The Polynesian Cultural Center Kicks Off Its 30th Annual World Fireknife Competition With The Juniors And Intermediate Divisions

May 4, 2022 – Lā‘ie, Hawai‘i – Tonight at the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC), the future of fireknife dancing – 43 boys and girls ranging from ages six to 17 – commanded the stage at the 2023 World Fireknife Championship.

The winner of the World Fireknife Championship’s Junior Division (ages 6-11) is Kalivati “KJ” Volavola of Kahuku. Cyson Lanikaula Woodward of Kapa‘a, Kaua‘i took the trophy for the Intermediate Division (ages 12-17).

All 43 competitors beautifully showcased how this iconic Samoan tradition continues to live on with their performances. As they performed their intricately choreographed routines, their skills in twirling, hurling and swinging fireknives showed off their strength, leaving everyone in the audience mesmerized.

Thirteen competitors displayed skills way beyond their years in the Junior Division and 30 competitors in the Intermediate Division showed that some of them will soon be graduating to the elite men’s and women’s divisions in future years.

All the competitors received prize packages along with the top three in each division who were presented with special fireknife-designed trophies.

Results: Junior Division (ages 6-11)

1st Place: Kalivati “KJ” Volavola, Kahuku, HI 
2nd Place: Mosese Volavola, Lā‘ie
3rd Place: King Jira Tanuvasa, Ewa Beach 

Results: Intermediate Division (ages 12-17) 

1st Place: Cyson Lanikaula Woodward, Kapa‘a, Kaua‘i
2nd Place: Haukea Moua, Tahiti
3rd Place: Akilei Malo, Orlando, FL 

Celebrating its 30th year, the 2023 World Fireknife Championship is taking place over three nights, May 3, 10 and 11, with competitors showcasing their talents in four divisions, the Junior, Intermediate, Women’s and Men’s Divisions.

The World Fireknife Championship was established by the Polynesian Cultural Center in 1993 to showcase this proud Samoan tradition and encourage future generations to perpetuate this amazing combination of artistry, acrobatics, skill and bravery. Fireknife dancing is rooted in the Samoan ailao, a warrior knife dance traditionally performed before battle utilizing the nifo oti, or “tooth of death.”

“This year’s World Fireknife Championship is very special to us as we’re not only celebrating 30 years of skill and athleticism featuring the cultural heritage of Samoa in this competition but we’re also celebrating the Polynesian Cultural Center’s 60th anniversary,” said Delsa Moe, Vice President of Cultural Presentations. “We’re proud to showcase the next generation of fireknife dancers as they

continue to carry on this Samoan tradition.” Moe added, “We can’t wait to see how the rest of the competition unfolds.”

For more information about the World Fireknife Championship, visit www.worldfireknife.com.

For information about the Polynesian Cultural Center or to make reservations, visit www.polynesia.com, or call (800) 367-7060. In Hawai‘i, call 293-3333. To receive updates, event invitations and promotions, join the ʻOhana Club for free here.

Photo and Video Courtesy: Polynesian Cultural Center 
Link to download: www.dropbox.com/sh/wzrv0jioemhqarv/AAA4OA3yufUOtA8PTm3oatuBa?dl=0 

ABOUT POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER
Located on O‘ahu’s beautiful North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is the only cultural attraction of its kind in the world and a favorite of both locals and visitors to Hawai‘i. An engaging, interactive celebration showcasing the people, culture, arts and crafts of Polynesia, the PCC has entertained millions of visitors from around the world since opening in 1963. A non-profit organization, 100 percent of PCC’s revenue goes to daily operations and to support the education of its student-employees from neighboring Brigham Young University-Hawaii. For more information, visit www.Polynesia.com 

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