The Samoan Fire Knife Dance is a breathtaking performance that visitors often look forward to when attending a luau. However, there is a lot more to this ritual than just a spectacular dance as it comes from centuries of tradition and is infused with lots of old-time lore and even personalization by performers.
It’s important to mention, though, that the fire knife dance is not at all a Hawaiian dance, and therefore is NOT showcased at the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau because we’re committed to keeping our shows
Where is the Fire Knife Dance from?
The Samoan fire knife dance originated in the South Pacific Island of Samoa and it was originally a war dance. The knife used in its performance even today is a traditional implementation of the ceremonial dances that came into prominence somewhere between 900 and 1200 AD, according to most Polynesian historians.
In ancient times, the dance consisted of warrior gestures of victory in battle being displayed using a nifo oti (translated as “deadly tooth”), which was a wooden hand-held sword or club with boar tusks or shark teeth used to maim or injure enemies.
The origin of the fire knife dance known today goes back to the ailao, which eventually became a traditional way for Samoan warriors to demonstrate their battle prowess with the performance of artful and complex movements. In its earliest days, this choreography was performed with a war club called anava, and some women —such as daughters of high chiefs— have been said to have taken part at some point.
As warfare faded and became history, the Samoan war dance survived and the nifo oti became an important element in the Samoan Taʻalolo or gift-giving procession that honors special guests. Custom now demands in most formal occasions that the ornately decorated manaia (or prince) and Taupo (or princess) should lead taʻalolo processions, each carrying and twirling the nifo oti. This all keeps the tradition alive.
The Samoan Knife Dance Today
Back in the day, the fire dance was also performed to rhythmic chants or songs, but today that tradition has been mostly replaced with vigorous drumming on a variety of ancient and modern instruments which contribute to its popularity with most modern travelers. It is an energizing spectacle to witness, especially when there are more risky variations added to the dance by each of the performers.
The knife dance as it is best known nowadays —also called Siva Afi (siva means dance and afi means fire) or Ailao Afi— combines complicated acrobatics with twirling metal knives covered with cotton towels that are set on fire during the performance.
Not many know that it was Uluao Letuli, a performer from American Samoa, who in 1946 added fire to the nifo oti. He is considered the father of the modern fire knife dance. He was also given the nickname “Freddie” because he could dance like Fred Astaire, so he had the skills needed to handle this new addition while keeping up the rest of the show. This revitalized the tradition and raised the bar for future performers.
The idea is said to have come to him while he was people-watching in San Francisco. Freddie was inspired by a Hindu fire eater and his baton-twirling daughter and decided to add fire to the knife dance routine. This dramatically increased the level of courage and skill required to perform an already difficult dance, making it even more impressive and compelling to watch. This new and exciting dance was an immediate hit, so Chief Letuli went on to perform it for many years after that.
Nowadays, the expectation of seeing fire knife dances in luaus comes from the close familial ties between Polynesian and Samoan tribes and some homogenization of these dances as part of many islands’ cultures, but that does not mean they are part of all of our authentic traditions.
Where Can Fire Knife Dances Be Enjoyed?
Fire knife dance is usually reserved for the spectacular finale of those luaus where they’re performed. It’s considered to add some sizzle to celebrations and because the tradition has been passed down for generations, it’s rare to see a dance performance that’s the same as another, keeping things interesting, no matter how many luaus someone attends.
There’s something about the combination of music, athletic skills, and the dance of fire that’s mesmerizing to most. And in some shows, they even add extra props to keep the audience on their toes.
We will be forever thankful to Freddie Letuli for his immense contribution to the exciting Samoan Fire knife dance tradition which can be enjoyed in other Polynesian shows while our maui luau continues its own tradition of presenting only an authentic Hawaiian luau for all visitors to enjoy.
Is There a Hawaiian Fire Knife Dance At All?
No, although the traditional Hawaiian Hula dance is often performed along with fire knife dances during tourist shows, fueling the confusion.
