lakalaka

dance

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June 30, 2026

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The lakalaka is a Tongan dance tradition performed by both men and women. It is an evolved form of the me’elaufola group dance and is accompanied solely by sung poetry. This dance is a visual interpretation of poetry, with movements of the hands and arms conveying the story. While Tongan dance emphasizes arm and wrist movements, the lakalaka is performed standing or sitting, with legs primarily used for keeping time. The poetry referenced in the lakalaka often alludes to mythology, chiefly genealogies, and significant places or events.1

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Oceanic music and dance
Polynesia
…dance, which flourishes today, the lakalaka, is performed by men and women together in accompaniment to sung poetry only. Solo and small group dances performed by one, four, or eight women often follow the large group dances and are more concerned with beautiful movements than with interpretation of poetry, although…
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…dance, which flourishes today, the lakalaka, is performed by men and women together in accompaniment to sung poetry only. Solo and small group dances performed by one, four, or eight women often follow the large group dances and are more concerned with beautiful movements than with interpretation of poetry, although…
Read More