By checking the box, I acknowledge that I, the dancer and/or parent/guardian of the minor dancer, have read and understand the listed policies and handbook provided during my registration. I agree to follow these guidelines and policies and support a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment for all dancers, musicians, families, and instructors. I understand that these policies and the handbook are in place to help classes run smoothly and ensure the best possible experience for every student in our pūpū ‘ori/halau. I further understand that this checkbox serves as my electronic signature confirming my agreement to all Teoraroa policies and handbook.

I. Assumption of Risk
The dancer and/or parent or legal guardian of a minor dancer (under the age of 18 years of age) (collectively the “Releasor”) voluntarily assumes full and complete responsibility for all such risks, known or unknown, which the dancer may sustain or face as a result of participation in the Activities (as defined in the Safety and Injury Policy), regardless of the cause. The dancer is physically fit and has no medical condition that would prevent full participation in the Activities. The Releasor agrees to inform the Studio immediately of any changes to the dancer's physical condition or any injury sustained outside of class.
II. Release and Waiver of Claims
In consideration of the dancer being permitted to participate in the Activities, the Releasor, on behalf of the dancer and its respective heirs, executors, administrators, personal representatives, and assigns, hereby WAIVE, RELEASE, AND FOREVER DISCHARGE Teoraroa LLC, its owners, directors, instructors, employees, agents, volunteers, and all other persons or entities acting on its behalf (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all liabilities, demands, claims, damages, and causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by the dancer or any property belonging to the dancer, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASED PARTIES OR OTHERWISE, while participating in the Activities or while on the studio premises.
III. Indemnification and Hold Harmless
Releasor further agree to INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD HARMLESS the Released Parties from and against any and all costs, expenses, damages, or liabilities, including reasonable attorney's fees, that the Released Parties may incur as a result of any claim, suit, or lawsuit brought by the dancer, myself/ourselves, or any other party acting on the dancer's behalf. This includes any claim arising from property damage or personal injury that the dancer may cause to others.

Media RELEASE
For Members


1. Consent. This Agreement is entered into with Teoraroao LLC (the “Company”) by the individual submitting this form (the “Releasor”). The Releasor confirms that they are either (a) the dancer and are 18 years of age or older, or (b) the parent or legal guardian of the dancer under 18 years of age and has the full legal authority to enter into this Agreement. The Releasor hereby consents to the dancer’s participation in said production and acknowledges that the Company will invest substantial time and expense in creating the media. The Releasor further consents to the dancer being personally identifiable in the resulting media, regardless of production method or type of media, including, without limitation, digital and analog photography, film and videography (with or without sound), and audio recordings (collectively the “Media”) whether captured or created by the Company directly, or by those acting under the Company’s direction. The Releasor further consents to the dancer’s image, name, voice, performance, and physical appearance (collectively, the “Likeness”) being captured, recorded, and personally identifiable in the Media. 

2. Grant of Rights and Complete Release.  The Releasor irrevocably grants to the Company, its successors, assigns, and licensees, the unrestricted, perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free right and license to use the Media and the dancer's Likeness for any lawful purpose, including, but not limited to, advertising, publicity, promotion, and commercial uses, in any and all manner, media, and forms of exploitation now known or hereafter devised.

Furthermore, the Releasor completely and forever releases any current and future financial interest, ownership claim, or intellectual property control of the Media to the Company. The Company shall own all right, title, and interest, including all copyright, in the Media. The Releasor shall not be entitled to any compensation, residuals, or royalties for the Company’s use of the Media or Likeness.

3. Authorization and Manipulation. The Releasor authorizes the reproduction of the dancer's voice or Likeness in connection with the use or manipulation of the Media by the Company. The Releasor grants the Company the right to process, alter, blur, distort, combine, or use the Media in conjunction with any other media in its sole discretion.

4. Waiver of Approval. The Releasor waives any right to approve the eventual use of the Media, or to inspect or approve the finished images, videos, advertising copy, artwork, materials, or other matter resulting from the Media’s use or manipulation.

5. Comprehensive Release. The Releasor releases the Company, its agents, and licensees from any and all claims, demands, damages, and causes of action whatsoever, whether known or unknown, in law or in equity, arising out of or relating to the use of the Media or Likeness, including, but not limited to, claims for: defamation, invasion of privacy, publicity rights, infringement of copyright, moral rights, false endorsement, or misappropriation.

