Last week-end on Saturday, March 20th, 2021 the Taure’a ‘Ori Tahiti was organized by 6 students of the University of French Polynesia. This year was the second edition.
This event is an individual dance competition dedicated for teenagers and young adults aged from 16 to 25 years old. The goal of this contest is to help them gain experience and we can assume that this is a way to prepare for bigger contest.
The concept was born last year by students from the section administrative and commercial management for organizations at the University of French Polynesia. Also called the class “AHIAHI ” ( Ahiahi is a tahitian word that means night, the moment between 4:00 pm and the night fallen)
Regarding the jury, it was composed by 3 members.
© Stephane Mailion Photography
The first one is Keahealani Tsong, professional dancer who started dancing since she was 4. Moreover, she won several competitions in the categories solo and duo as well.
© Glendy Blackstone Photography
The second one is Emana Lehartel, passionate about his Polynesian culture. He has a solid track record as a regular ‘Ori Tahiti dancer and as a fire dancer as well.
© Victor Teriitahi
The third one is Victor Teriitahi, who has been practicing ‘Ori Tahiti for more than 20 years now and that also was a member of the jury for the Heiva I Tahiti 2012.
Besides, young artists were invited to sing during the intermission. There were Manua Tamati with his band and also Abel, member of the well-known music group in French Polynesia “ Koru “, who performed with a friend. Furthermore, the competitors were blessed by the dance orchestra from the group Tahiti Hura.
You can watch the facebook live’s replays and pictures of the contest on their Facebook page :
Taure’a ‘Ori Tahiti.
