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Polynesian Dance Moves and Meanings
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Tamau
A side to side hip movement in Tahitian Ori. It symbolizes the ocean's waves, reflecting the close connection Polynesians have with the sea.
Ami
A circular hip movement in Tahitian dance. Represents the natural circular patterns of life and continuity in Polynesian culture.
Varu
A figure-eight hip motion in Tahitian dance. It often illustrates the swaying of a tree or the undulating of a wave, showcasing the island's nature.
Fa'arapu
A fast and continuous circular hip shaking in Tahitian dance. It displays joy and celebration, often performed during upbeat and festive occasions.
Pa'oti
A motion where dancers flick their knees in and out while keeping their hips stationary. It signifies a warrior's display of strength in Polynesian culture.
Hela
A gesture in Hawaiian hula where one foot steps to the side and the dancer's body follows in a graceful motion, often representing travel or journey.
Kaholo
A four-step basic dance step in hula where the dancer moves side to side, typically used to imitate the movement of waves and the flow of the ocean.
'uwehe
A popping motion with the feet while bending and straightening the knees in hula. It can signify excitement or a bird flapping its wings.
Ka'o
A swaying motion of the hips in hula. This basic move represents the gentle sway of trees or the motion of undulating waves.
Kawelu
A graceful hula move involving a sideways slide of the foot with a simultaneous flick or a kick. It often depicts the rustling of leaves or a breeze in the air.
Otamu
Repeated thigh slapping in Cook Islands dance. It indicates rhythm and beat, but also symbolizes preparation for battle or showing one's strength.
Imene Tuki
A chant accompanied by stylized movements in Cook Islands dance, telling stories of ancestry and historical events.
Aparima
A Tahitian dance using hand movements to tell a story. It often depicts daily activities or natural elements, serving as a narrative dance.
Ote'a
A traditional Tahitian dance characterized by rapid hip-shaking and specific rhythmic patterns. It's often performed during important occasions and reflects cultural identity.
La'a
A Hawaiian dance move imitating the step of the sun, symbolizing growth, warmth, and life's journey.
Ka'apu
A traditional Maori dance step mimicking the movement of digging, symbolizing cultivation and preparation of the earth.
Tau'olunga
A dance performed in Tonga mainly by young women. It features gentle hand motions and gestures that relay cultural stories and values.
Hivinau
A circular group dance from the Marquesas Islands, with an emphasis on unity and community, as participants hold hands and move together.
Pate
A Samoan dance movement mimicking drum beats, symbolizing communication with the gods or ancestral spirits through rhythm.
Taualuga
The celebratory final dance in a Samoan performance. It embodies dignity and pride, often showcasing the lead dancer's grace and beauty.
Fa'ataupati
A traditional Samoan slap dance where performers use their bodies to create rhythmic sounds, often portraying strength and endurance.
Sasa
A Samoan dance performed either seated or squatting, involving rhythmic hand movements that portray various communal activities.
Kailao
A Tongan war dance involving vigorous movements with weapons, demonstrating agility and ferocity, traditionally performed before a battle.
Lakalaka
A Tongan group dance that combines singing and stylized movements, often performed at celebrations and conveying stories or historical narratives.
Fata
A dance movement used in Samoan dances where the hands are elegantly waved, representing the ocean waves and the islands' relationship with the sea.
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