Event· Mangareva· French Polynesia: Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier & Australs
Rikitea Polynesian Dance Practice
23° 6.8′ S · 134° 58.2′ W · approximate
From late May the two rival Mangarevan dance troupes rehearse every evening for the July Heiva, and the drumming echoes across the anchorage. Visitors can watch the rehearsals ashore.
Practical
approx: the pin is the multi-purpose hall by the northern dock. Irie (2013) heard nightly drumming from both troupes from the end of May. That year's Heiva ran July 5-14 in a big hangar and outdoors, with tapena fundraising rounds, Miss and Mister Mangareva, Pe'i stomping dances, ote'a and aparima, and a closing ceremony on 14 July with free drinks and snacks. Pitufa (2020) says food stands and entertainment run for a week. July is mid-winter, so expect cold, windy, rainy nights and plan a reliable dinghy ride home. Bring cash to support the groups. Dates vary each year, so verify locally.
Best for
Culture during the winter months
Season
Rehearsals late May-June; Heiva in July