Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company

Welcome to Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company, a vibrant and respected dance studio based in Daly City, California. For over a decade, Hui Tarava has served as a passionate ambassador for 'Ori Tahiti, the authentic dance form of Tahiti. Founded in 2013 by Justin "Froggie" Atangan and Angélique Bannag, this company is more than just a dance school; it’s a living tribute to Polynesian culture, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and traditions of Tahitian dance with the Bay Area community.

The name "Hui Tarava" itself holds deep meaning, translating directly to "Orion's Belt," a constellation that appears during Matari'i i nia, the season of abundance in Tahiti. It also signifies "long or continuing generations," a testament to the founders' commitment to passing down this vibrant art form. Justin and Angélique, though young, have achieved significant recognition for their dedication, having spent the majority of their childhood and early adult life dancing 'Ori Tahiti for Nemenzo, and being mentored by esteemed figures like Jean "Coco" Hotahota of Temaeva and Auntie Roiti Silva. This deep lineage ensures that students at Hui Tarava receive instruction rooted in true cultural authenticity.

For individuals and families in California seeking to immerse themselves in Polynesian culture and learn the energetic and expressive art of 'Ori Tahiti, Hui Tarava offers an unparalleled experience. They not only teach the basic traditional dance steps but also challenge students to learn every aspect of the art, including drumming and music. This holistic approach empowers dancers to not only master movements but also understand the stories, emotions, and cultural significance behind each performance, fostering a profound connection to the spirit of Tahiti.

Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company is conveniently located at 2930 Geneva Ave, Daly City, CA 94014, USA. This accessible location places the studio strategically for residents across Daly City and the broader San Francisco Bay Area. Situated on Geneva Avenue, it offers straightforward navigation for those traveling by car from various nearby communities, including San Francisco, South San Francisco, Colma, and Pacifica.

The studio's location typically provides accessible parking options, which is a significant convenience for students and families, especially given the various class times. For those who utilize public transportation, the area around Geneva Avenue is generally well-served by local bus routes, potentially offering direct or connecting routes to BART stations, further extending its reach across the Bay Area. This ease of access ensures that a diverse range of individuals, from children to adults, can conveniently attend classes and participate in the cultural experiences offered by Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company, making it a practical choice for locals passionate about Polynesian dance.

• Tama Maohi (Children ages 12 & younger): Classes focused on kids' basics and choreography, introducing fundamental Tahitian dance movements in an age-appropriate manner.
• Te Maeva (Dancers ages 13+): Classes dedicated to technique and movement, building a strong foundation in 'Ori Tahiti.
• Matari'i i N'ia (Dancers ages 16+): Advanced choreography classes, specifically focusing on 'Ote'a and Aparima, which are key Tahitian dance forms.
• Heiva Rau (All Ages): Classes designed for solo competition basics, preparing dancers for individual performance opportunities.
• Pūpahu (Directors Approval Only): Advanced classes focusing on 'Ori Tahiti dynamics, requiring director approval due to the intensity and specific focus.
• Performance Opportunities: Providing students with opportunities to perform as part of the company at various events and cultural celebrations, acting as ambassadors for 'Ori Tahiti.
• Cultural Preservation: Through teaching and performance, the company actively works to preserve and transmit Tahitian culture, history, and traditions.
• Drumming and Music Integration: While learning dance, students are also challenged to learn aspects of Tahitian drumming and music, offering a holistic understanding of the art form.

• Authentic Tahitian Dance (Ori Tahiti): Hui Tarava is highly regarded for its commitment to preserving and teaching the true, traditional art of 'Ori Tahiti, rather than a diluted form.
• Experienced and Accomplished Directors: Led by Justin "Froggie" Atangan and Angélique Bannag, who are young but have significant personal experience dancing 'Ori Tahiti and have been mentored by legendary figures in the Tahitian dance world (e.g., Jean "Coco" Hotahota of Temaeva).
• Generational Knowledge Transfer: The name "Hui Tarava" itself signifies "long or continuing generations," reflecting the company's dedication to passing down ancient traditions and knowledge to new students.
• Holistic Approach to Learning: Beyond just dance steps, students are encouraged to learn about the drumming, music, and cultural significance behind the movements, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation.
• Emphasis on Community and Cultural Ambassadorship: The company serves as an ambassador for 'Ori Tahiti, performing and educating audiences, thereby enriching the cultural landscape of the Bay Area.
• Structured Curriculum for All Ages: Offers diverse classes tailored to different age groups and skill levels, from young children to advanced adults, ensuring a progressive learning path.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to perform, allowing them to showcase their skills, build confidence, and experience the joy of sharing Tahitian culture.
• Positive Reputation: Customers praise the directors' achievements and the company's excellence, highlighting it as an "Excellent Tahitian dance troupe."

Address: 2930 Geneva Ave, Daly City, CA 94014, USA

Phone: (415) 466-6486

Mobile Phone: +1 415-466-6486

For residents of Daly City and the broader San Francisco Bay Area in California, Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company is an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for anyone interested in dance and cultural immersion. Its profound suitability for locals stems from its authentic approach, dedicated leadership, and vibrant community contribution.

Firstly, Hui Tarava offers a rare opportunity to learn the authentic art of 'Ori Tahiti directly from highly accomplished and culturally rooted instructors. In a diverse region like the Bay Area, access to genuine cultural education is highly valued. Justin "Froggie" Atangan and Angélique Bannag bring a deep understanding and passion for Polynesian dance, ensuring that students are not just learning steps, but truly connecting with the rich traditions and history of Tahiti. This commitment to authenticity provides an invaluable experience that might be difficult to find elsewhere locally.

Secondly, the studio's structured curriculum caters to a wide range of ages and skill levels, making it accessible to the entire family. Whether a young child is taking their very first dance steps or an adult wishes to master advanced techniques for competition or personal enrichment, Hui Tarava provides a welcoming and progressive learning environment. This inclusiveness fosters a strong sense of community, allowing local families to share in a unique cultural activity together.

Finally, by actively preserving and promoting 'Ori Tahiti, Hui Tarava enriches the cultural tapestry of the Bay Area. For locals, participating in or simply supporting such an organization means contributing to the vibrancy and diversity of their own community. The studio not only offers a fantastic physical and artistic outlet but also serves as a cultural bridge, bringing the spirit of Polynesia closer to home. Its convenient Daly City location further enhances its appeal, making Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company an ideal choice for anyone in California seeking a meaningful and exciting dance experience.

Hui Tarava Tahitian Dance Company

2930 Geneva Ave, Daly City, CA 94014, USA