Both dances are significantly different, even more than most people expect, not only because of the movements and music, but also due to the very distinct origins and meanings.
While the fire knife dance is a war dance, the traditional Hula dance is believed to have begun as a worship ritual dance to recognize genealogy, honor ruling chiefs, and honor gods like Pelé, the goddess of fire. It is said that the goddess Laka is the keeper of the dance now and that explains why this is the name most often heard when speaking about modern Hula dancing, if you’ve heard about the history of tradition.
However, the definitive origins of the traditional hula dance are somewhat still disputed as there are several local legends depicting possible different origins. One thing is certain, though: They are all magical stories, just like the dance itself!
Hula wasn’t originally performed to entertain, but to preserve culture and stories. For this reason, unlike fire knife dancing, hula variations and modifications were discouraged and dancers were expected to teach it in the same way they had learned it themselves.
Additionally, not all Hula dances are created equal nowadays. There are two main types of Hula dance still performed today, which are the hula kahiko (the ancient) and the hula auana (the modern), and while they are very different, they are both stunningly beautiful and unique.
What are the traditional dances performed at Old Lahainā Lūʻau?
The Old Lahainā Lūʻau show includes traditional hula dance (kahiko), modern hula dance (auana), and Tahitian dances. There are usually multiple performances throughout the evening, so visitors can enjoy different styles, costumes, and stories told through dance. The Tahitian dance in the show recognizes the migration of the first Hawaiian settlers who came from the Marquesas and Society Islands. If it’s at the top of your list to see a fire knife dance show, be sure to confirm it will appear in the luau you are attending.
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Posted on February 12, 2022 by Inquire Design
You want to wear the right combination of confidence and comfort.
Maui luaus are special events for people of all ages and cultures, which means that you want to dress comfortably and appropriately for the occasion. There is no one right way to dress at luaus; rather, it’s about wearing clothes that represent the Hawaiian culture while also being appropriate for the event (leave the malo and pa’u to the dancers). There aren’t a lot of clothing choices when it comes to these parties, so just make sure you’re comfortable enough to have a good time in and that your outfit will look great against a sunset.
Hawaiian attire is always the way to go, which usually includes muumuu dresses, skirts, leis (which you’ll get as you enter most Maui luaus), aloha shirts, shorts, and slippahs (or flip-flops). Any of these choices represents the islands well! Some men like to wear souvenir shirts from Maui if there aren’t a lot of aloha shirts available. The only thing we recommend avoiding would be beach clothes (swimsuits are meant for the daytime).
Traditional Attire
What would people wear to a luau back in the day?
Traditional luau parties in ancient Hawaii were attended only by men, as men and women did not eat together. At these traditional feasts, the attire was a malo (loin cloth) made from kapa adorned with other items from nature to represent their rich culture.
With the introduction of clothing, as we know today, in 1776 when Captain Cook arrived at these islands, modern styles of clothing were introduced and worn to luaus.
At Old Lāhainā Lūʻau, traditional Hawaiian luau outfits are worn by our staff and hula dancers to provide authenticity to Hawaiian traditions. These stunning outfits represent what ancient Hawaiians wore throughout history.
Luau Outfits for Guys
Get buttoned up in a nice new aloha shirt or flaunt a local tee.
Guys tend to dress up a little more than the ladies at a luau, which feels like the opposite of the usual. At Maui luaus, a guy’s clothing can be anything from khakis and a polo to Bermuda shorts and an Aloha, or Hawaiian shirt. Everyone knows that Hawaii is HOT and pants are not a requirement for this event, though some Maui luaus have a more formal vibe.
Even long board shorts and a Maui t-shirt are acceptable to wear for an informal and fun evening by the ocean. Don’t forget to wear your “slippahs,” too! Olukai and other brands offer some comfy leather options with great arch support. A lot of people on-island call these their “going-out slippahs” and don’t wear them to the beach.
