This year’s July 4th weekend was a time of celebration for competing members of our polynesian dance troupe, Te Pura O Te Rahura’a, as they were awarded with the Overall Best professional group at the 2010 Tahiti Fete of San Jose, the largest Tahitian dance competition held outside of Tahiti. Over 100 dancers, drummers, singers and musicians came together on the Tahiti Fete stage as they debuted their group entry, “O Ta’aki E”, a production based on a Tahitian legend of a the son of a polynesian god, which garnered numerous awards from the judges who hailed from both Tahiti and Hawaii. Thank you to all performers, families and friends for all of your hard work, dedication and support throughout this competition year. A special thanks to the following individuals whose talents and efforts made this production a success: Heirani Chevrier, Sam Almira, Gerald Villegas, Adrian DeCastro, Roy Parado, Te Ava Rua, Imogene O’Neill, Jody Goo, Ricky Viray, Raymond Bambao, Kevin Yee, Eric Aguon, Naomi Marquez, James Sarmiento, Ronnie Goo, Brendan O’Neill, Hannah Lee, Joseph Saligao, Christine Benedict, Tami Lautoa, Jessica Acosta and Randy Lafon. All of your energy, spirit and heart was definitely shown on stage and truly touched those who watched your performance. Congratulations once again to all Te Pura soloists and performers who competed this summer for your well deserved accomplishments!
TAHITI FETE OF SAN JOSE RESULTS:
Overall Hura Tau (Professional) Group Award
Overall Vahine Soloist Award- Shanna Pineda
Best Traditional Costume Award
Best Ra’atira Award
1st place Tamari’i Aparima Award
2nd place Tamari’i Ote’a Award
2nd place Hura Tau O’tea Award
2nd place Hura Tau Ahuroa Award
2nd place Hura Ava Tau Ahuroa Award (SOC Studio group)
3rd place Hura Tau Drumming Award