A spectacular island cultural show
If you are holidaying in the Pacific Islands a visit to a traditional island show is a must. I was lucky enough to experience one of these extravaganzas when I visited Samoa about twenty years ago. I loved it so I was keen to see whether an island show in Rarotonga would match up to my expectations …. and I wasn’t disappointed.
I chose the Te Vara Nui village as it was only about four hundred metres from my accommodation, it is the most widely advertised show throughout the island and has won many awards.
Te Vara Nui offers a Cultural Village Tour which showcases Cook Islands history, culture, traditional medicines, legends and local crafts plus an Over Water Night Show and buffet dinner. You can also combine the two in one package.
I wanted to do the combination package but the only day I could fit it in before the end of my holiday was the same day as my day trip to Aitutaki. As I couldn’t be in two places at once I went to Aitutaki for the day and then to the cultural show the same night. This turned out to be a great decision.
A spectacular show
The show is set in the beautiful lush gardens of the village around a large stage built out into the lake. Before the show starts we order a drink then help ourselves to the delicious buffet, then our plates are cleared and we make ourselves comfortable for the show.
The lights go down and the island drums start pounding in the darkness. Suddenly the stage is filled with beautiful girls in hula skirts, followed by amazing fire dancers. They perform by flaming torchlight on floating stages in the waterfall garden.
“The Legend of Tongaiti”.
The performance tells us a legend of a voyaging warrior by the name of Tongaiti. His is marooned at sea with his daughters and eventually spots the island of Rarotonga.
The natives were very hostile, throwing spears to scare Tongaiti and his people away from their shores. His family became tired and hungry and finally out of desperation, Tongaiti tells daughter to dance for the island Chief hoping her beauty would soften his heart and allow them to set foot on the land.
The chief is captivated by her beauty, falls in love with her and welcomes Tongaiti and his family onto his island and they celebrate with a feast and dance.
The drum beat is infectious and the rhythmic dancing is spectacular. It is a great performance which truly makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end!
Everyone on my table has a great time and the whole venue is on their feet clapping at the end of the performance. Truly one to add to your list of things to do on any visit to Rarotonga.
