Passion for tradition

By Vatapuia Maiava 18 August 2016, 12:00AM

There is no disputing the fact we are proud Samoans. It doesn’t mater where in the world we live, our lives are dictated by customs, traditions and what we love the most about where we are from.

 For a group of Samoans in New Zealand known as Le La o Samoa, that passion about Samoa is deeply rooted in dancing. 

And in September, the group will bring that passion to Samoa when they come for a tour and several performances. 

Specializing in Samoan Siva; the group was founded nine years ago by Sia Su’a and is currently being directed by her daughter Lana Sellen Aoina who is also the group’s choreographer.

“We love and have a strong passion in what do,” Ms. Aoina told the Samoa Observer.

The group will be performing for this year’s Teuila Festival as well as fiafia nights for different accommodation; they will also be filming their 3rd DVD during the trip.

Since La O Samoa was founded nine years ago, the group has visited Samoa five times mainly for the Teuila Festival.

But what exactly does the have to offer here in Samoa?

“We specialize mainly in traditional Samoan traditional dances with a little bit of contemporary style,” Ms. Aoina said.

“We also offer colourful performances such as Cook Island, Fijjian, Hawaiian, Tahitian, fire dancing when it’s requested of us.”

A trip like this does not come cheap but the trip was made possible after a series of frundraisers.

“We held two social fundraisers,” Ms. Aoina said.

“One at Tausala Club and Fiafia Nite club; both were a huge successes. We raised funds for our airfares, costumes, accommodation and for our DVD.

“We could not have done it without God on our side, the support of our friends, families, followers was overwhelming and we are forever grateful and blessed.

But what holds a group like this together?

“Our friendship,” Ms. Aoina replied.

“Trust, passion in what we do, dedication, determination, supporting each other, reliable dance team members, good communication, commitment and contributions.

“We treat others in a respectful and supportive manner; overall we have a great team of dancers, young role models that young girls look up to. “

With the trip now just around the corner, Ms. Aoina said that the one thing she looks forward to most about coming back home is to be able to showcase her groups talents.

“We look forward to showcasing our talent and to give back to our people who have supported us in the last 9 years,” she said.

“It is also a good chance for our followers who reside in Samoa to watch us perform live; most importantly spending time with families and friends back home.”

But the one thing Ms. Aoina is thankful for is all the support from fans and loved ones.

“Thank you Samoa for your ongoing support,” she said.

“Thank you for your prayers… you have never failed us; we will continue to make you proud and promote Siva Samoa to the world, God bless you all.”

By Vatapuia Maiava 18 August 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>