Dance and music take us back in history and time, and one of the things that called our attention the most in the island was exactly the Rapa Nui music. They talk about love, nature and war spirits.

Last weekend, we had the privilege of watching a beautiful presentation. The ritual began with a cultural body paint of the dancers and musicians. “Takoma” painting is made with an clay-made ink.

Of all dances, one of the main is Sau-Sau. Of Samoan origin, it was adapted to the Rapa Nui language and became very popular in the island’s celebrations. Joyful and sensual, it is performed in pairs that go toward and forward. The moves are hypnotizing and always danced with a happy song. Women typically wear plumes to dance Sau-Sau.

Hoko is another old cultural performance in Rapa Nui – we can sa it is a war dance! It is very intense and represents the vibrance of the native people. The expressions and moves show strength and agility.

In the Rapa Nui culture, there’s also Ula Ula and Tamuré, both oh Haitian origin. Ula has foot, hand and hip circular moves. Tamuré is faster and more agile, with strength and acrobatics.

Besides dances, Kai Kai is another traditional artistic expression. It mixes stories, singing and playing. Women form different shapes with an elastic while telling old stories and tales.

Watching these beautiful performances by the sunset was pure magic. At each ukulele chord and Rapa Nui chant, we were transported to the past, feeling the island’s magnetism.