The formidable Polynesian Dance Company from Anaheim, California, presented their new and sizzling show, Te A'a. Which means, Back to the Roots. Group Leader and Choreographer, Tiana Liufau, created an entire show catered to the famous Tahitian stage, Toata. The last time Nonosina was in Tahiti, was in the year 2013. Tiana felt it important to return to the roots of Tahiti, to recapture the love for the 'Ori Tahiti. 

Nonosina has garnered many awards since 2000. They have won awards in the San Jose Tahiti Fete. Hura Tahiti, Heiva I Honolulu, just to name a few. The name rings strong in the Polynesian Dance World. They have preparing for months and doing fundraisers to prepare for the trip. The Nonosina Team was excited to head back to Tahiti. Any why not? It is the roots of their love for 'Ori Tahiti.

The Nonosina Show, of course, was a huge hit for the people of Tahiti. They came out in numbers to see the presentation by Nonosina. They began their show with the beautiful islands of Samoa. This is where the founding and creating members of Nonosina are from. Following the first part of the show. The people of Tahiti were then presented with a beautiful show from Hawaii. The Hula was presented, speaking of the same theme. The roots. Nonosina ended with the Mother Island, Tahiti. Phenomenal Job! The Samoan section led and created by, Kuegi Toilolo. Well known designer and choreographer for the Samoan Community.

If you were able to witness the performance, we hope you all enjoyed it. If you have not seen it, yet. I am sure there will be videos posted. But for now, stay tuned for more picture, blogs and videos for this wonderful and magical performance by Nonosina. Joined by Nonosina was Halau Kilohana from Japan. Lead by the talented Miss Hula, Mika. It was an evening of wonderful talent from Japan, Tahiti, California and Hawaii. 

Pictures by: Talented Vaiarii Mailion
Videos by: La Polynesie 1er

Our talented dancer we would love to feature today comes from a family of dancers and cultural specialists. Robby began dancing at the age of 15. At first, it did not interest him at all. His first love would always be sports and crossfit. But, when you are young and surrounded by family members who dance, you dance with them. His Uncle was a huge part of the Tahitian Culture and asked Robby to dance. Robby's older sister danced for years. His cousins from Rurutu also danced with their family group. So, Robby figured, why not. He began his journey.

After competing in the Heiva I Rurutu. Robby also competed with Pupu Tu Haa Pae, again with his family, in the years of 2012, 2013 and 2014. Robby later joined Ori I Tahiti in 2015, all wonderful groups to be a part of. Robby just wanted to learn from many cultural specialists. Which is what you do as a Dancer. You spread your wings to learn from different masters. It is, indeed, how Dancers learn. When Robby first began dancing, his paoti was pretty good. but when it came to stamina and choreography. That was a catastrophe. But Robby is truly competitive and wanted to keep going.  

In 2015, Robby began dancing with Tahiti Ora. With Tahiti Ora he was able to travel more, visit unique places that embrace the Tahitian Culture. In 2016, Robby decided to return to compete with Pupu Tu Haa Pae. Then in 2017 and 2018, Robby had the honor to work with the great Tahitian Cultural Master, Olivier Lenoir and his group, Tahiti Ia Ruru Tu Noa. In 2019 Robby decided to 

In 2018, Robby competed as the Best Dancers representing his group, Tahiti Ia Ruru Tu Noa. He did a phenomenal job, and we have a video for all of you watching. Enjoy this fun video. He did a great job and we are so proud of him for all of his accomplishments in Dance and in Life. 

For fun, you will always catch Robby at the Cross Fit gym working out and taking care of himself. One of his biggest hobbies is to keep himself healthy. Such a great example of a Tahitian man. We love having him in our Feature today. 


Pictures: Stephane Mailion. Robby Ariiotima.
Video: Tahiti Nui Television.