In Tahitian dance, the Tamau (also known as “Tamure”) is a lively and rhythmic dance that requires skill and precision in its movements. It’s a popular dance in Tahitian culture and is often performed during festivals, celebrations, and other social events. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing a correct Tamau:

Basic Stance: Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and arms slightly bent at your sides.
Hip Movement: The key to the Tamau is the rapid movement of the hips. The hips move in a circular motion, thrusting from side to side. Practice this motion by focusing on isolating your hips and keeping the upper body relatively still.
Hand and Arm Gestures: While the hips move, your arms and hands play an essential role in the dance. Hold your hands out to the sides at about waist height, with your palms facing upward and fingers slightly curved. As you dance, your arms will move gracefully in coordination with the hip movements.
Footwork: The footwork in Tamau is relatively simple. It involves stepping and tapping in sync with the hip movements. Start by taking a small step to the side with one foot, followed by a tap of the other foot beside it. Then, repeat the same movement on the other side. Keep your steps light and lively to match the overall energy of the dance.
Timing and Rhythm: The Tamau is a fast-paced dance with a lively rhythm. The hip movements, arm gestures, and footwork should all be in sync with the beat of the music. Listen to the music carefully and practice dancing to the rhythm until you feel comfortable with the timing.
Facial Expressions: In addition to the movements of the body, facial expressions play a significant role in Tahitian dance. Smile and show joy and enthusiasm while dancing, as this will enhance the overall performance and connect with the audience.
Posture and Energy: Keep your posture upright and energetic throughout the dance. Engage your core muscles to maintain stability and balance during the rapid hip movements.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any dance, mastering the Tamau requires practice. Take the time to rehearse regularly, both with and without music, to improve your technique and fluidity.
Watch and Learn from Experts: If possible, watch performances by experienced Tahitian dancers to observe their movements, technique, and style. Learning from experts can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
Respect the Culture: Tahitian dance is a significant part of the local culture, so approach it with respect and appreciation for its traditions and history.

Remember, Tahitian dance is not only about precise movements but also about expressing joy, celebration, and connection to the rich Polynesian culture. Enjoy the process of learning and dancing the Tamau!