2024 edition

Heiva Potelle, a passionate and talented fire dancer, has been practicing this art since 1999. Originally from Tahiti, he discovered and perfected his talent within the Tamariki Poerani group, where he learned the basics of this spectacular discipline. Driven by his love for traditional dance and fire arts, Heiva quickly evolved his style by integrating performances with the Fenua group and collaborating with several renowned groups such as Les Grands Ballets de Tahiti, Hei Tahiti, Heikuranui, and Ori I Tahiti.

An internationally renowned artist

In 2010 and 2012, he had the opportunity to work in an amusement park in Japan, an experience that enriched his art and his vision of the show. He regularly competes in prestigious competitions, including the famous World Fireknife Dance Championship in Hawaii, where he made his debut in 1999 and competed every year until 2016.

Among his many successes, Heiva has distinguished himself several times at the local Te Ahi Nui competition, winning first place in 2005, 2007, 2009, 2014 and 2015. In 2008, he obtained a third place in duet at the world championship with his partner Dana Teai. He was also a member of the Te Ahi Nui competition jury between 2010 and 2013, bringing his expertise and experience to new generations.

A family legacy

Heiva attributes his passion and mastery of fire dancing to his late uncle, Isaac, an exceptional artist who toured the world for three years, notably with the prestigious Cirque du Soleil troupe, in the show Alegría. It was Isaac who helped Heiva perfect his posture, his stage attitude and transform his juggling into a real dance with fire knives.

Thanks to his commitment and dedication, Heiva Potelle today embodies a unique blend of Polynesian tradition and artistic innovation. He continues to amaze spectators with his technical mastery and energy on stage, making the art of fire dancing shine throughout the world.

Mauruuru roa, Heiva, for keeping this tradition alive and evolving with such passion and talent.

Dana Teai, 36 years old, is an emblematic figure of fire dancing in French Polynesia. Originally from Faa’a, he carries within him a strong family heritage: his father, Léon Teai, is the president of the TE TAMA AHI association, recognized for having won the very first fire dancing competition in French Polynesia in 1999.

From the age of 9, Dana immersed himself in the world of this spectacular art, combining discipline, tradition and artistic expression. At only 11 years old, he took his first notable steps by winning a title in the espoir category. The rest of his career is marked by impressive victories that testify to his exceptional talent and commitment.

In 2004, at the age of 16, he reached the professional 2 fires category, where he won his first title of champion of Polynesia. A year later, in 2005, he proudly represented his island at the World Fire Dance Championship, placing among the top 9 participants.

Dana continued his rise by becoming champion in the 16-21 age category in 2006, and again champion of Polynesia in 2008. During the same championship, he teamed up with Heiva Teai, and the duo won an impressive 3rd place at the world level. In 2012, Dana once again confirmed his mastery and supremacy by winning a new title of champion of Polynesia.

Ambassador of fire dance, Dana Teai embodies not only performance, but also the transmission of traditional know-how deeply rooted in Polynesian culture. Throughout his career, he perpetuates the spirit of competition and excellence instilled by his father and inspires younger generations to embrace this unique discipline.