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Yula-La Blog

The most updated news from Tahiti, Mainstream Pop Culture & Traveling Around the World. I love reading all their updated Blogs! Thank you YDF Team Members for these great Blogs.

Tahitian Men. You're Welcome!

8/26/2019

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They're strong. They're powerful. They're handsome. They're talented. But mostly, they are deeply rooted in their culture. They love what they do to share their culture all over the world. They are naturally beautiful. They are naturally talented. They work on it daily. When we watched them work and dance, we were impressed by their ability to show such power and strength in all of the dances. They are so incredible. Then, when they are done with their dances. They are extremely kind. Humble and very intelligent. They work during the days, they learn at nights, everything about their culture. Then, they perform in front of tourists from all over the world, sharing their culture for the rest of the world to feel of their love for their culture. What an inspiration. What beautiful men! 
Photos: Moana Blackstone. Tahiti Ora. Tamariki Poerani. 
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These are pictures of Men from Tahiti Ora and Tamariki Poerani. They are wonderful men. Kind. Strong and talented. We were lucky to get to watch them rehearse and perform. Such great men! Tahiti, if you ever get a chance to go. Check out the Men in Tahiti. You're welcome. 
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Moena Maiotui - YouTube's Trending Hips!

8/14/2019

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You have definitely seen Moena on YouTube at some point in your lives. You have attended one of her workshops. You have had her in your wedding line-up. You've seen her live performance, which is better than YouTube videos. Or you have taken private classes with her. Moena Maiotui and her viral hips. We've sat down multiple times with her and become really good friends. Almost family! Here is what we have learned about her.

Her videos have gone viral on YouTube, on our Facebook Page and everyone has seen those hips. Moena envelopes the words kindness, humble, fun, carefree and ready to share her love for her culture. 

Moena has been dancing since she was almost 4. Her mother knew once she started walking that she was going to be dancer. Her mother was also a dancer and that helped instill the want and the desire to become a Tahitian Dancer. Moena has danced with only the Top Tahitian Dance Groups of Tahiti. She began with Les Ballets O Tahiti E. Where she made her debut in the 1997 show, Te Re'o. Moena followed her dreams of dancing and continued to dance with Tumata Robinson at Les Grands Ballets De Tahiti. 

In 2007 Tumata created Tahiti Ora, where Moena became Lead Choreographer for the Dancers and they continue their legacy today! We have more articles about Tahiti Ora below.  
When we said she enjoyed sharing her culture. We were definitely not kidding. Moena has been around the world sharing her love for 'Ori Tahiti. She has held workshops in Australia, Mexico, Japan, France, New Zealand, Noumea, Hawaii, California, Utah, Las Vegas, Canada and so many other locations. 

"The best part about doing what I love, is traveling. I love to travel. I love to dance. Who gets to do the things they love while traveling? I am blessed and humble to be able to do this!" As Moena expressed her love for what she does. 

Moena embodies everything about being the Tahitian Dancer that she is. I would say majority of the Tahitian women are kind and embracing. Moena adds class to it. The women of Tahiti Ora embody this character. It could be because of their Award Winning Group Leader, Tumata Robinson. One of our Ambassadors know Tumata very well, for years. 

"Tumata is definitely a classy lady, She has always been kind when we emailed her, spoke with her and would see her in person. She was accommodating in all we needed for what we were doing this past summer. She is definitely talented in the 'Ori Tahiti world. I have always been a fan!" Stated Kai when we met with him at our Yula Conference. 
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Moena & Tumata are in full preparation for the Heiva I Tahiti 2020. They held an amazing fundraising concert to help fund their efforts in preparation for the Heiva in 2020. You can be certain our Team will be there to follow their journey. We are so excited to take our Team to Tahiti Summer 2020 to watch this exciting Event. Start saving up to go to that evening at Toata for the Heiva I Tahiti 2020. 

Tahiti Ora
​Heiva I Tahiti 2020

Having spoken to Moena Maiotui, we can assure you, she has definitely helped bring 'Ori Tahiti to the mainstream eyes. Yes, it is known. Yes, people have known of 'Ori Tahiti before. Moena just helped it stick! Thank you Moena for always being a class act. Sharing your love for 'Ori Tahiti. We really appreciate all you do for the Culture we all love. 

Photos: Moana Blackstone. Tumata Robinsons. Tahiti Ora. 
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'Aquaman' Jason Momoa Supports His Homeland, Hawaii.

