From Tahiti to Las Vegas: Dance school preserves culture across generations

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The island culture runs deep in Las Vegas. For many in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, it’s important to keep traditions alive.

At Pupu Ori Te Nati, different generations are learning the art and meaning of Tahitian dance. “Te Nati” translates to “the link” of past, community, and identity.

“We have so many hand motions,” Caseylynn Silang told 8 News Now. “You can pick your flower, you can smell your flower.”

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Silang’s students call her “Ate,” a term of respect in the Philippines that means big sister.

“I’ve grown up with these kids,” Silang said.

Silang started as a student at Pupu Ori Te Nati and is now leading the next generation of Tahitian dancers as a teacher.

1. The island culture runs deep in Las Vegas. For many in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, it’s important to keep traditions alive. (KLAS)

2. The island culture runs deep in Las Vegas. For many in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, it’s important to keep traditions alive. (KLAS)

3. The island culture runs deep in Las Vegas. For many in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, it’s important to keep traditions alive. (KLAS)

“A lot of my students, they’ve been here since I moved here, so 18 years,” Julie Manea Charles said. “I just love the family dynamic.”

Charles, the founder of Pupu Ori Te Nati, was born and raised in Tahiti. She came to Las Vegas to teach classes and ended up starting a family and founding the dance school.

“It’s crazy, I would’ve never thought on my small island, when I grew up, that I would end up in Las Vegas,” Charles said.

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The studio holds classes for various ages and has live musicians. Charles’ students call her “Auntie Julie.”

“I just want to bring the real culture and teach them language, drumming,” she said. “It’s a safe place for everybody.”

“I’m so grateful to Auntie Julie because she brings a piece of her home to Las Vegas,” Silang said. “It’s so special.”

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