Students at UC High can join the Tahitian Club, a club in which one of their goals is to form bonds and be connected to their school by performing at school events.
Tahitian dance originates from the Polynesian Islands, more specifically the Islands of Tahiti. It is fast paced with fast drum beats and includes a lot of hip movement. According to a website for educators and students, “Tahitian dancing was used to enthrall a lover, to challenge an enemy, to worship a god, and even for prayer. Each dance was unique, but all of them were important to the people and their way of life” (study.com).
“It’s not like a sport where you have to try out. It’s a learning experience and a community of people who enjoy doing this together,” said Tahitian Co-captain Senior Valeria Serrano. “You come, you practice with us, and you learn.”
“I like that since I’m captain, I’m not in charge, but I help create bonds,” said Serrano.
“We practice twice a week for an hour; then we practice the whole week before a performance for two hours a day to perfect and correct,” said Serrano.
“Within about three weeks, the girls have the choreography down. It’s just about perfecting it and remembering it,” said Serrano.
“The club’s budget and profit are used for stuff like the costumes, pot lucks, and merchandise for the team that we want to design and make,” said Serrano. “Our club’s budget makes sure that the girls won’t have to pay for items like costumes and accessories,” she explained.
“It’s a community of girls who enjoy doing this one thing together,” said Tahitian Member Senior Leslie Nuñez. “Participants don’t need to know how to do it, because we all learn together.”
“It’s a good club to join if you’re looking to make friendships and have fun together in a little community at UC,” said Nuñez.
“My favorite part of being in Tahitian is bonding with all the girls. I look forward to each of our meetings as they are always filled with jokes and laughter. The group never fails to make me smile,” said Tahitian Member Senior Stephanie Pulido. “My favorite part of being in Tahitian is being able to create something to showcase to the school and create memories with my girls,” said Tahitian Co-captain Senior Hannah Gonzalez.