Season 2

We are blessed to have had another successful year of Heiva Pasifika NYC! This is such an important event for NYC and the larger East Coast region. Representation matters! The three day weekend kicked off with a full day and evening of Ori Tahiti Master Classes and Choreographic Workshops led by our Tahitian professionals and guest artists: Aruho’ia Biret, Poerani Germain, and Noari’i Teiva. Each offered unique perspectives and approach to technique, dancing, and choreography.

Our Opening Protocol and Rahiri featured some of our native cousins Shane and Tecumseh of the Shinecock nation, offering heartfelt songs and welcoming chants and brief historical lessons. Aruho’ia offered a beautiful aparima and paripari fenua followed by Te Ao Mana offering Hawaiian chants and Ataahua Papa our Maori sister offering chant and Te Reo introductions.

The following events celebrating our cultural heritage bringing together hundreds from the community included an artisanal marketplace, costume sale, Moana Nui workshops in Poi, Waiata, Olelo Hawaii, and Siva Samoa, an exciting Ori Tahiti Competition, fashion show, cocktail parties, and an amazing premiere of Walking Rocks by Te Ao Mana. What a beautiful community and people we have.

A big mahalo nui and deep gratitude for our supporters, donors, and sponsors including: Te Ao Mana, The Robert Wood Johnson President’s Grant Fund of the Princeton Area Community Foundation, Leslie Morioka, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC), Living Hula, Hinano Tahiti, Matai, Parfumerie Tiki, Ka’ahanui Creations, ELITE Tahiti, Hakamanu Farms, Halawai, A/P/A Institute NYU, Waiahole Store, Manahau by Aruho’ia, and Ia Ora Te Hura.