Polynesian Cultural Center's "Te Mahana Hiro'a O Tahiti" - Tahitian Dance Competition was held this past weekend, July 10-11, 2009.

The event opened up Friday evening at Hale Aloha with the Tamarai'i (Junior and Senior Divisions) Solo Competition. The youngest under 5 were adorable with parents just off stage anxious for their children to dance and hop around as they do at home. The rest of the night was filled with color and showmanship. Jordan Mariteragi won the Tamari'i Tane Jr. Overall Soloist! Jasmine, also of Nonosina Hawaii took the Tamari'i Vahine Overall Soloist title in the Sr. Division. I don't have all the winners listed, but you can find them at PCC's website Tahiti Festival webpage.

http://www.polynesia.com/tahiti_festival/index.htm

The group events, Saturday, presented infants to teens in group performance. Marania Haoragi directed by Tahia Parker, Te Hamata directed by Penny Tuilolo, and Nonosina Hawaii directed by Jon and Tiani Mariteragi took the PCC Main stage in song and dance! From the well known popular tunes and beats of French Polynesia to the new, Nonosina Hawaii came home with Sr. Division first place honors. For all awards see PCC's website for details and photos.