If you want to accessorize, puka shell or Maui hook necklaces are popular jewelry choices for men. You can find beautiful pieces carved from cow bone or whalebone on Front Street in Lahaina.
Shopping Options: Just wander through any clothing store and you’re bound to find an aloha shirt you like. For a bargain hunt, check out the used shirts at a local thrift shop or the Maui Swap Meet that happens every Saturday morning.
Luau Outfit for Ladies
Rock a dress, shorts or skirt and shirt or whatever makes you feel good.
The traditional luau outfit for ladies includes a dress with beautiful Hawaiian patterns – from flowers to palm trees, or more simple designs. For ladies, strapless dresses or shirts with skirts are appropriate attire for a regular luau. For a more formal luau, a more fitted dress with sleeves and more traditional patterns is an ideal choice.
You’ll be adorned with a beautiful, fresh flower lei when you get here, but know that it’s also common to wear a flower behind your ear. If you wear the flower on the right side, it means you’re looking and if you wear it on the left, it means you’re taken. It’s a great way to show you’re single and ready to mingle without shouting it to the world!
When it comes to shoes – use comfort as your tool to make your choice! Stilettos are a no-no since most Hawaiian luau parties take place on grass, sand, or dirt. Wear your flip-flops (“slippahs”) or some cute flat sandal or wedges. You’ll be especially grateful you wore sturdy shoes after a couple of fruity drinks.
Shopping Options: A great resource to find these clothes would be Mahina in Paia (which also has Luau outfits for kids). Other shopping options are Maui’s Best in Lahaina and Ross.
Luau Outfits for Kids
Cute matchy-matchy or comfy-comfy?
The number one rule for kids is to make sure they are comfortable. You don’t want to be fussing all night with your child’s clothes that are “too ugly/tight/stiff/etc.” Too loose is an issue, too, because they could get caught by a stray palm tree or bush. Be sure to have your kids try their outfits on ahead of time to ensure there won’t be any complaints.
One of the sweetest options we see is a whole family wearing matching aloha print outfits. Dad in a shirt, mom in a dress, and the kids beaming right beside in the same print. And, bonus, you can use your Hawaiian luau photo as your holiday card!
At Maui luaus, little boys usually wear t-shirts or aloha printed shirts, shorts, and sandals to complement their outfits. You can find any of these kid’s clothing at any store on the island that sells clothes, like Walmart, Target, and Ross.
How dressed up do you want to get?
Nobody likes to feel over—or underdressed for a party.
Not sure how formal your Hawaiian luau is? Check out photos of previous guests on the luau Yelp page, website, or social media. You can usually find photos of people having a great time and usually wearing bright, cheerful prints. There are some more formal events, however, so if you’re not sure, you can always call them up and ask how formal the luau is.
CASUAL
The more low-key Maui luaus tend to be ok with bikini tops and board shorts. Strapless or sleeveless dresses are always welcome, and slippahs are a requirement (well, not really, but they’re very common)! Even the most formal luaus won’t be stiletto-friendly!
SEMI-FORMAL
A slightly more dressed-up version of a luau outfit for ladies would be a dress with sleeves, a skirt and top combo, or for a postcard-worthy picture, you can wear matching outfits for the whole family. There’s no such thing as a “formal” Hawaiian luau since it’s really just one big party. Try not to stress about the way you dress and just have fun!
We hope you found this guide helpful in planning your perfect outfit for a night of eating Hawaiian food, listening to soothing music, and watching the history of the islands take place on stage. At Old Lāhainā Lūʻau, our luaus are usually held daily during sunset hours, making for a stunning show and breathtaking photo opportunities for the whole family in their Hawaiian luau outfits. We are excited to host you and your family for a night you won’t soon forget. Old Lāhainā Lūʻau prides itself on Maui-style entertainment and onolicious (delicious) cuisine while keeping a strong focus on Hawaiian culture.