Foloi Fidow Vaiouga, a senior from Samoa majoring in social work and vice president of the Samoan Club, said she hopes the music and dancing performed at Culture Night reminded those with Samoan heritage who they are.
“Wherever in the world you are, and whether you’re half, some, or full Samoan, you’ll know who you are.”
Tifaga Dennis Faanunu, a junior from Samoa majoring in IT, said the entrance song is a sacred piece belonging to his family and “includes values of us not wanting to be defeated or looked down on.”
He said the song also expresses love for family, hard work and effort, love and respect, and “the continuous traditions taught to all generations.”
Vaiouga said history and ancestry is shared in the song, as well as the responsibilities of the people within their village. She said the graceful lyrics and upbeat rhythm emphasize “the Samoan way.”
The Maulu’ulu song was next, which is one of the “slow songs,” usually performed by women, Vaiouga explained. However, this year, both men and women danced during it. She said the Maulu’ulu song is meant to showcase what their community values and principles have been since childhood. “The female knows where to stand, her responsibility in the house, outside of the house, and the community-even the meals.” The song also talks of the respect expected to be given, whether it be to their elders, their culture, or the hierarchy, Vaiouga said. She shared it is an important value within their community that is expressed within the song.
The Sasa song and dance were also performed by both men and women and is done while sitting, kneeling, or standing, Vaiouga explained.
Levi Fuaga, a senior majoring in English from Honolulu, Hawaii, who is a member of the Samoa Club said the music during the Sasa is unique. “There’s so much energy that goes into it. … It’s a kind of energy you don’t get to express every day.”
According to Vaiouga, “Every movement of this performance indicates to us your choice back home,” whether it be doing your chores, outside activities, cooking, or other movements. They are all portrayed to create the song for this dance, shared Vaiouga. •