Kaorihiva is Stanford's premier Polynesian dance group and was founded in 2007. The group's name is a combination of the word 'dance' in various Polynesian languages, representative of the group's Polynesian choreographies of Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan, and Tongan origins. After establishing itself in the Stanford community, it quickly became a space for people to come together and celebrate Polynesian culture through dance.
The group has grown from a mere three people to 25 people. We stress the importance of community and welcome all people to join us in celebrating Polynesian culture through dance. We have been featured in many events across campus, including New Student Orientation: Faces of Community, Stanford Hawai'i Club's annual Lu'au, Stanford American Indian Organization's Annual Powwow, Admit Weekend, Rhythms, departmental parties, and various student groups' spring shows (such as IDX and Mariachi). We hope to be involved with many more events and performances, both in and out of the Stanford community.
Dink• February 2014
We had the chance to perform at Rhythms, a Sanskriti annual multicultural benefit showcase.
Alumni Tailgate• October 2013
Before Stanford's victory over UCLA, we had the opportunity to dance for the Stanford Alumni. We spread our love of Polynesian culture and even made their day!
Cantor Arts • October 2013
At the annual Cantor celebration, we debuted our newest members and had a great time getting back into the swing of things.
From left to right: Natasha A., Kamie, Jana, Jacob, Amber, Cheylene, Natasha D.
From top left to right: Chasity, Natasha, Alanna, Isabella.
From middle left to right: Makena, Natasha A., Alexzandra, Maya, Meredith
From bottom left to right: Amber, Cheylene, Kamie, Jana
Kaorihiva member Peter performs Sieku Pele, a Tongan number.
Photo taken by Stanford Humans
Kaorihiva member Jonathan performs Sieku Pele, a Tongan number.
Photo taken by Stanford Humans
We are always looking for outlets to perform and spread Polynesian culture. For any performance inquiries, questions, or comments, please contact us!