6. Indemnity: The Releasor agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold the Company harmless against any claims or demands (including reasonable attorney's fees) arising out of the Company’s use of the Media or Likeness pursuant to this Agreement.

7. Entire Agreement. This agreement constitutes the sole and complete agreement between Releasor and Company and shall be governed by the laws of the state of California. Releasor is not relying on any other warranty, guarantee, or representation, whether oral or written.

Teoraroa LLC Payment and Membership Policy

Annual Membership Commitment
Teoraroa LLC (“Teoraroa”) operates on an annual membership cycle. By registering with Teoraroa, you are committing to the current season, which concludes on December 31st. . This commitment ensures consistency in our classes, stabilizes our faculty scheduling for classes, workshops and studio space, and allows dancers to progress through choreography, stamina training, and other class material effectively.
Once enrolled, membership levels cannot be downgraded within the current calendar year; all requests for reduced membership must wait until the next annual enrollment cycle.

Annual Showcase
Our Annual Showcase (“Showcase”) is the culmination of the year’s hard work and dedication. While January-February is Teoraroa’s primary open enrollment period, we have rolling registration and welcome new members at any time throughout the year.
To maintain the integrity of the choreography, line placements, and team spirit, participation in the Showcase is limited to dancers who have completed at least six months of their 12-month Mana or Ora membership commitment prior to the date of the Showcase. If a Mana or Ora membership is cancelled or a dancer withdraws prior to fulfilling at least six months of their membership prior to the Showcase they forfeit their eligibility to perform in the Showcase, regardless of prior attendance, costume purchases, or re-registration.

Tuition Payment Terms and Tuition Pricing

Tuition Payment Terms
The annual membership is paid on a monthly basis. Parents/dancers will be required to enroll in autopay through Studio Pro, and such payments will be processed on the 1st of every month. All parents/dancers must maintain a valid credit card or ACH bank account on file for automatic billing.

Late Fees
If the tuition payment cannot be processed by the 3rd of the month, a late fee of $25.00 will be applied to the dancer’s portal. Dancers will not be allowed to attend class until tuition, including late fees, are paid. NO EXCEPTIONS.
If monthly tuition has not been paid by the 15th of the month, the dancer's account will be placed on delinquent status, and they will no longer be considered an active member of Teoraroa. If the dancer wishes to continue their membership, the dancer will be required to re-register with Teoraroa and pay the $50.00 registration fee as well as any past due balances accrued. This includes but is not limited to late fees, tuition, and costumes.

Tuition Pricing
At the time of enrollment, a registration fee of $50 will be applied. To maintain active status, all continuing dancers must renew their membership and pay this fee annually at the start of each new calendar year. This fee will cover your enrollment in Studio Pro, and contribute towards cultural experiences and halau gatherings.

Pūʻai Membership $105.00/ month
Pūʻai—meaning strength—focuses on building strength, a solid foundation, and a deeper connection to one’s body and the Polynesian culture. This membership includes a base-level class offered once a week according to age, open to both seasoned dancers and beginners looking to join our community.

Mana Membership $130-$150.00/ month
Mana focuses on developing consistency, skill, and performance ability. Dancers at this level learn to perform with ease, allowing their Mana to be felt by anyone. This membership meets twice a week and includes your base class according to your age, an upbeat 'Ori Tahiti cardio class, and any required performance rehearsals.

Ora Membership $130-$150.00/ month
Ora—meaning life—is for dancers who want to participate at the competitive performance level. Whether you are just beginning your competitive journey or are already an experienced competitor, there is a place for you! This membership includes your base class according to your age, our 'Ori Tahiti cardio class, and any required competition rehearsals (competition fees applied separately).

For families with 3 or more students enrolled, there is a $15 discount per student.

Please refer to the Estimated First Month Fees Chart in Studio Cloud for an estimated total of the dancer’s first-month expenses, including tuition and mandatory attire. Please note these estimates are subject to change.

Dancer’s Class Attire

To maintain uniformity, all dancers are required to purchase their Pareo and Pa’u directly through Teoraroa. This ensures consistency in fabric, color, and style for all dancers. The Pareu is $20 for Tamahine and $25 for Vahine and Mana Vahine. Pa’u Skirts are made to order and are $80 per dancer.

