From Thursday, March 5, through Saturday, March 7, the Southern Utah University Pacific Islander Student Association hosted its annual Polynesian Showcase in the Auditorium Theatre. This year’s theme was One Root, Many Islands: A Celebration of Culture, Connection & Kava performance.
The performance showcased the dance and storytelling talents of students from PISA throughout many different islands. These islands included dances, stories and cultures of Hawai’i, Tonga, Tahiti, Fiji, New Zealand and Samoa. Samuel A’asa II, performing to represent the Samoan culture, explained the purpose of the event.
“It’s an opportunity to represent our culture and bring everyone in,” said A’asa II.
PISA had been preparing for this performance since January of 2026, giving them only two months to train.
“The first day was rough, but after practicing together, it’s become really great,” added A’asa II.
Besides the several practices, many student performers described what an honor it was to represent their families and cultures. Keita Wolfgramm represented the Tongan culture through a solo piece called the Tau`olunga.
“It was a full circle kind of moment,” said Wolfgramm. “Because my dad is Tongan and it is a part of his culture, it was an honor to represent my family.”
Lahela Hoopii had some high praises for the event as well. She has been doing the showcase for four years now and has been representing Hawai’i.
“It was a privilege to showcase cultures. I love being around everyone, having fun and being a family,” said Hoopii. “It was very challenging and overwhelming at first, but thanks to the Kumu’s, I’ve found a lot of growth, not just in dance, but as a person too.”
She highlighted some of the dances that are very well known on the island, such as the Kahiko, a traditional dance using the Hawaiian percussion instrument, called the Ipu. Through her performance, Hoopii has the chance to tell stories that date back to the very beginning of Hawaiian culture.
“The show brings a sense of gratitude for us because the performance is not just for Pacific Islanders, but the Palangi (Non-Islanders), as well,” said Veni and Aidarene Kioa, parents in attendance. “It’s a way to bring people in and let them be a part of our family.”
The annual PISA showcase is a special way to invite foreigners, friends and family to come together through a sample of various aspects of the Pacific Islands.
In fact, Dylan Marrotte, performer, explained how each culture is different in their own ways. While New Zealand is more battle and voice oriented, using dances such as the Haka, the island of Fiji is very focused on getting the crowd involved through dance and music.
After the showcase, people left feeling proud. The showcase gives students a chance to work on a project as a collective to build unity within the community.
To know more about PISA, follow the association on Instagram and Facebook.
Author: Mitch Wilson
Editor: Fanny Felixine
Photos courtesy of SUU
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