Heiva - Tahiti Fete

Kaneohe to host 1st Annual Mehetia Fete

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:52:00 +0000

It's been almost 10 years since a Tahitian dance competition has occurred on the Windward side of Oahu. This Saturday, October 17, King Intermediate will be the site of Kaneohe's 1st Annual Mehetia Fete. The event is produced by Mehetia Productions' Charelle Silva and will feature a soloist and group competition.

Tickets are $12, 3 and up. Doors open at 2:00 pm.

Event Schedule

1:00 pm Soloists Check-In back Entrance
2:00 pm Gym and Booths open to the Public
2:30 pm Greetings & Welcome, Introduce Judges
2:45 pm SOLO COMPETITION – FINAL ROUND
Tamari‘i Division:
ages 2 - 4 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa (Exhibition)
5 - 7 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa
8 - 10 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa

Taure‘are‘a Division:
ages 11 - 13 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa
14 - 17 yrs: Tamahine & Tamaroa

Vahine/Tane Division:
ages 18 – 21 yrs: Vahine & Tane
22 – 26 yrs: Vahine & Tane
27 – 35 yrs: Vahine & Tane

Ta‘ata Pa‘ari Division:
ages 36yrs+: Vahine & Tane

3:45 pm GROUP COMPETITION
3:55 pm TAMA TOA – Tamari‘i – ‘Ote‘a Division
Tino Moe (Ra’atira pupu) – Kaneohe, HI

4:10 pm MANUTAHI – Tamari‘i – ‘Ote‘a Division
Debra Pola Teriipaia (Ra’atira pupu) – Wahiawa, HI

4:25 pm MARANIA HAORAGI PUPU ORI – Tamari‘i – ‘Ote‘a Division
Tahia Parker (Ra’atira pupu) – Honolulu, HI

4:40 pm AWARDS CEREMONY

Program ends at approximately 6:00 pm

For the most up to date information, check the official site for details.

Counting down to Heiva i Honolulu 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:13:00 +0000

In just a couple of weeks, the Heiva i Honolulu new 2010 website will be going live. Applications for vendors, dance groups and soloists will be available for the March 18-20, 2010 event at the Waikiki Shell.

Several major dance groups both in Hawaii and the mainland have indicated that they are preparing to come to next years event to compete.

Tahiti Nui International, the organizer behind the event is also looking to have a few additional exhibition performances for Polynesian groups not wanting to compete but wanting to participate in the event.

This years featured dancer is Te Mana O Te Ra's Charity Offril, who was the 2009 Overall Vahine Soloist. Details about the event will be forthcoming.

Gearing up for Kori Kori Tahiti Fete

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 06:48:00 +0000

Ravahere Allred, producer of the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete has recently released detailed information about this years event. Taking place over the November 13-15, 2009 weekend, activities include Tahitian dance workshops by Tumata Robinson, soloist and group competitions, and the Miss Pearls of Polynesia beauty pageant. Also announced is a featured show by the Anaheim, California group - Nonosina.

Activities actually begin on Thursday. Tumata Robinson, a former leader of the acclaimed group Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti and current director of her own group Tahiti Ora will be conducting the Tahitian dance workshops on Thursday and Friday. The workshops will be followed by the Miss Pearls of Polynesia beauty pageant. Last year Dina Auneau walked away with the crown at the first annual event.

Saturday will feature the soloist and group competition. The competition will conclude on Sunday. The awards ceremony will follow. In the afternoon, Nonosina will present their show and a dinner/dance will conclude the activities.

A special room rate for the event has been arranged at the Circus Circus hotel (1-800 634-3450). Just mention the group promo code B11MPP and mention Miss Pearls of Polynesia/Kori Kori Tahiti Fete for the special rate. Visit the Kori Kori Tahiti Fete website for more information, applications and contacting the producer.

The Kori Kori Tahiti Fete is the last major Tahitian dance competition of the year. It takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada. This will be the second annual event after last years premier. Additional information will be forthcoming.

TICKET INFORMATION

Kori Kori Tahiti Fete Entrance Fee: $10.00

Nonosina Show: $20.00 in advance and $25.00 at the door. $10.00 in advance for kids under 10 and $15.00 at the door.

Miss Pearls of Polynesia: $20.00 for Adults, $10.00 kids under 10

Tahitian Dance classes by TUMATA ROBINSON: $50.00 for 2 Hours session

VIP PRIVATE PARTY
Sunday Evening 15th November, 2009 8.00 pm to 11.30 pm
ALL YOU CAN EAT SUSHI and ALL YOU CAN DRINK $40.00
Dance floor and DJ. ONLY 100 TICKETS FOR SALE. Buy your tickets today!

Heiva i Kauai 2010 announced

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:10:00 +0000

Heiva i Kauai has announced tentative dates for their event next year. Again being held at Kapa'a Beach Park, activities will take place over the July 31-August 1, 2010 weekend. It will again feature solo and group competition, drumming, craft and food vendors. For more information, visit their official website. Heiva i Kauai is produced by Tepairu and Sally Jo Manea.