Payment for attire is due in full at the time the order is placed. For further information please refer to our Teoraroa Handbook here.

Please refer to the Estimated First Month Fees Chart in Studio Cloud for an estimated total of the dancer’s first-month expenses, including tuition and mandatory attire. Please note these estimates are subject to change.

Class Attendance

We maintain a strict No-Refund Policy to ensure the stability of our halau and the commitment of our instructors and dancers.

No Prorating or Refunds: Tuition is based on a full calendar year of instruction and is not prorated for missed classes. No refunds, credits, or deductions will be issued for absences, early withdrawals, or incomplete classes.

Scheduled and Unscheduled Closures: Monthly tuition remains consistent regardless of holidays, studio vacations, special occasions, or seasonal halau closings. Your monthly payment secures the dancer’s permanent placement in their assigned class and covers the comprehensive curriculum provided throughout the year. To view the class schedule, please refer to Studio Pro. For other schedule information, including holidays, events, and studio closures please see our Google calendar, which shall be updated throughout the year if necessary, here. If you do not have access to the Google calendar please reach out via email to teoraroa23@gmail.com.

Absences: Personal absences due to illness, travel, or other commitments do not exempt the dancer from their full monthly tuition obligation. The parent or the dancer must inform Kalene via Studio Pro of any absences. The dancer is also responsible for proactively catching up on missed choreography and material.

Membership Cancellation
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. To withdraw from the annual commitment before December 31st, the following conditions must be met:

Two-Month Notice: The Dancer Membership Cancellation Form (“Cancellation Form”) must be submitted at least 60 days (2 months) prior to your intended final date of attendance. You are responsible for all tuition payments during this 60-day notice period, even if you plan to stop attending classes sooner than the 60-day notice period. You can find the Cancellation Form on the Studio Pro portal.

Cancellation Fee: A one-time cancellation fee of $100 per dancer will be charged at the time the Cancellation Form is submitted.

Re-entry Restriction: To ensure fairness to our committed dancers and instructors, any dancer who cancels their membership mid-year cannot return to dance or participate in any studio events (including the Showcase) for the remainder of that calendar year.

Please note that any fees collected prior to your last day of class are non-refundable and non-transferable, this includes, but is not limited to, costumes or tickets.

Amendments and Modifications
Teoraroa reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to change, modify, add, or remove portions of this Payment and Membership Policy at any time to reflect changes in legal requirements, studio operations, or business necessity.

Notice of Changes: We will provide notice of any material changes by sending an email to the primary address on file, or by posting a notice on or through the Studio Pro portal.

Effective Date: Changes will become effective thirty (30) days after the notice is issued, unless otherwise stated.

Continued Enrollment: Remaining enrolled in classes and submitting monthly tuition payments following a notice of amendment constitutes your acceptance of the revised terms. If you do not agree with the modified terms, you must provide a formal notice of withdrawal as outlined in Section F (“Membership Cancellation”) of this policy.

Privacy Policy
January 2026
At Teoraroa LLC (“Teoraroa”), we value the privacy of our dancers, parents, and staff. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our studio, use our website, or enroll in our Halau.
A. Information We Collect
We collect information that identifies, relates to, or could reasonably be linked to you ("Personal Information"). This includes:
Identifiers: Name, mailing address, email address, phone number, and emergency contact information.
Student Data: Date of birth, gender, and dance level/experience.
Financial Information: Credit card numbers or bank account details (processed securely via third-party providers, including but not limited to Merchant Services powered by Stripe.
Medical Information: Relevant allergies or physical limitations to ensure student safety.
Visual Information: Photos and videos of performances or classes see our Media Release Form.
B. How We Use Your Information
We use your data to provide a safe and high-quality dance experience, specifically for:
Processing registrations and payments.
Communicating schedule changes, studio news, and performance updates.
Ensuring the safety of students during instruction.
Marketing and promotional purposes (with your consent via the Media Release Form).
C. Sharing of Information
We do not sell your personal information. We only share data with third parties in the following circumstances:
Service Providers: Software platforms used for class management, email marketing, or payment processing.
Legal Necessity: If required by law, subpoena, or to protect the safety of our students and staff.
D. Your California Privacy Rights
Under the CCPA, California residents have specific rights regarding their personal information:
Right to Know: You can request a list of the categories and specific pieces of personal information we have collected about you.
Right to Delete: You can request that we delete your personal information, subject to certain legal exceptions (e.g., records we must keep for tax or insurance purposes).
Right to Opt-Out: We do not sell data.
Right to Non-Discrimination: We will not provide a different quality of service or price if you choose to exercise your privacy rights.
E. Data Security
We implement commercially reasonably standard security measures to protect your data. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. We encourage you to use strong passwords for your parent/student portal and notify us immediately of any suspicious activity.
F. Children’s Privacy
Our services are intended for families. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without verifiable parental consent. If we learn we have collected such information without consent, we will delete it immediately.
G. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or California law. We will notify you of any significant changes via email or a notice on our portal.
H. Contact Us
If you have questions about this policy or wish to exercise your California privacy rights, please contact us at:
Teoraroa LLC
Teoraroa23@gmail.com
(510) 849-7272

