The Polynesian Dancing Method

The principles of dance movement
Steady control of the whole body must be maintained during the dance movements.

The various areas of movement are:

Head - sideways and up and down movement only.

Arms - sideways, up and down, wave movement, flapping, clapping and other movements.

Bottom hip (girls)  - a sideways swing movement synchronised with the tempo of the music. With legs comfortably apart , the whole body moves up and down whilst maintaining a continuous swing of the hip.

Bottom hip (boys) - a scissor-like open and close rhythm movement with the frequency appropriate to the tempo of the music. Legs must also be maintained in a comfortable position to acquire flexible side and down movements.

The boys and girls dance methods are interchangeable. This is often seen with professional dancers.

An experienced Polynesian dancer aims to minimise spinal movements with a smooth and controlled display from hip to toes.

It is a difficult discipline to master, requiring regular practice, but the result is a unique and entertaining style of dancing.