8/13/2019

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Actor Jason Momoa standing with Mauna Kea. Jason has been a very magnetic support for saving and fighting for Mauna Kea. He has grown very close to his newfound family on the Mauna. Thank you Jason!
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'Aquaman' Jason Momoa spent a bit of his time, with his wife Lisa Bonet and kids, with his fellow natives in Hawaii. To be more precise, he spent time with his Hawaiian family supporting the cause to save Mauna Kea. He has dedicated his time and fame to teach others of the importance of saving indigenous land, to preserve what is left all that has native sacred meanings. 
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Joining Jason Momoa was his 'Justice League' friend, Ezra Miller, who plays the 'Flash' in the Justice League Film in the DCU Universe. Ezra was just as passionate to help save Mauna Kea. His heart is definitely Hawaiian. 
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4 Generations of Dancers. 2 Dance Schools. 1 Amazing Woman. Moeata Dance School & Tamarii Poerava!

8/12/2019

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Our Team spent numerous days watching, learning and growing love for this family that had opened their arms to us. Welcomed us and allowed us to follow their journey. The Laughlin family. Their wonderful Mother, Moeata, was the most kind, embracing and knowledgable Tahitian Lady we met on this trip. We sat multiple times and enjoyed their company while learning about 'Ori Tahiti through her eyes and her journey. The story is incredible. 

Moeata was brought up by her very religious Mama Faamu, yet she was very deeply rooted in the Tahitian Culture and definitely instilled in Moeata the grace and the beauty OF the Tahitian Culture. Moeata was taught the love of God. The beauty of the Culture and how important each role is in their lives. 

When Moeata was 16, she was asked to participate in the Heiva I Tahiti. At that time age wasn't important, but they did suggest the dancers to be at least 18 and older. But, she felt prompted to do it and competed in her first Heiva I Tahiti. She won. She took the award of the BEST DANCER for the Heiva I Tahiti that year. It was a celebrated year! Moeata had created a name for her. 

Fun fact, Moeata also met, and married, the love of her life, John Gabilou. The famed French Singer in French Polynesia and around the world. They have 4 wonderful children. We will get into that more below. 
4 Generations of dancers! The mother of Moeata. Moeata. Hianau and the daughter of Hianau. Moeata has 3 other wonderful children. Homai, with her wonderful son, also a dancer, Manarii and Noho! All such an amazing family! We were lucky to get to know them all individually, and they are fun, hilarious and full of love. 

The 4 women who dance, share the culture and continue to teach the Tahitian Culture, Perform the Tahitian Culture and most importantly, live the Tahitian Culture. Extremely a wonderful legacy to leave behind and a legacy to be proud of that you started. 
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Moeata Dance School has 2 locations on the islands of Tahiti. One in Faaa, which is the main studio hub for the Moeata Dance School. Then Taravao is the other location for their second studio. Faaa celebrated 30 years this year and we got to see it all in action. Their Taravao studio celebrated 10 years this year. We were definitely lucky to see all of the festivities and fun to celebrate their families successes. 

With all of this excitement, get this, there was more. They were honoring Moeata at the 2019 Heiva I Tahiti. We got to see it all. Film it all, with our Film Production Team, and enjoyed the night for Moeata and her successes, PLUS the announcing of the winners. 

We learned a lot from this gracious lady and grew to love her even more at the end of our stay in Tahiti. Hianau has become a great friend to our Team and to our Film Production Team we work with. We love their family. Our family! If you are looking for a school to go to, definitely look up Moeata Dance School. So worth it. ​
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Grace. Power. Class = Tahiti Ora!

8/10/2019

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Our Team just watched one of the most amazing shows tonight LIVE from Polynesie La 1ere. Thank you for showing it LIVE for all of us around the world. 

The show was incredible. Our Teams favorite was their interpretation of Taku Kimihanga. Such a beautiful dance to a beautiful song. The ladies sang live which made it better. The men always get a stir out of our Team. Always exciting. The ladies did another slow dance called TIATURI, I believe. And it was marvelous. We loved it with those green dresses. It was beautiful. 

The filming by Polynesie La 1ere was amazing! They had cameras and drones. The filming was simply on point. It was great. You enjoyed the show from many wonderful views. 5 Star filming for a 5 Star show. 

Here is the link to enjoy it again and again with your loved ones all over the world. you're welcome. 

https://www.facebook.com/polynesiela1ere/videos/362694014657117/UzpfSTEwMDAxNTAwMTkzMjU3NDo2NDMyNjI4MTYxODM3Nzc/

​Congrats to Tahiti Ora, Musicians, Dancers, Leads and most of all Tumata Robinson for bringing a fabulous show for all to enjoy. Good luck with the Heiva I Tahiti 2020. We will be there. 