I. Safety and Injury Prevention
All dancers assume responsibility for their personal safety. The dancer and/or parent or legal guardian of a minor dancer (under the age of 18 years of age) understand that participation in dance instruction, classes, rehearsals, performances, workshops, and all related activities (collectively, the "Activities") involves physical exertion and inherent risks of personal injury, illness, or property damage. These risks include, but are not limited to, muscular strains, sprains, and exposure to or infection from viruses and communicable diseases (e.g., COVID-19). Dancers are required to inform their instructor immediately should they experience pain, dizziness, fatigue, or any unusual physical symptoms during class. Furthermore, students with pre-existing injuries, chronic conditions, or allergies must notify their instructor prior to participating in any activity. Studio instructors will maintain a safe teaching environment, which includes verifying clear floor space, appropriate temperature, and suitable conditions for dance. The studio will maintain a readily accessible, well-stocked First Aid Kit.
II. Incident Reporting and Treatment Procedures
A. Minor Injuries: In the event of a minor injury, such as a small cut, mild sprain, or superficial bruise, the instructor will immediately stop the activity and assess the student's condition. The instructor or a designated staff member will administer appropriate basic first aid, such as cleaning the wound. If the student is a minor, the parent or guardian will be notified via phone call or text message at the earliest opportunity, detailing the incident and the treatment provided.
B. Serious Injuries: For serious injuries, including but not limited to suspected fractures, head injuries, or loss of consciousness, the instructor must ensure the student remains still and the area is secured. The instructor or a designated staff member will immediately activate emergency services (911). Concurrently, a staff member will immediately attempt to contact the parent or guardian using the emergency contact information on file. Should the student be transported to a medical facility, a staff member will remain with the minor student until the parent or guardian arrives, provided this does not compromise the supervision of other students.
III. Medical Information and Contact Protocol
Parents and guardians are entirely responsible for ensuring the studio has accurate and current emergency contact names, phone numbers, and a complete list of any relevant medical conditions, medications, or allergies for their dancer. By completing the studio’s Registration Form and signing the Liability Waiver, the parent or guardian grants studio staff permission to act on their behalf in securing necessary emergency medical treatment, including calling 911, if the parent or guardian cannot be reached immediately. Participation in dance activities carries inherent risks of injury, and by enrolling a student, the parent or guardian acknowledges and accepts these risks as outlined in the studio’s official Liability Waiver.

