PHOENIX (AZFamily) — An East Valley Polynesian dance school is sharing the culture and music of the Pacific with Arizona.
Tamāli’i Polynesian Entertainment opened in 2015 in Mesa by Dion and Gabrielle Ott.
Tamāli’i is Samoan for “high chief” or “royalty,” and the dance school aims to serve the Pacific Island community and perpetuate the culture and diversity of Polynesia with their audiences.
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People of all ages can learn the traditions and dances of Samoa, like the Sasa or Fa’ataupati, which is performed to original fast drumbeats.
Along with their connection to Samoan culture, Tamāli’i Polynesian Entertainment represents other cultures like Hawaiian, Tahitian and Tongan through their performances. They are gearing up for their summer classes for girls and women ages 4+. Registration is open, and classes begin on June 3 in Mesa near Crimson Road and Southern Avenue. Dance classes for males will also be available this summer.
The dance school hosts an annual showcase called “Fiafia Night”, and performs at cultural festivals in Arizona, like the Arizona Aloha Festival, and other states such as Las Vegas, Utah and California.
Tamāli’i Polynesian Entertainment is performing a Siva Samoa on Arizona’s Family. This is a Fa’ataupati, also known as a Samoan Slap Dance, performed only by men. It showcases their strength, agility and capability and involves striking, body percussion and jumping.
To learn more about Tamalii, click/tap here.
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