Heiva i Tahiti 2018 grand prize winner ‘Ori i Tahiti was set up in 2011 by Teraurii Piritua. This year, at marae Arahurahu, he will propose his creation ‘Ai’a, the Homeland, supported by more than 80 artists, dancers, musicians, singers, orators and actors.

‘Ai’a is not a term as widely used as fenua. Only the latter has drawn the attention of all. It is only when we talk about a national anthem that the notion of Homeland is highlighted. This is not a question of being biased. It is true that the land has its share of importance but so does the Homeland. The question asked by ‘Ori i Tahiti is about that point: what is the distinction between the Homeland and the land? Eventually, what is the difference between the two concepts in the Mā’ohi world?

The show, organised with the support of the Art Conservatory of French Polynesia, comprises four different parts. While the theme is abstract, the site in itself will be the main setting and will emphasize the whole dimension of this creation.

Group leader: Teraurii PIRITUA

Choreographies: Tereurii PIRITUA, Kelly TEROROTUA, Poerava TAEA and Francky TEHIVA

Author of the theme and of the ‘aparima songs: Tane RAAPOTO

Song composers: Teraurii PIRITUA and Tamatoa KAUTAI (Best composer prize and best ‘aparima prize at Heiva i Tahiti 2018)

Conductor: Tamatea TERAA

‘Ai’a the Homeland

Saturdays 6, 13, 20 and 27 July and Saturday 3 August 2019, at 15h45

Venue: marae Arahurahu, Paea (PK 22,5 on the mountain side of the road)

Single price: XPF 2,000

Tickets sold at: Radio 1 Fare Ute, Carrefour stores and online at www.ticket-pacific.pf

For further information: +689 40 54 54 00 / +689 40 43 41 00 / www.heiva.org