Photos: Tea'z Tching
Video Link: Polynesiela1ere

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Tahiti Ora Concert "Hura Nui" Today & Live Broadcast

8/10/2019

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Today is the big day for Tahiti Ora and their very anticipated show, Hura Nui. For those of you still needing tickets in Tahiti, they will be selling 100 more chairs on site next to the Tiki. So, if you still need a ticket head over there at 14h in Tahiti. You will not be disappointed. 

With hard work an determination in all of their rehearsals, this show is definitely going to be a must watch in person. Tumata Robinson, Group Leader and Creator of Tahiti Ora, has been working hard to bring this show for all of you to enjoy, love and share with all your friends and family!

Having watched their rehearsals many times, it will be a great show. Their dancers are beautiful. The ladies are definitely some of the best on the island of Tahiti. Their men are strong and handsome. Her costumes are always on point. Tahiti Ora's choreography, usually done by Moena Maiotui, is always on the edge of new and exciting, while maintaining their roots in the Tahitian Dance. 'Ori Tahiti has been in evolution for many years now. Tahiti Ora is definitely the perfect blend between the two. Modern and Traditional. 
For those of you reading this Blog from around the world. If you go to Polynesie La 1ere's Facebook Page, they will be showing a live broadcast of the show from the Marae Arahurahu at 15h30 Tahiti Time. 

Our Team here at Yula Dance Fitness will be watching and bringing you details and praises of their show. Listed below if the link to go to the Facebook Page where you can watch the show. 

Enjoy! Ia Ora Na. 

https://www.facebook.com/polynesiela1ere/

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Photos: Kea'z Tching
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Hitireva: A Powerhouse Tahitian Dance Group

8/9/2019

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The power, the strength, the music, the drums and the beauty. All words to precisely describe Hitireva. Hitireva is run by the group leader, Kehaulani Changuy. Her voice echoes over hundreds f dancers during rehearsal, instructing all her dancers, drummers and singers to move this way, that way. To go down. Run and exit the stage area. All in sync. It was amazing. Hitireva definitely had organization, poise and talent. We knew this the first time we attended one of their rehearsal.

The beginning of their show began with chants, drums and beautiful movements from beautiful dancers. Kehau told us in a quick interview, "I don't choose the themes to my shows. I leave that up to the Authors. That is their job. My job is to bring it to life." And to life she did. Kehaulani had amazing choreography, movement and stage placements. The show was definitely worth seeing twice. Actually three, if we count the time we went to their private concert in Arue. 
Le spectacle était génial. Hitireva était précis, ensemble et unique. Très fort spectacle. Nous avons tous été extrêmement satisfaits du dur travail et de la présentation.
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Hitireva may have come in second place, to the overall grand winners, O Tahiti E, but they were definitely close to that prize. We will share their show below, make sure you watch it. It is beautiful. Hitireva, having earned their second place, proved to be equals against the legacy of O Tahiti E. Both amazing groups in their own rights. Room for everyone in Tahiti to share their interpretation of Ori Tahiti. Hitireva will definitely be around more often. Hitireva is already in connection with Nonosina of America. One of America's biggest groups, helping to teach and preserve the teachings of Ori Tahiti. 

Hitireva has won numerous awards in the Heiva I Tahiti. First place in Hura Ava Tau. First place again in the Hura Tau division. All great achievements and nothing to hold your head down low for. Hitireva is definitely going to be a group to watch in the near future to see what else they come up with.
We had the chance to speak with a lot of dancers and how they felt about being a part of Hitireva. They all pretty much had the same answers! We talked to Naku and she said, "It is amazing to be a part of a group that is so innovative in their ways of teaching and interpreting our Culture. We are definitely a younger generation eager to learn, and Kehau makes it fun, new and makes us proud to be Tahitian!" We pulled aside their male soloist, Teva, and he was more than ecstatic to tell us, "I enjoy learning from very talented people from our community. Kehau has taught a lot of us so much about our own culture. Stuff we didn't even know! I love being a part of it."

Before leaving, we got to speak to the Best Female Soloist for the Heiva I Tahiti 2019, who also dances for Kehaulani. And helps her teach her classes, Matatini. Matatini Mou won first place for best female soloist. This award was definitely earned. Her solo was breathtaking, on point and overall the best Ori Tahiti we have seen. She stated, "I love my culture. She is alive, strong and evolving. I am proud to be Tahiti! Winning the Heiva I Tahiti Best Female Solo has made me want to teach even more, about my culture!" All dancers we have encountered have been so sweet, inviting and so great. 

