TAMA TOA NUI is the 1st all-male Tahitian dance troupe in the U.S. led by Ryan Samn & Vairea Tupana.
The name TAMA TOA NUI was gifted to Ryan from his group leader in Tahiti: Papi Iriti Hoto, Fa'atere Pupu of the legendary Heikura Nui. Established as a competition group in 2017, the group entered the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete of 2018 as a Hura Ava Tau (amateur) group & took Overall group award that year.
The group took a 5 year break & organized itself once again 2024. Men from all over California & beyond came to learn from the group & entered the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete of 2025 for the 1st time as a Hura Tau
(professional group). On March 23rd, the group won Overall group for 2025.
TAMA TOA NUI is not a traditional dance school with regularly scheduled classes, tuition & enrollment.
We are a "Heiva" style competition team & our organization is under the direction of Tānera'i i Ni'a.
We work to educate & spread the love for the Tuha'a Pae (Australes) islands of French Polynesia.
2024-2025 Cohort
This was our 2024-2025 cohort & cast of performers who joined us on stage in 2025.
Our award winning presentation "Na Fetu E Hani" took place at the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete 2025.
Tama Toa Nui won Overall Group with 1st Place for 'Ote'a & 'Aparima.
2017-2018 Cohort
This was our original cast or dancers/performers who joined us on stage in 2018.
Our award winning presentation "Havai" took place at the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete 2018.
Tama Toa Nui won Overall Group with 1st Place for 'Ote'a & 'Aparima.