Heiva i Hilo canceled

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:08:00 +0000

It had a promising start but event organizer Kahealani Kapana recently announced that the first Heiva i Hilo event planned for March next year will not occur. Citing several factors, she reluctantly decided that it wasn't going to work out. The logistics, group schedules, permits and timing all contributed to the decision.

Heiva i Maui set to take the Stage

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:00:00 +0000

With summer winding down it doesn't mean that Tahitian dance is as well. Quite the opposite. This weekend, Saturday and Sunday, August 15-16, 2009, Heiva i Maui will take place at the War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku.

Event director Lolita Eugenio has organized the 12th annual event to feature local Tahitian dance and drumming groups, Polynesian crafters and local food vendors. Advance tickets are available for $10 (children 6 and under are free). Call (808) 250-0737 for more information. At the door, tickets are $15.

Results for Heiva i Kauai 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 20:56:00 +0000

Tahitian dance groups from Oahu and Kauai vied for top honors in this years Heiva i Kauai. Event activities took place at the Kapa'a Beach Park over the August 1-2, 2009 weekend. The 8th annual event is organized and produced by Tapairu & Jo Manea and Stella Miyoshi.

Overall soloist awards went to Manuel Trujillo (Overall Junior Tane), Poerava Lee (Overall Junior Vahine), Julian Maeva (Overall Senior Tane), and Lani Figaroa (Overall Senior Vahine). Awards for each age group were also awarded and are listed below.

Te 'E'a O Te Turama (Maile Lee) of Oahu, took several group awards including the Overall Group award. While Manutahi Tahiti (Pola Teriipaia) took top honors for their Ote'a presentation.

Complete results are below. For a look at past results for events, visit Tahitian Dance.

Overall Junior Tane Soloist
Manuel Trujillo of Ta'ere Tia'i

Overall Junior Vahine Soloist
Poerava Lee of Te 'E'a O Te Turama

Overall Senior Tane Soloist
Julian Maeva of Manutahi Tahiti

Overall Senior Vahine Soloist
Lani Figaroa of Ori Uviira

Age 4-6 Tamaroa
1. Qandon Josue of Te 'E'a O Te Turama

Age 4-6 Tamahine
1. Nicole Graham of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Taylor Acosta of Manutahi Tahiti
3. Jayda Candelaria - Independent

Age 7-9 Tamaroa
1. Oviri Avaeoru-Villatora of Ta'ere Tia'i

Age 7-9 Tamahine
1. Jade Anton of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Tia Takasaki of Halau Hula o Leilani
3. Sophia Rivera of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 10-12 Tamaroa
1. Manuel Trujillo of Ta'ere Tia'i
2. Tamatoa Uta of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
3. Kainoah Ferris of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 10-12 Tamahine
1. Poerava Lee of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Caramia Kricken of Te Ora Roa Otea
3. Tahra-Leo Kaui of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 13-15 Tane
1. Emmsley Drake of Rohotu
2. Zacchaus Uta of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
3. Kamuela Ferris of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 13-15 Vahine
1. Tara Teriipaia of Manutahi Tahiti
2. Kristie Pii Matias of Tamatea Nui
3. Victoria Rivera of Ilima Rivera's Hula Studio

Age 16-18 Tane
1. Kainalu Tolentino of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Ranson Lee of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 16-18 Vahine
1. Chelsea Clement of Te 'E'a O Te Turama
2. Kalei Onzuka of Maohi Nui
3. Jessy Lasala of Nonosina

Age 19-25 Tane
1. Julian Maeva of Manutahi Tahiti
2. Mikaele Oloa of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 19-25 Vahine
1. Lani Figaroa of Ori Uviira
2. Candace Laamea of Rohotu
3. Keana Camense of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 26-39 Tane
1. Nicolas Kaneakua of Ori Uviira
2. William Maycong of Kaiko Boy Entertainment
3. Mahiai Kekumu of Te 'E'a O Te Turama

Age 26-39 Vahine
1. Shannon Daliva of Ori Uviira
2. Marie Kricken of Te Ora roa Otea

Age 40+ Tane
1. Lawakua Gabriel of Manutahi Tahiti

Age 40+ Vahine
1. Anuenue Mose of Lumana'i O Polenisia

Group Awards

Overall
Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe, Oahu

Ahupurotu
1. Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe, HI
2. Ori Uviira of Kapa'a, HI

Drumming
1. Manutahi Tahiti of Wahiawa, HI
2.Tamatea Nui O Kauai of Lihue, HI

Aparima
1. Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe, HI

Otea
1. Manutahi Tahiti of Wahiawa, HI
2. Te 'E'a O Te Turama of Kaneohe HI
3. Tamatea Nui O Kauai of Lihue, HI

Las Vegas welcomes Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 19:27:00 +0000

It's not everyday that one of Tahiti's most influentially progressive and visually entertaining Tahitian dance groups comes to the mainland, but this weekend Las Vegas will host Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti in two shows at the Clark County Library Theater (1401 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119). The two shows will be tomorrow, Saturday August 8, 2009 at 4:30 and 7:30 pm. General admission tickets are $40. A limited amount of deluxe ($60) and premium seating ($100) is also available for both shows. Call (702) 686-5448 for more information. Tickets may also be purchased online at the sponsoring dance group website - Te Ata Ura.

Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti is featuring their new show "Maimiti". The group is known for their vivid costumes, complex choreography, stunning visuals, technical expertise and dramatic music.

In addition to the performances, workshops are reported to 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

Bringing a taste of Tahiti to Kauai

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 06:37:00 +0000

By Joan Conrow

The members of Tamatea Nui O Kaua'i hear the beat of Tahitian drums in their sleep and find themselves tapping the rhythms wherever they go.

The Tahitian drumming and hula group has been studying under drum-making master Tepairu Manea, and after just four months, they're ready to perform at the 8th Annual Heiva I Kauai Iorana Tahiti, an international Tahitian dance competition.

More of the story at the Honolulu Advertiser

More to come on the events of the 8th Annual Heiva i Kauai coming soon.

Horizons sets for last time

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 05:36:00 +0000

This will be somewhat of a departure from the way I've reported in the past. A little more personal being that I danced at the Polynesian Cultural Center for 5 years, two evening shows - Mana! and Horizons, the Ali'i Luau and Ancient Legends of Polynesia canoe show.

It's kind of sad to think that the Polynesian Cultural Center's evening show Horizons is no more. The last show was Thursday, July 23, 2009. Countless students have taken part in the production over the past 14 years. It was the longest running evening show in the Center's history. As one of those who took part in the opening and production run of the new show, it is bitter sweet to say the least. Looking at the final shows and comparing them to the first few years, there are many, many differences.

Actually the last few years are completely different from the past. It's as if they were actually two different shows. Many numbers were cut or replaced and dance costumes changed. I think the Hawaii, Fiji and Maori probably saw the most changes. Remember the malo's for the men in Hawaii or the bow ties (did I just say bow ties)? How about the Kava ceremony in Fiji? And the Maori section just had a different feel all together. Not that either is better, just different.

Starting the Horizons show right after the last show of Mana! The Spirit of our People was a test and challenge for the Center. I can remember Newell Dayley (the original producer) working behind the scenes with the section dance instructors. He got the whole production rolling and mapped out what needed to be done to make the transition. Differences in opinion and a cool audience response led to a quick learning curve once the show finally opened, behind schedule (as Ha-The Breathe of Life has also proven and just about every other Center production) and including countless late night rehearsals. He was caught between management and culture. The original Horizons had a dramatic take similar to Polynesian Odyssey (the only IMAX production the Center has ever produced). Dramatic lighting, smoke and water effects enhanced the action on stage sometimes leading to overshadowing the culture. The unrealistic pressure to make a spectacularly better show than Mana! probably contributed to the problems that the show had in the beginning.

The $2 million dollar start up costs for the costumes, stage modifications, new lighting and rehearsal and development were looking to be a financial money pit. With a new producer came a whole new set of costumes, music and production numbers. A new opening sequence and the dropping of the approach to the theme also took place. It was an entirely new show. Enter Horizons - Where the Sea Meets the Sky 2.0

In any event, the heart and soul of any of the shows I was involved with was the section instructors, assistants and theater managers (Delsa Moe, Raymond Mariteragi, Eti Eves, Billy Tenney and David Tiave). I can't begin to let them know how much they made the show what it was and for teaching not only the dances, but the culture. Nikki Wallace (Maori), Keith Awai (Hawaii), Vai Fa'amaligi (Samoa), Regina Pasi (Tahiti), Fasi Tovo (Tonga), and Joe Tulele (Fiji). I have missed seeing these uncles and aunties and their influence, knowledge of the culture, encouragement and discipline. Auntie Nikki and Auntie Vai have sadly since passed away. Sometimes I have a chance to catch up with Regina and Keith but there are times I miss being backstage and being in that environment. It's an experience that if you have the opportunity, you should not miss.

Flash forward 6 months later. A new producer a new approach. Tommy Taurima, a New Zealand Maori dance group producer took the reigns. Known probably most for his song - Terina, Uncle Tommy was a larger than life character, both physically and figuratively. I do not know where he is, but I suspect he is back in New Zealand. He remade the show and let the instructors do what they do best - teach and choreograph. The Horizons 2.0 production even had his signature song - Terina in the Maori section.

Sadly, Horizons marked the change from relying on the instructors behind the scenes. After the changes, the instructors were moved back to the island villages. Even though we had the theater managers and section assistants, there was something definitely missing. I'll just leave it at that.

Flash forward to 2009 - Horizons 3.0+. Is it me or does it seem that there are less dancers? Budget cutbacks (probably because of the $3 million price tag for the new show), I assume. A new generation of dancers has taken the stage. Thinking that some of these dancers are my friends kids is kind of depressing. Am I that old? After countless performances, dancers, ushers, tech crews, seamstresses, and support staff, Horizons has finally set for the last time at the Polynesian Cultural Center. I can only hope that those involved in the new show will be able to enjoy their time there as much as I did.