Check out their performance below! Subscribe. Follow us! 
Photos: Stephane Mailion
Videos: TNTV Tahiti Nui Television
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O Tahiti E 2019 - Overall Grand Winners Heiva I Tahiti

8/8/2019

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O Tahiti E was always known for making a grand entrance on the Heiva I Tahiti stage every year they competed! This time they felt inspired to come in with a soft, yet powerful, entrance. Almost like the breath of a strong wind coming in with a message. In this case, the message was strong and always on point. It started with the passing of a Grandmother, played by Margeurite Lai - Chef and creator of O Tahiti E in 1986. The theme was well thought out and definitely executed beyond all hopes of being amazing.

"Le Grand Souffle de la Vie" The Last Breathe of Life. Was the theme of O Tahiti E's show this year in the Heiva I Tahiti 2019. Within this last breathe was the knowledge and information of the culture that is dying, today. With this last breathe the culture can still live on today and prosper, if taught right by the inheriting ancestors. It was an extreme pleasure having a chance to see the performance live at the Toata Stage in Papeete Tahiti. Amazing!

Attending multiple rehearsals, while in Tahiti and following O Tahiti E, we were able to speak with multiple dancers and leads for O Tahiti E. They all shared and expressed their deep love for their culture. Taero Jamet, lead for the male dancers, expressed his gratitude to Marguerite Lai for allowing him to be a part of such history. "J'etait vraiment content de faire partir de ces groupe, O Tahiti E. C'est un groupe tres immerse dans la culture tahitienne. Et nous sommes fier d'etre parti de son legacy! Nous sommes tres content avec le theme qu'on a choisi cette annee. Vous allez beaucoup aime!" We were also able to speak to a foreign dancer from Hawaii that was participating in the Heiva I Tahiti with O Tahiti E. "I have always dreamt of being a part of the Heiva I Tahiti since I was a little girl. Now to actually be in the Heiva I Tahiti with one of the biggest groups in the world. I am more than excited to be a part of it. This has been so great and such a wonderful experience!" Kaileen is from Hawaii and has been learning from various dancing Teachers on Oahu. It was great to meet with her and her family. 

O Tahiti E has definitely earned this years overall awards. From costumes, theme, author, music and so much more. O Tahiti E has shown that they are still one of the most powerful, definitely most influential, groups in Tahiti. Their first night they competed, they were totally rained out, but as professionals as they are, they continued to dance through it all. Enjoy the video we shared from TNTV. 

Thank you to O Tahiti E for allowing us to follow your journey and to enjoy your victory as the overall grand winners for the Heiva I Tahiti in 2019. Can't wait to see what is left for the group in the future! We will miss you Marguerite Lai. In the hands of the younger generation now. 

​Photo Credit: Slyvie Wong. TNTV.

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Tahiti Ora Concert August 10, 2019

8/7/2019

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As the drums echo in the underground parking lot at the Lycee Hotelier of Faaa, Tahiti. Tahiti Ora is preparing for a fundraising concert at the Marae Arahurahu on Saturday at 4:00 pm. In Paea Tahiti. Trust me, you will definitely want to go to this show. With beautiful women and strong men, Tahiti Ora presents their new show, Hura Nui. Make the time to attend this one time show on the beautiful islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia. 
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While following Tahiti Ora during their rehearsals, we have come to deeply admire the wonderful process Tumata Robinson, group leader of Tahiti Ora, prepares for her upcoming shows. She is focused, dedicated and passionate to creating the perfect show to share her love for the Culture. 

With all of the rehearsal, costumes and organizing dancers to create the best dances for their new show, Hura Nui. Tahiti Ora also made the announcement to participate in the 2020 Heiva I Tahiti next summer. This concert will help raise funds for next years Competition Team. 

We are so excited to see what is in store for us! Tahiti Ora has won each time they have participated. According to Moena Maiotui, female lead dancer, they were automatically moved up to Professional their first year competing because Tumata is very well known in the Tahitian Dance World. Tumata has definitely proved her knowledge and taste in both of the Heiva I Tahiti's they competed in. And we are so glad she did. They were both amazing shows. Check them out on YouTube, if you missed it. 

Moena, having done Tahitian Dance Workshops all over the world, is very well known for her amazing faarapu. Her videos went viral on our Facebook page and YouTube. Definitely one to follow and hire if you want Tahitian Dance Workshops. 

Don't forget. 

Saturday August 10, 2019
3:30 pm [15h30}
Marae Arahurahu - Paea, Tahiti

Tickets available for 2000f at;
Carrefour Arue, Faaa & Punaauia
Radio 1 a Fare Ute
Online at ticket-pacific.pf

Wonderful pictures by Tahiti Ora - Photo Mel
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    Author

    Jordan Tevarampadu is an award winning author for various magazines in the early 2000's. She has decided to change over to Blogs to reach her audience. She enjoys learning from different cultures and backgrounds. 

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