‘Iaorana!
We are so honored to have you and your family as a part of our pūpū ‘ori/halau.
Purpose of the Handbook
This handbook outlines the procedures, expectations, and guidelines for dancers, musicians, parents, and all members of Teoraroa. It is meant to provide clarity, set shared expectations, and support a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone who is a part of our pūpū ‘ori/halau. By understanding and upholding these expectations, we can ensure that all dancers and drummers can grow, learn, and thrive together.
Mission Statement
Teoraroa is a pūpū ‘ori and halau based in San Ramon, California, under the direction of Kalene Kapua’alaokaleipikake Tanaka Davis. Our mission is to honor and perpetuate Polynesian culture while building a welcoming and supportive space where every dancer feels uplifted, inspired, and finds joy through movement and community.
Teoraroa is committed to honoring Polynesian culture with humility and care. We welcome dancers and drummers of all backgrounds and believe that participation in a pūpū ‘ori/halau comes with a responsibility to learn respectfully, act with integrity, and perpetuate the traditions and protocols that guide the teachings that were passed on to us. Cultural appreciation at Teoraroa is rooted in education, respect, and gratitude for the cultures we represent.
History
Teoraroa was originally founded in 1999 by Kalene's mother, Kumu Moe Tanaka, in Hayward, California. With a deep respect for the Polynesian culture and a vision of bringing hula and ‘Ori Tahiti from Hawai‘i to California, Kumu Moe laid the foundation for what Teoraroa has become today — a halau and pūpū ‘ori that shares a strong bond with each other, united by their responsibility to perpetuate the Polynesian culture.
In 2023, Kalene reopened Teoraroa’s doors, continuing her mother’s legacy. Driven by her passion and love for Hawaiian and Tahitian culture, and a strong commitment to preserving the traditions passed down to her, Kalene now leads Teoraroa by carrying these teachings forward through cultural education and performance.
Communication
Team Communication Platform
Teoraroa uses Studio Pro as our primary communication platform for dancers, musicians, and parents. All studio announcements, schedules, and important information regarding classes, performances, competitions, and group events will be shared through the Studio Pro app.
Please make sure you download the Studio Pro app on your phone and enable notifications from the app to make sure you receive updates.
If you will be absent from class or running late, please let Kalene know through the Studio Pro app as soon as possible.

Classes
Teoraroa offers a variety of class types to support dancers and drummers at different ages and stages of their journey. Class placement is solely based on age and membership level.

Please be sure to review the class types and descriptions below to make sure you are enrolled in the classes that best support your goals and commitments.

Pūʻai Membership
Pūʻai—meaning strength—focuses on building strength, a solid foundation, and a deeper connection to one’s body and the Polynesian culture. This membership includes a base-level class offered once a week according to age, open to both seasoned dancers and beginners looking to join our community.

Mana Membership
Mana focuses on developing consistency, skill, and performance ability. Dancers at this level learn to perform with ease, allowing their Mana to be felt by anyone. This membership meets twice a week and includes your base class according to your age, an upbeat 'Ori Tahiti cardio class, and any required performance rehearsals.

Ora Membership
Ora—meaning life—is for dancers who want to participate at the competitive performance level. Whether you are just beginning your competitive journey or are already an experienced competitor, there is a place for you! This membership includes your base class according to your age, our 'Ori Tahiti cardio class, and any required competition rehearsals (competition fees applied separately).
Billing
Studio Pro is also used to manage tuition, fees, and payments. All families are required to have a valid payment method on file through the app at registration.
Students are auto-charged monthly on the 1st of every month.
If a payment does not go through, you will have until the 3rd of the month to submit your payment without a late fee.
Any balance remaining after the 3rd will be charged a late fee.
If tuition has still not been paid by the 15th of the month, the student will be required to re-register with Teoraroa, pay any outstanding balances, and pay the registration fee to continue their membership.
For our full tuition payment terms and fees, please refer to our Payment and Membership Policy. If you have questions regarding billing or need assistance, contact Kalene or Mario via the Studio Pro app or email at teoraroa23@gmail.com.
Cancellation Policy
Memberships are a 12-month commitment. While January-February is our primary enrollment period, we welcome new members at any time throughout the year on a rolling basis.

Students may cancel their membership at any time (with advance notice as required by the cancellation policy) by submitting a completed cancellation form and the required cancellation fee. For our full cancellation policy terms, please refer to our Payment and Membership Policy.

As a courtesy to your instructors and fellow dancers, please provide Kalene with as much advance notice as possible if you plan to cancel your membership.

Students can re-register anytime by paying the registration fee and paying any outstanding balances. However, please note that if students cancel their membership mid-season, they will no longer be able to participate in showcases, performances, or competitions for the remainder of the dance season.

