Competitive Polynesian Dance

 Did you know that the dances you see at a luau can be danced competitively? For many people, it comes as a surprise that the beautiful dances of the Pacific are not just purely danced for entertainment but are also danced in a competitive setting. Hula, Ori Tahiti and Siva Samoa are some of the more popular dance styles that can be danced in competition. These dance styles have entire events dedicated to judging the skill, technique, costume, music, theme and knowledge of dancers and their groups. Success in these different competitions give dancers notoriety, a chance to showcase their skill, prizes and scholarships. Some dancers and groups that become successful in the competition circuit can be asked to go on tour or join dance companies as soloists.
For example, Ori Tahiti (Tahitian Dance) competitions are held all over the world in places like California, Hawaii, Paris, Japan, and Mexico. Dancers train to dance as soloists or groups. Dancers and groups that place in their category gain notoriety and the chance to be chosen to represent our country in Tahiti. Hula is more widely known to be danced competitively in the famous Merrie Monarch festival held Hawaii every year or on the mainland at competitions like E Hula Mau in California. Dances from Samoa or Siva Samoa are known to be competitive amongst high schools and colleges. A popular Samoan dance competition is held annually at the Polynesian Cultural center on Oahu. Kalakeke Pacific Island Dance Co. of Santa Clarita participates in competitive Tahitian dance and has several award winning dancers from competitions all over the country.
This year, Kalakeke beautifully represented Santa Clarita in Hawaii at one of the oldest American Tahitian dance competitions Heiva I Kauai and took home 2nd place in group Aparima. It was an amazing experience for the entire group and helped raise our skill level. If you are ever interested in checking out one these competitions, following your local Polynesian dance group Kalakeke PIDC or even if you want to join in on the fun and dance visit www.scvhula.com and follow us on Facebook. Mahalo nui loa!
For more information, please call 661-294-3062 and visit www.scvhula.com.