Polynesian Art and Culture Representatives

Interviews Polynesian Art and Culture Representatives

Voice of the Islands: Lomez Brown on Music and Identity

May 27, 2025

Exploring heritage, harmony, and the heart behind the music. Today, we have the pleasure of…

Hura Tapairu 2025

Start date: November 26, 2025

End date: December 6, 2025

Time: 12:00 am - 12:00 am

Location: FC4C+CH6, Bd de la Reine Pomare IV, Papeete 98714, French Polynesia

More Info

Dance Festivals

In 2025, Hura Tapairu returns as a vibrant affirmation of Polynesia’s living culture, a festival and dance competition that marries tradition with innovation. From 26 November to 6 December 2025, the Grand Théâtre of Te Fare Tauhiti Nui in Papeete will come alive with the rhythms, costumes, and emotions of this beloved dance event.

What Is Hura Tapairu?

Created in 2004, Hura Tapairu is a platform for small dance troupes — no more than about 30 dancers on stage — to present original choreographies. It sits beside the famed Heiva i Tahiti, offering more freedom for creativity, costume innovation, and musical experimentation.
The name itself combines “hura” (dance) and “tapairu” (grace/originality), indicating the twin values of tradition and artistic license.

What’s New / Special in 2025

The dates are set: 26 November – 6 December.
Hura Tapairu Manihini, a companion competition for foreign groups or “visiting” troupes (manihini means visitor), runs from 26 to 28 November. This allows international participants to share and compete in the same tradition of ‘Ori Tahiti.
Registration for the 2025 edition is open; performers must submit their applications by 1 October through the official Hura Tapairu or Maison de la Culture.

Why It Matters

Cultural Expression: Hura Tapairu is more than a competition — it’s a way for troupes, choreographers, musicians, costume-makers, and dancers to express their cultural identity, reinterpret tradition, and share stories. It’s a living culture, not a museum piece.
Accessibility: Because it is designed for smaller groups and more flexible in style, it allows emerging talents and communities with fewer resources to participate. That opens up dance, creation, performance, and artistic ambition to wider sectors of Polynesian society.
International Bridge: With the “Manihini” competition, there is a growing international interest in Tahitian dance. Groups from outside French Polynesia increasingly take part — sharing in the learning, exchange, and global reach of ‘Ori Tahiti.

What to Expect

Performances: Expect evenings filled with choreographed dances ranging from the deeply traditional to more experimental pieces. The event will showcase both “mehura” (traditional/historically-rooted) and “tapairu” (more expressively creative) categories.
Costumes & Design: Costume design is always a highlight — the opportunity for creativity here is wide, from classic tapa and feather adornments to modern reinterpretations.
Audience & Atmosphere: The evenings are communal, exciting, and emotional. The performances are judged with respect for both tradition and innovation. Visitors will feel the pride, intensity, and communal spirit.

MAP: https://maps.app.goo.gl/46rvZYAARXUzvVKf8