This policy helps ensure consistency and fairness for all members of our pūpū ‘ori/halau.
Dancer Expectations and Etiquette
Classes and practices are time to learn, grow, and support one another. Please remember that practicing good etiquette during classes shows respect for the culture we are learning, our studio space, and our community.
Class Etiquette
Arrive on time and ready to go. “On time” means on the dance floor and ready to dance at the start of class.
Please try to arrive 15 minutes early to stretch.
Please try to make sure you use the restroom before class starts.
Dancers are expected to be at class or show rehearsals for the full duration. If you are running late or need to leave early, please communicate this with Kalene as soon as possible.
No eating or chewing gum on the dance floor.
All bags and shoes must be brought to the back room to leave room for dancers on the dance floor.
No open water bottles without a lid (no water bottles that can spill)
Come to class dressed in the proper attire. This includes:
PLAIN black shirt
No large, baggy shirts, sweaters, or jackets on the dance floor
No spanx, spandex shorts, or leggings under your skirts
Pareo or pa’u (skirt)
You can put your pareo or pa’u on after you have arrived to the studio before getting on the dance floor.
To maintain uniformity, all dancers are required to purchase their Pareo and Pa’u directly through Teoraroa.
Hair up and out of your face. No claw clips please.
Please practice personal hygiene, including wearing fresh garments and deodorant.
Show respect to all instructors, dancers, musicians, and guests in the room.
It is a Hawaiian custom to greet one another with a kiss on the cheek. If you see someone new to the class, please introduce yourself and greet everyone in this manner.
When we have special guests, please make them feel welcomed by greeting them, introducing yourself, and thanking them for their time and mana’o afterwards.
Please be respectful when instructors are talking and giving directions or corrections by keeping side comments and conversations off the dance floor. You are welcome to ask clarifying questions, but please try to wait until the instructors are finished giving directions to avoid disrupting the class.
Come to class prepared. It is your responsibility to catch up on choreography if you missed a class.
Videos of choreography are posted on the Studio Pro App.
Please make sure you ask your questions before the next class so that we can continue to move forward with lesson plans and choreography.
No substance policy. Please remember that showing up under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substances is not allowed at any practice, event, or halau activity. For everyone’s safety, all participants must arrive sober and able to fully engage. Anyone found impaired may be asked to leave.
Most importantly, bring a positive attitude to every class!
You are not expected to learn choreography right away. Class is a space to learn, try new things, and grow. Do your best, stay patient and open, and be kind to yourself. Remember that learning new movements and choreography takes time and effort, and negative thoughts and self-talk aren’t helpful.
Your instructors are dedicated to helping you become a stronger, more confident dancer, and sometimes that means pushing you outside of your comfort zone. Please be respectful, patient, and attentive — this includes listening without talking back and following directions with a positive attitude. Remember that they are here to support and encourage you every step of the way.
Always dance to impress your Raʻatira, even while at practice! Practice at home when you can, and bring your full energy to class. Building strong habits and stage presence in rehearsal will help you feel more natural and confident while performing.
Items to Bring to Every Class
Dancers should bring these items to every class:
Pareo (Tahitian)
Pa’u (Hula)
Hair tie(s)
Water bottle
Binder with sheet protectors - this will be used to keep all song lyrics, handouts, and resources given to you in one place (including this handbook!). It is your responsibility to maintain your binder.
Implements (if you have any), including pu’ili sticks

Care and Responsibility
Dancers are expected to take care of all personal items and any implements or materials provided to them. This means keeping items clean, cared for and stored properly, and handled with respect. Treating your things with care shows respect for the culture, instructors, and resources of our pūpū ‘ori/halau.
Performances
Performances are one of the most exciting parts of being a part of Teoraroa. They give dancers and drummers the opportunity to showcase their skills, share their love for the culture, and celebrate the hard work put into every class and rehearsal as a team.

