Heiva i Tahiti: The cultural soul of Polynesia

Heiva i Tahiti is much more than just a dance competition: it is a living expression of Polynesian identity,
an event that brings entire communities together to preserve and pass on their ancestral cultural heritage.

BLOGS, Events, Family, Resort, Things to do, Within the Resort

July 17, 2025

A spectacular, multifaceted show

These performances are unique creations that bring together more than 150 artists on stage to compete in the Heiva i Tahiti, offering a show of striking richness and intensity.

From the ‘orero who recites with solemnity, to the ra’atira who motivates the troops with powerful energy, from the choreographer who designs the synchronized movements to the pūpahu dancers in the front row, from the percussionists to the chorus singers who set the rhythm for the scenes, each member of the troupe plays an essential role.

– Mini Heiva 2024, Matareva, 1st night with Heitoa

Demanding preparation

Behind the scenes, these masterful works are the result of a whole year of preparation. The troupe leader and songwriter draw inspiration from the words of elders, transforming legends, sacred places, and collective memories into themes that respect the right tone, authentic language, and traditional gestures.

This artistic creation requires total commitment: more than six months of intensive rehearsals for the dancers and musicians, several evenings a week. The costumes, made from raw materials transported from distant archipelagos, are assembled late into the night by expert hands. Several fundraisers are organized collectively on weekends to finance this large-scale, short-lived undertaking, demonstrating the spirit of solidarity that drives these projects.

– Mini Heiva 2024, Matareva, 2nd night with Hitireva

The essence of Heiva: communion and sharing

This exceptional artistic project transcends individuality to bring together entire families and communities around shared values: a passion for dance, a burning desire to pass on cultural traditions, and a desire to encourage Polynesian artistic expression.

And all this for one evening, one magical hour at To’ata! To capture this unique moment when voices resonate in unison and bodies dance in perfect harmony, to vibrate together on stage in perfect communion… this is the very essence of Heiva.

– Mini Heiva 2024, Matareva, 2nd night with Hitireva

The InterContinental Tahiti’s Mini Heiva: A tradition that lives on

For over forty years, the InterContinental Tahiti hotel has been perpetuating and
extending this month of festivities with four evenings of performances showcasing the best of Heiva.

These performances on the paepae, a traditional stone stage at Grand Motu,
allow visitors to discover authentic Polynesian culture in a privileged setting.

The award-winning troupes perform the highlights of their shows under the stars to the delight of local and international guests.

Fans of ‘ori tahiti and families of artists can also (re)discover their favorite shows on a more intimate stage, seated for an exceptional buffet dinner featuring local specialties, oysters, lobster, and culinary shows presented by our chefs.

A unique experience under the stars

The InterContinental’s Mini Heiva offers a unique experience, immersing you in this centuries-old tradition. On a stage close to the audience, under the starry Pacific sky, spectators can feel the first thrills as the to’ere drums roll, and let themselves be carried away by the beauty of the songs and the grace of the traditional dances.

These moments of shared beauty, filled with grace and emotion, allow visitors to immerse themselves in the Polynesian soul and understand why the Heiva remains the beating heart of Tahitian cultural identity.

Come and discover this living tradition at the InterContinental Tahiti hotel,
where Polynesian authenticity is revealed in all its splendor.