EPILOGUE

I couldn't close without thinking and writing about some of the memorable moments I had.

Opening night (Horizons 1.0) I hit my eyebrow while swinging my patu. At least I think it was my patu and not the guy next to me. Came backstage after the number and couldn't see because the blood was coming down over my eye.
Eating fresh hot French bread and Samoan coco back stage on cold and rainy nights.
Cast meetings
Sitting on the top of the mountain waiting to light the torches and watching the stars and talking with the guys.
Haka farewells
Dancing in the rain
Termite nights (try not to sing or open your mouth)
Listening to Lamar (MC)
Taking a break in the (air conditioned) instructors office
Forgetting that the line up switched and I was supposed to be in the Hau'ula tunnel instead of the Kahuku tunnel.
Getting haircuts backstage
Getting fingers smashed with the kala'au sticks
Getting hit by errant titi torea sticks (from 2 girls over!)
The opening water curtain and the audience oooohing and aaaahing
Double shows (I hear they haven't had them for quite awhile, but we had them often when I was there)

Heiva i Tahiti 2009 results

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 05:33:00 +0000

This years Heiva i Tahiti event was extremely competitive with both new groups and award winning veterans returning to compete. In the end, it was one of the more younger groups that prevailed. Hei Tahiti, an innovative and award winning dance group led by Tiare Trompette was crowned Heiva Nui Grand Prize. Established in 2005, the group has not competed in the event since 2006 when it was awarded the Junior Grand Prize. In addition, Hei Tahiti also was awarded Best Costume, Best Music (Heritage) and Best Solo Tane (Daniel Faatauira).

Tamariki Oparo, led by Pierrot Faraire came in second and O Tahiti E, led by Marguerite Lai rounded out the top three. Both groups have been consistent award winners and are world renown for their dramatic and creative Tahitian dance performances.

The prestigious title of Best Solo Vahine went to Manihiki Poroi of Kei Tawhiti.

In the Junior or amateur division, Hitireva claimed 1st place.

Preliminary results of the 2009 Heiva i Tahiti:

Heiva Nui - Madeleine Moua - Division
1. Hei Tahiti (Tiare Trompette)
2. Tamariki Oparo (Pierrot Faraire)
3. O Tahiti E (Marguerite Lai)

Heiva - Claire Leverd - Division
1. Hitireva (Kelaulani Chanquy)

Best Solo Tane
Daniel Faatauira of Hei Tahiti

Best Solo Vahine
Manihiki Poroi of Kei Tawhiti

Best Vegetal Costume
Tamariki Poerani (Makau Foster)

Best Costume
Hei Tahiti (Tiare Trompette)

Tarava Raromatai
Association Vaihoataua

Best Music - Heritage
Hei Tahiti (Tiare Trompette)

Best Music - Creation
Heikura Nui (Iriti Hoto)

Best Himene Ruau
Association Vaihoataua

Best Song Author
Tamarii Matai

Best Vahine Aparima
Tamariki Poerani (Makau Foster)

Best Tane Aparima
O Tahiti E (Marguerite Lai)

Best Vahine Otea
Tamariki Poerani (Makau Foster)

Best Tane Otea
Hitireva (Kelaulani Chanquy)

Best Paoa
Te Maeva (Coco Hotahota)

Best Hivinau
Kei Tawhiti (Maire Tuia)

Best Ute Arearea
Tamariki Poerani (Makau Foster)

More information and coverage at La Depeche de Tahiti

More photos of Heiva i Tahiti 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 03:03:00 +0000

Here are a few galleries from La Depeche de Tahiti of Heiva i Tahiti 2009

Group Gallery
Soloist Gallery

New Matahi Gallery

Results of the event will be available shortly.

Farereiraa 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 02:41:00 +0000

Farereiraa 2009 took place this past weekend. Soloists performed with their respective dance groups and competed for top solo honors. The event was organized by Coco Hotahota and was held after the 127th annual Heiva i Tahiti events concluded. The US and Japanese dance groups performed and participated in cultural workshops and exchanges during their stay in Tahiti.

Partial results of the soloist competition:

Junior Tane
Dane Dejes of Otea Api

Junior Vahine

Senior Tane
Justin (Froggie) Atangan of Nemenzo

Senior Vahine
Katrina Dejesis of Otea Api

More information and gallery at La Depeche de Tahiti

Photos of the International Faarereiraa in Papeete

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 21:03:00 +0000

Here is a small gallery of photos from the recent Faarereiraa in Papeete by Tahiti Presse. This event featured close to 600 dancers from The US and Japan. Soloists and groups competed in the event. The dance groups also are participating in other exhibitions throughout the islands. Groups involved included Here Tama Nui (Honolulu) and Manutahi (Wahiawa), Nemenzo (Daly City), Otea Api (Fremont), Hitia O Te Ra (Garden Grove) and Mahana O Te Ra (Japan).

The event took place over this past weekend, July 18-20, 2009. And was held in following the Heiva i Tahiti competition where French Polynesia groups competed. Results of the Heiva i Tahiti will be announced this evening.

