Sharing the Joy of Dance: 'BYU Living Legends' Group Concludes New Zealand, French Polynesia Tour

The Brigham Young University "Living Legends" performing group successfully concluded its tour of New Zealand and French Polynesia on 19 May. The group performed before enthusiastic and appreciative audiences in both countries. 

The Living Legends, who derive their name from a desire to preserve the cultural lives of their ancestors, opened their tour in Auckland 5 May, performing two shows there before moving on for two performances in Hamilton and two more in Napier, before wrapping up the New Zealand portion of their tour with a final show in Wellington. 

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After their final appearance in the capital city, they flew off to French Polynesia for a show in Mataiea, two performances in Papeete, and their final tour event at Opunohu, Moorea. 

Along the way they performed civic outreach activities, conducted workshops with schools and universities, and held devotionals in several cities. 

“I have enjoyed this tour, especially talking to the kids we have met along the way,” said Fernando Ramos, a third year BYU student from Boliva. 

  “The people have been so wonderful, and we’ve enjoyed sharing both our cultures and our dancing with them.” 

“I have many Tongan relatives in Aotearoa New Zealand, and I learned so much more about my Māori ancestry that comes from the tribe of Ngati Awa and the sub-tribe of Te Tawera,” said newly graduated group member Lawrence Vahanoa ‘I Funga’atele Brown.  

“I am grateful and blessed because of the unexpected turns in life that ultimately led me to powerful life-changing experiences with this group and this tour,” Brown said. 

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Sophomore dancer Sage Tausalaotapusalaia Purcell, who has been dancing since she was five years old, said the tour gave her a chance to connect with her native Samoan culture more fully. “Through dance I am able to build aspecial bond with others in the community and most importantly my ancestors,” she said. 

“I have many relatives that moved to New Zealand from Samoa, including my great grandmother,” she explained. “I was so grateful to be able to come here, especially to perform in Hawke’s Bay where she is buried.” 

The Living Legends celebrate the native cultural heritages of North, Central and South America, and the South Pacific, in a vibrant spectacle of energy, music, regalia, and dance. As they take the stage, 30 talented performers capture the rhythms of Polynesia, portray the fascinating legends of Native American people, and dazzle the senses with the energy of Latin America. 

Both the lavish regalia and the intricate choreography are authentic representations of the cultures highlighted. Jaime Kalama-Wood is the troupe’s artistic director. 

The Living Legends are a production of the Department of Dance in the College of Fine Arts and Commuications at Brigham Young University, located in Provo, Utah, USA.

BYU is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.