Fua’amotu village perform a Ma’ulu’ulu for His Majesty King George Tupou V

Clips of Fua’amotu Village performing a Ma’ulu’ulu called the “Tafi” for King George Tupou V. The literal translation of this Tongan Dance “Tafi” is “to sweep”, and traditionally it is the ceremonial setting of the stage for the major royal entertainments to follow. The Tafi is usually performed sitting down. The high ranking dancer is the vahenga who is usually dressed differently from the other performers, and sits at the centre of the first row. The movements are figurative and create an abstract picture to which a number of meanings can be assigned. The preliminary section of hand movements and vigorous drum beating without singing is to capture the attention of the spectators before the main composition begins. The performers are from the town of Fua’amotu, which is part of the estates of the Noble Tungi, Head of the Tu’i Ha’atakalaua Dynasty, at the Eastern side of Tongatapu. The lyrics were composed by Ma’u Kakala, as a special tribute to the Coronation of His Majesty King George Tupou V. The vahenga is the Hon. Salote Maumautaimi Haim Hadessah Be Yardena Alainuanua Tuku’aho. Enjoy:-)