More information at Tahiti Presse

Photo Gallery of 2009 Heiva i Tahiti

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:51:00 +0000

Here is a large photo gallery of the 2009 Heiva i Tahiti by Life is Love. Photos are divided into dates and groups. All photos are copyrighted by the photographer.

Also, here is a tentative schedule for the remaining dance group performances at Place To'ata. Chanting performances are placed in between major dance performances.

Thursday, July 16
7 pm - Pereaito
9 pm - Hei Tahiti (Tiare Trompette)

Friday, July 17
7 pm - Hura Apetahi
8:30 pm - Tamarii Teahupoo
9:30 pm - Temaeva (Fabien Dinard / Coco Hotahota)

Saturday, July 18
7 pm - Kei Tawhiti (Maire Tuia)
9:30 pm - Tamariki Oparo (Makau Foster)

Thursday, July 23
Awards Ceremonies

Friday, July 24
Closing Ceremonies

International Cultural Farereiraa

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 03:20:00 +0000

Five US Tahitian dance groups and 1 from Japan will compete in the International Cultural Farereiraa (gathering) in Papeete, Tahiti. The groups competing include Nemenzo (San Francisco), Ote'a Api (Freemont), Hitia O Te Ra (Los Angeles), Here Tama Nui and Manutahi (Hawaii). Mahana O Te Ra is coming from Japan. Events will take place July 18-20 at Place To'ata.

Te Fare Tauhiti Nui and Coco Hotahota organizated the event to share the passion of Tahitian dance with foreign groups. Both soloists and groups will compete. Approximately 600 dancers are reported to be participating.

More reporting at La Depeche de Tahiti

Ahutoru Nui and O Tahiti E perform at Heiva i Tahiti

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 02:34:00 +0000

Ahutoru Nui and O Tahiti E performed on the third day (July 13) of competition in the 127th Annual Heiva i Tahiti. Performances took place at Place To'ata at the Papeete waterfront. Both groups have been grande champions of the event in past years and both showed why they earned their titles.

Anthony Tirao, ra'atira of Ahutoru Nui and Marguerite Lai & Moanaura Teheiura of O Tahiti E created their performances based on themes and stories. The large groups sported extravagant costumes and exhibited some of the most creative and vivid dance numbers sure to make judging very difficult.

More information and photos at La Depeche de Tahiti

Heiva i Tahiti 2009 begins

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 21:47:00 +0000

Tahiti's most colorful event of the year, Heiva I Tahiti, has started. This Festival, which includes among other things traditional dance contest, javelin throwing, outrigger canoe races and stone-lifting, is now in full swing.

This year some of the most prestigious Tahitian dance groups will return for the dancing and singing contest.

More at Tahiti Presse

Ninth Annual Te Mahana Hiroa O Tahiti Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:35:00 +0000

The Polynesian Cultural Center hosted their annual tamari'i dance competition, Te Mahana Hiroa O Tahiti this past weekend in Laie, Hawaii. Approximately 100 soloist dancers 18 years and younger competed in the solo event. Tamari'i (children) groups from Laie and Honolulu competed in aparima/ahuroa and otea events.

Overall soloist awards went to Amaya Joy Panajon of Pupu O Te Iti Ra and Nonosina Hawaii's Jordan Mariteragi took the top honors for the overall male dancer.

Additional reporting at the Honolulu Advertiser

Preliminary results are posted below:

Group Competition

Tamari'i Aparima/Ahupurotu
Age 3-11
1. Te Hamata

Age 12-18
1. Nonosina Hawaii
2. Te Hamata

Tamari'i Otea
Age 12-18
1. Nonosina Hawaii
2. Te Hamata
3. Marania Haoragi

Solo Competition

Overall Soloists
Vahine
Amaya Joy Panajon of Pupu O Te Iti Ra

Tane
Jordan Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii

Age 3-4 Tane
1. Shaun Niu of Te Hamata

Age 5-6 Vahine
1. Jazzylyn Samuseva of Marania Haoragi
2. Hiriei Toilolo of Te Hamata
3. Azeriah Coleman of Marania Haoragi

Age 5-6 Tane
1. Jason Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Ifalemi Lauaki of Nonosina Hawaii

Age 7-8 Vahine
1. Amaya Joy Panajon of Pupu O Te Iti Ra
2. Brielle Leiataua of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Teeya Lei of Nonosina Hawaii

Age 7-8 Tane
1. Teahu Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Mykle Keni of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Micah Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii

Age 9-11 Vahine
1. Chloe Pojas of Manutahi Tahiti
2. Kelene Tapusoa of Te Hamata
3. Shelby Tominaga of Marania Haoragi

Age 9-11 Tane
1. Jordan Mariteragi of Nonosina Hawaii
2. Teancum Kaitoku of Nonosina Hawaii
3. Ethan Magalei of Nonosina Hawaii

Age 12-13 Taure'are'a Vahine
1. Macy Panajon of Pupu O Te Iti Ra
2. Tylo Thompson of Nonosina Hawai'i
3. Sara Liva of Pupu Ote Iti Ra