At the same time, performances require extra preparation, focus, and attention to detail, because when we perform, we are representing not only a culture but our halau and pūpū ‘ori. This means being on time, prepared, respectful, and supportive of your fellow dancers, musicians, instructors, and the audience. Performances are meant to be fun, but preparation, teamwork, and practice are key to making every show a success.
Arrival & Call Time
Arrive on time. Call times will be provided prior to performance day.
Come prepared with all costumes and accessories outlined in your costume checklist. Checklists will be provided in advance of each performance or event.
Costume Care & Preparation
Prepare your costumes before the day of the performance.
Store costumes in a non-see-through garment bag. Do not use clear garment bags or plastic/trash bags.
Keep accessories, including lei, flowers, and headpieces, in a container to prevent damage.
Costumes must be steamed or ironed prior to arrival. Touch-ups in the dressing room are only possible if time permits.
Remove all jewelry and accessories not part of your costume, including wedding rings, earrings, and other personal items. Leave valuables at home.
If you wear nail polish, it must be clear pink. French tips or colored polish are not allowed.
No eating or drinking anything other than water while in costume.
No chewing gum while in costume or on stage.
Hair & Makeup
Hair should be tightly braided the night before the performance and stay braided when you arrive at the performance venue. Hair should be unbraided and brushed out backstage.
Vahine should arrive at the performance venue with a full face of makeup, including:
Blush
False eyelashes
Red lipstick (can be applied backstage before going on stage)
Tamahine may only wear blush, red lipstick, and mascara.
Backstage Etiquette
Be helpful and attentive. Support your hula sisters whenever you can. Teamwork helps everyone perform their best.
Before going on stage, check the dancer in front of you. Ensure costumes and accessories (lei, necklaces, headpieces) are in place, strings tucked, and small details like lipstick or stray hairs are correct.
Stay focused, helpful, and attentive until your turn to perform. If you are ready before others, use that time to assist your hula sisters. Stay focused and helpful to others around you until your turn to perform.
Pick up after yourself in the dressing area and make sure the entire area is clean before leaving the venue (not just your area).
Show aloha and respect to all helpers and volunteers.
On Stage Presence
Remember: if you can see the audience, they can see you! Stay focused and maintain your posture and poise before stepping on stage.
Do not fidget with hair, costume, or accessories while visible to the audience.
Your whole body tells a story. Express your mana and emotions through your hands, eyes, lips, smile, and facial expressions.
Most importantly, smile and have fun — share your joy and mana with the audience!
Representation of Teoraroa
Teoraroa is committed to upholding respect for the greater dance and cultural community.
When attending or participating in performances or public events, remember that you are representing Teoraroa as a whole. Please maintain professionalism, respect, and follow performance protocols on and off stage.
Speaking negatively about other groups, dancers, or musicians - whether at performances, competitions, or online - is not acceptable. We ask all students to show courtesy and aloha toward other groups and performers at all times. Respecting others reflects our values and honors the culture we represent.
No substance policy. Please remember that showing up under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substances is not allowed at any practice, event, or halau activity. For everyone’s safety, all participants must arrive sober and able to fully engage. Anyone found impaired may be asked to leave.
Competitions
‘Ori Tahiti competition classes are intended for dancers who are ready for an advanced level of training and commitment. Because participating in competitions requires additional time, skill, and responsibility, participation in competitions is by invitation or audition only. All dancers must demonstrate consistent attendance, skill, and readiness to represent Teoraroa in a competitive setting.
While participating in competitions is by invitation or audition only, competition classes are open to all dancers, including beginners who are interested in competing or those working toward a competitive level. These classes focus on developing skills, consistency, stage presence, and stamina, helping dancers prepare for future competition opportunities.
Types of Competitions
Dancers may participate in group competitions or solo competitions. Both types of competitions are by invitation or audition only:
Group Competitions: Dancers perform choreography together as a team. Group competitions require a significant time commitment, including extra rehearsals, meetings, and costume-making time outside of regular classes.


Solo Competitions: Dancers are responsible for creating their own choreography, costumes, mastering technique, memorizing pehe (beats), and stage presence, with guidance and support from their instructors. Solos require more independent work, self-discipline, and training.
Expectations for Competitive Dancers
You must know all your ‘Ori Tahiti basic steps to be eligible to compete.
You must know your pehe (basic beats) to enter solo competitions. Beat comprehension is required to be able to participate in freestyle elimination rounds, which are a required part of every solo competition.
Competitions require additional time and financial commitments outside of regular classes, including extra rehearsals and preparation time, travel expenses, costume expenses, and competition fees.
Dancers are expected to maintain discipline, focus, and respect for instructors, fellow dancers, and other competitors and groups. Remember that your behavior at performances and competitions reflects our whole group. Be kind, respectful, and encouraging to fellow dancers, musicians, and helpers (including those from other groups).
Remember that competitions are not only about awards; they are a chance to challenge yourself, grow as a dancer, and proudly represent Teoraroa. While participation requires extra commitment, it also provides an incredible opportunity to showcase your skills, build confidence, and celebrate Tahitian culture on stage.