Merahi Productions invites Tahitian dancers from across the state and beyond to come together in Hilo for its 11th annual cultural exhibition and competition, Heiva I Keaukaha.
Merahi Productions invites Tahitian dancers from across the state and beyond to come together in Hilo for its 11th annual cultural exhibition and competition, Heiva I Keaukaha.
Tahitian halau and solo dancers can still register for the event, which will feature a full day of solo and group dance competitions at Kawananakoa Gym in Keaukaha on Sunday, June 23.
“So far, we have groups from Hawaii Island, Maui and Oahu currently registered, as well as independent dancers coming from California for the solo competitions,” said volunteer Jennifer Ah Sing. “We have this every year, and it’s hit. We’re excited that many dancers come back each year and that we have people coming for the first time.”
The Tahitian group divisions will include group, five-person and tamari’i Ote’a, group and tamari’i Aparima and group Ahupurotu. Tamahine, tamaroa, vahine and tane soloists will compete in their age division and there will be a separate competition for coupled solos.
Craft and food vendors will be available throughout the day with an assortment of Polynesian items and local favorites.
Under the direction of kumu Tiffany Dela Cruz, Merahi vahine and tamahine dancers will display their love of Polynesian culture with Ote’a and Aparima performances throughout the event.
The annual celebration of Tahitian dance and culture will begin at 10 a.m. at Kawananakoa Gym on Sunday, June 23. Those interested in entering the competition must turn in applications and fees by Sunday, June 16.
Forms are available online at merahiproductions.wixsite.com/merahi. For more information, email merahiproductions@yahoo.com.
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