Age 14-15 Taure'are'a Vahine
1. Jazmine Emerson of Nonosina Hawai'i
2. Shanelle Ramelb of Pupu O Te Iti Ra
3. Ciera Dutro of Pupu O Te Iti Ra

Age 16-18 Taure'are'a Vahine
1. Chelsea Clement of Te E'a O Te Turama
2. Kawahineha'aheo Oliver of Urahutia Productions
3. Kalei Onzuka of Maohi Nui

Heiva i Kauai craft vendor space available

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:07:00 +0000

With less than a month left until Heiva i Kauai takes place, craft vendor space is limited but there are still a few booth spaces available. The event is taking place over the weekend of August 1-2, 2009 at the Kapa'a Beach Park in Kapa'a, Kauai. Admission is $5 a day at the door. Children age 6 and under are free.

Craft vendor booths are $150 for both festival days. The price includes 2 passes, a tent, table, and bench. For more information, call 808 652-8574. This is a great opportunity for Polynesian craftsman to show their wares at an affordable price to customers who share their interests.

Heiva i Kauai is produced by Tepairu and Sally Jo Manea.

California-based Tahitian dance group will perform for Tahiti Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:15:00 +0000

Californian dance group, "Tekurio Nui", led by ra'atira Mapuhi "Tuku" Tekurio and specializing in Tahitian dance is in French Polynesia for a few days.

The dance group plans to perform several times during its stay and has a special relation with the "Ahutoru Nui" dance group from Tahiti's east coast commune of Arue.

Both dance groups will perform together for the annual Tahiti Festival.

More at Tahiti Presse

2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete results

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 05:08:00 +0000

The 2009 Merced Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete happened this past March but we just were able to update. Mauru'uru to Becky Mandanic and Eric Morales for the information and keeping us updated. Scheduled for next March will be the 31st Annual event happening from March 26-28, 2010. Watch for more information and updates as the date gets closer.

Soloist Awards

Miss Maeva
Sarah Niualiku of Tiare O Te Ao

Mr Maeva
Carlos Acosta of Te Mau Ta'ata Anuanua

Maeva Iti
Myshka Nichole Javier of Kawailehua Hula Ohana

Overall Junior Vahine
Lorie Anne Pamatmat of Da Island Way

Overall Senior Vahine
Colie Amen of Tamari'i Matairea

Overall Junior Tane
Trevor Tutera'I Manaois of Ote'a Api

Overall Senior Tane
Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo

Couples Tamure
Charlie Currameng and Crystal Nguyen of Ote'a Api

Age 10-12 Beginning Vahine
1. Toni Moreland of E Honu Iti E
2. Celine Moreland of Tamari'i Matairea
3. Kalina Ramos-Santiago of Makamae Melia O Polynesia
4. Isabel Flores of Tiare O Te Ao

Age 10-12 Beginning Tane
1. Harold Lopa of E Honu Iti E
2. Nikko Nunez of Makamae Melia O Polynesia
Alfonzo Nunez of Makamae Melia O Polynesia

Age 10-12 Advanced Vahine
1. Lorie Ann Pamartmat of Da Island Way
2. Jessica Briones of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Caramia Kricken - Independent

Age 10-12 Advanced Tane
1. Arnel Boquiren of Here Hau
2. Jeremiah Quilantang of Tamari'i Matairea
3. Jason Wong of Ote'a Api

Age 13-15 Beginning Vahine
1. Kylie Rufino of Te Ora Roa
2. Sherlyn Gallo of E Honu Iti E
3. Erica Punahele Petrowsky of LeiIsa
4. Rhiannon Smith of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a

Age 13-15 Beginning Tane
1. Lorenzo Nunez of Makamae Melia O Polynesia
2. Cory Jose of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
3. JP Corpuz of Kawailehua Hula Ohana

Age 13-15 Advanced Vahine
1. Katelyn Salvador of Te Ora Roa
2. Avangelina Balangit of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Melanee Tano of Makamae Melia O Polynesia
4. Aolani Etu of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani

Age 13-15 Advanced Tane
1. Trevor Tutera'I Manaois of Ote'a Api
2. Jojo Nunez of Makamae Melia O Polynesia
3. Xavier Guerrero of Tamari'i Matairea

Age 16-18 Beginning Vahine
1. Chelsea Hill of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
2. Christina Wood of Nemenzo
3. Jacqueline Cortez of Te Ora Roa
4. Marianne Aumenlado of Te Poe O Patitifa

Age 16-18 Beginning Tane
1. Andrew Gallo of E Honu Iti E
2. Nick Figueira of E Honu Iti E
3. Julius Corpuz of Te Ora Roa

Age 16-18 Advanced Vahine
1. Heiti Schofield of Te Ora Roa
2. Juliette Manois of Ote'a Api
3. Kaleialohaonalani Tanaka of Te Ora Roa
4. Allyssa Hernandez of Ote'a Api

Age 16-18 Advanced Tane
1. Talton Pedregosa of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
2. Duane De Jesus of Ote'a Api
3. Jerrod Menenses of Manuia Polynesia

