly, July 6-7, 2007 are the confirmed dates for the Polynesian Cultural Center's Te Mahana Hiro'a o Tahiti competition.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
2007 Tahiti Fete and Heiva
With more and more Tahitian culture, dance and music events making their way to locations throughout the US, comes more need to let the community know of the events. We're looking to provide a service that will prove to be informative and useful. The US will see 15 events spread throughout the country this year. Many events will occur in French Polynesia and at least 2 in Japan. Many of the events are advising us of news regarding their events and we have links to their websites if available.
The Hura Tahiti event occuring in July, for instance, has advised us of new information for vendors and participants. Check out their website for more details. Links to all fete and heiva are listed on our website.
The Hura Tahiti event occuring in July, for instance, has advised us of new information for vendors and participants. Check out their website for more details. Links to all fete and heiva are listed on our website.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Videos of Heiva on Bora Bora
Bora Bora Heiva Videos »
These videos show the Heiva festival celebrations on Bora Bora, which take place in the village square of Vaitape. Each of the communities on Bora Bora prepares an elaborate floral float, and they are brought into the square one at a time. Each float is accompanied by the villagers of that community in traditional dress, usually singing and accompanied by the local string band. Judges award prizes for presentation. Part 1 shows the first 3 floats. Part 2 shows the fourth float, accompanied by dancers representing both traditional and modern forms of Polynesian dance.
Thanks to Christian Wilson for the information.
These videos show the Heiva festival celebrations on Bora Bora, which take place in the village square of Vaitape. Each of the communities on Bora Bora prepares an elaborate floral float, and they are brought into the square one at a time. Each float is accompanied by the villagers of that community in traditional dress, usually singing and accompanied by the local string band. Judges award prizes for presentation. Part 1 shows the first 3 floats. Part 2 shows the fourth float, accompanied by dancers representing both traditional and modern forms of Polynesian dance.
Thanks to Christian Wilson for the information.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Date announcements for Tahiti Fete of Hilo and San Jose
Tahitifete.com has announced the event dates for the Tahiti Fete of Hilo and Tahiti Fete of San Jose. Hilo will have a two-day format on October 6-7, 2007. This past October saw the event condensed into a one-day event. It's yet to be seen if this coming event will follow suite as well.
There won't be a San Jose fete for 2007. The event is planned bi-annually, occurring every other year. The 2008 Tahiti Fete of San Jose will be on July 4-7.
Both events are produced by Pua Tokumoto, out of Hilo, Hawaii. More info will be posted as it becomes available.
There won't be a San Jose fete for 2007. The event is planned bi-annually, occurring every other year. The 2008 Tahiti Fete of San Jose will be on July 4-7.
Both events are produced by Pua Tokumoto, out of Hilo, Hawaii. More info will be posted as it becomes available.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Tahitian Dance Resources
By guest writer Christian Wilson
There are many Tahitian dance resources that you can now find on the web.
In past, it was very difficult to find an expert on Tahitian dancing
and culture since most of the group leaders live in Tahiti and only
speak Tahitian or French. With the help of the internet and the
resources listed in blackpearldesigns.com, it is much easier to get
information about upcoming Tahitian festivals, workshops, groups,
costumes without having to travel to Tahiti. Many Tahitians live in
Hawaii or on the US mainland and speak English. Many have taught and
judged major Tahitian competitions and have contacts with the Tahitian
government and cultural experts.
Although Tahitian dance competitions (Heiva Tahiti) have been held in
French Polynesia for over 120 years, it has only been since the
arrival of the Hookulea in 1976 that has brought about a renaissance
of Tahitian culture, music, dance, language, tattooing and the arts.
Every year, interest in Tahitian culture continues to expand within
and outside of Tahiti, noteably in Japan, the Hawaiian Islands (Kauai,
Oahu, Maui and the Big Island‚ as well as the US mainland, Mexico,
Canada and Europe.
It is hoped that this resurgence of interest in traditional Tahitian
culture will provide locals the resources they need to help them
return to their former way of life as it once was before the arrival
of Western Civilization which brought overwhelming change to the
native cultures.
Here are some resources on the internet that may be of use:
Google Video - Tahitian Dance
YouTube - Tahitian Dance
Tattoo Traditions
There are many Tahitian dance resources that you can now find on the web.
In past, it was very difficult to find an expert on Tahitian dancing
and culture since most of the group leaders live in Tahiti and only
speak Tahitian or French. With the help of the internet and the
resources listed in blackpearldesigns.com, it is much easier to get
information about upcoming Tahitian festivals, workshops, groups,
costumes without having to travel to Tahiti. Many Tahitians live in
Hawaii or on the US mainland and speak English. Many have taught and
judged major Tahitian competitions and have contacts with the Tahitian
government and cultural experts.
Although Tahitian dance competitions (Heiva Tahiti) have been held in
French Polynesia for over 120 years, it has only been since the
arrival of the Hookulea in 1976 that has brought about a renaissance
of Tahitian culture, music, dance, language, tattooing and the arts.
Every year, interest in Tahitian culture continues to expand within
and outside of Tahiti, noteably in Japan, the Hawaiian Islands (Kauai,
Oahu, Maui and the Big Island‚ as well as the US mainland, Mexico,
Canada and Europe.
It is hoped that this resurgence of interest in traditional Tahitian
culture will provide locals the resources they need to help them
return to their former way of life as it once was before the arrival
of Western Civilization which brought overwhelming change to the
native cultures.
Here are some resources on the internet that may be of use:
Google Video - Tahitian Dance
YouTube - Tahitian Dance
Tattoo Traditions
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Heiva i Honolulu website redesign
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.
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.
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