Age 19-24 Beginning Vahine
1. Danielle Poquis of Ehulani's Ote'a
2. Maryanne Mayo of Nemenzo
3. Mary Grace Slador of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
4. Geraldine Masters of LeiIsa

Age 19-24 Beginning Tane
1. Brandon Evangelista of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
2. Olin Petere Kaleo 'Okalani Caban of Te Ohipa Pa'ari O Haruru
3. Michale Devonia of Te Ora Roa

Age 19-24 Advanced Vahine
1. Michelle Tarleton of Kawailehua Hula Ohana
2. Natalie Flores of Te Ora Roa
3. Michelle Baker of Nemenzo
4. Abigail Ventura of Kawailehua Hula Ohana

Age 19-24 Advanced Tane
1. Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo
2. Glenn Salonga of Manuia Polynesia
3. Zack Reyas Del Sol of Makamae Melia O Polynesia

Age 25-34 Beginning Vahine
1. Courtney Krupa of Da Island Way
2. Joyce Dagurnbey of Kawailehua Hula Ohana
3. Saua Case of LeiIsa
4. Athena Herrera of Makamae Melia O Polynesia

Age 25-34 Advanced Vahine
1. Colie Amen of Tamari'i Matairea
2. Karen Alumno of Da Island Way
3. Shanna Pineda of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a

Age 25-34 Advanced Tane
1. Charlie Cumrameneng of Ote'a Api
2. Dean Sivenstre of LeiIsa

Beginners Masters Vahine
1. Rose Pamatmat - Independent
2. Marilu Pho of Da Island Way
3. Corinne Brown of Da Island Way

Beginners Masters Tane
1. Don C Iose of Na Hoku Mai Kanoelani
2. Jesse Coronado of Nani Ola Dance Co.

Advanced Masters Vahine
1. Katrina Hali'imaile DeJesus of Ote'a Api
2. Mia-Mae Salgado-Cummings of Te Tahi Here
3. Selby Vota-Hermales of Da Island Way

Advanced Masters Tane
1. Anthony Manaois of Ote'a Api

Group Awards

Ahuroa
1. Ote'a Api of Fremont CA
2. Here Hau of Crockett CA
3. Te Tahi Here
4. Tiare O Te Ao of Hercules CA

Tamari'i Aparima
1. Ote'a Api of Fremont CA
2. Ehulani's Ote'a of Hayward CA
3. Tiare O Te Ao of Hercules CA

Tamari'i Ote'a
1. Ote'a Api of Fremont CA
2. Ehulani's Ote'a of Hayward CA
3. Te Tahi Here

Amateur Group - Ote'a
1. Ehulani's Ote'a of Hayward CA

Professional Group - Ote'a
1. Ote'a Api of Fremont CA

Novice Group - Ote'a
1. Nani Ola Dance Co.

Novice Group - Aparima
1. Nani Ola Dance Co.

Professional Group - Aparima
1. Ote'a Api of Fremont CA

Beginning Drumming
1. Tamari'i Matairea of Stockton CA
2. Tiare O Te Ao of Hercules CA

Advanced Drumming
1. Ote'a Api of Fremont CA
2. Te Ohipa Pa'ari O Haruru

Ori Tahiti Dance workshops with Hirohiti Tematahotoa - direct from Tahiti

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:15:00 +0000

Announcement letter from Fenty Kaliman,
director of marketing, Mahea Productions and Ka Ua Tuahine

Ia orana,

Direct from Tahiti! THREE Tahitian dance workshops with Hirohiti Tematahotoa. Learn the vibrant and exciting dance of Tahiti with Master Choreographer and Dancer Hirohiti Tematahotoa.

Former director of choreography for the acclaimed Tahitian dance company Orihere Maohi, Hiro was named King of Heiva in 2002 and was featured in the award-winning documentary Black Pearl, by Hoku Uchiyama. He has also choreographed and composed material for KaUaTuahine Polynesian Dance Company. KaUaTuahine has performed Hiro's work in California, Tahiti, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). Hiro has also served as a judge for the 2005 San Jose Tahiti Fete.

Beginning Level - Thursday, July 2, 2009, 7:00 - 10:00PM.
Learn the basics of Tahitian dance and an 'aparima and 'ote'a.

Intermediate and Advanced Level - Thursday, July 9, 2009, 7:00 - 10:00PM.
Instruction in ahuroa and 'ote'a.

Workshop Fee $75. To register for these events, please go to www.brownpapertickets.com

There is limited space available. Register early to reserve your place.

All workshops are held at 729 Heinz Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710

Notes

Please bring a pareu or sarong. All levels of experience welcomed. Drinks and refreshments will be made available for sale.

PLEASE NO RECORDING DEVICES OF ANY KIND. CD of the music will be made availabel for sale.

:) Fenty Kaliman

for The Mahea Uchiyama Center for International Dance

www.mahea.com

Phone: 1.510.845.2605

Hura Tahiti results

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 02:51:00 +0000

The 2009 Hura Tahiti Tahitian dance competition just took place this past weekend. Dance groups and soloists came from the greater California area and competed at the Hope International University in Fullerton, CA. The Southern California event is produced by Alex Tekurio.

Evelyn Bustamante of Da Island Way and Glenn Salonga of Manuia Polynesia were awarded overall vahine and tane soloists, respectively. And the dance group Manuia Polynesia, led by Tommy Tualaulelei, of San Francisco was named the overall group.

Competing groups included Da Island Way, Heali'is Polynesian Revue, Hui Tama Nui, Kaleo O'Nalani, Kawailehua Hula Ohana, Le Polynesia, Lei Isa, Manea Dancers, Manuia Polynesia, Mata'i Rea, Nemenzo, Nonosina, Puahi's Polynesian Dancers, Te Mana O Te Ra, Te Pura O Te Rahura'a, Varua Hae, and several independent dancers.

In addition to being the event producer and leading ra'atira of his own dance group, Hitia O Te Ra, Alex Tekurio is also taking a group to this years Heiva i Tahiti next month. The event is the original Tahitian dance competition that takes place annually in Papeete, Tahiti at Place To'ata.

Here are the results for the 2009 Hura Tahiti:

Soloist Awards

Age 5-7 Tamahine
1. Hope Fiaseu of Nonosina
2. Melia Timo of Nonosina
3. Kealani Rivera of Nonosina

Age 5-7 Tamaroa
1. Kobe Keoni Johnson-Dulay of Nemenzo
2. David Cordy - Independent
3. Dean Serrano of Lei Isa

Age 8-10 Tamahine
1. Lorie Pamatmat of Da Island Way
2. Fiona O'Neil of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Leilani Sabit of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a

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

Age 11-13 Vahine
1. Juliet Basnett - Independent
2. Melanie-Marie Amen of Mata'i Rea
3. Sammy McClymonds - Independent

Age 14-17 Vahine
1. Tabitha Tabbert of Lei Isa
2. Stephanie Efnor of Nonosina
3. Tessalonia Ambrose of Hui Tama Nui

Age 14-17 Tane
1. JB Almogela of Kawailehua Hula Ohana
2. Anthony Petersen of Nemenzo
3. Jerrod Meneses of Manuia Polynesia

Age 18-21 Vahine
1. Jena Doiron of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
2. Fa'anofo Laupepa of Nonosina
3. Christina Wood of Nemenzo

Age 18-21 Tane
1. Jordan Lilii of Nonosina
2. Ryan Samn of Nemenzo
3. Scott Arpen of Varua Hae

Age 22-25 Vahine
1. Heali'i O Nalani Stanley of Heali'is Polynesian Revue
2. Shanna Pineda of Te Pura O Te Rahura'a
3. Lizzy Gutierrez of Manea Dancers

Age 22-25 Tane
1. Glenn Salonga of Manuia Polynesia
2. Sonny Shwe of Nemenzo
3. John Depala of Varua Hae

Age 26-30 Vahine
1. Evlyn Bustamante of Da Island Way
2. Colie Amen of Mata'i Rea
3. Desiree Woodward-Lee of Nemenzo

Age 31-35 Vahine
1. Saua Case of Lei Isa
2. Maok Sako of Le Polynesia
3. Tania Riss of Manuia Polynesia

Age 31-35 Tane
1. Dean Silvestre of Lei Isa

Age 36+ Vahine
1. Sheila Keikilani of Le Polynesia
2. Leandra Thompson of Nemenzo
3. Michelle Swanson of Puahi's Polynesian Dancers

Overall Vahine
Evlyn Bustamante of Da Island Way

Overall Tane
Glenn Salonga of Manuia Polynesia

Group Awards

Ote'a
1. Nemenzo
2. Manuia Polynesia
3. Le Polynesia

Aparima
1. Manuia Polynesia
2. Nemenzo
3. Le Polynesia

Orero
Le Polynesia

Best Ra'atira
Le Polynesia

Best Costume
Manuia Polynesia

Overall Group
Manuia Polynesia

Music
1. Te Mana O Te Ra
2. Manuia Polynesia
3. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a

Drumming
1. Nemenzo
2. Le Polynesia
3. Manuia Polynesia

Ahupurotu
1. Te Mana O Te Ra
2. Manuia Polynesia
3. Te Pura O Te Rahura'a

Tamari'i Ote'a
1. Le Polynesia
2. Manuia Polynesia

Tamari'i Aparima
1. Le Polynesia

Tamari'i Ahupurotu
1. Le Polynesia
2. Kaleo O'Nalani

Tahitian dance boot camp

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 06:16:00 +0000

It’s time to kick the cookies to the curb and sign up for Mehetia Production’s 14-day Tahitian Dance Boot Camp, which uses fast-paced, high-energy Tahitian dance moves to shake you into serious shape...

But be forewarned: this boot camp isn’t the wimpy, air-conditioned version you see at the gym. Held at Kualoa Beach Park, and led by professional Polynesian hula dancer and choreographer Charelle Silva, these sessions include four hours a day of intense, heart-pounding, hip-gyrating, sweat-inducing workouts.

More of the story at Lei Chic