EXPERIENCE THE RICHNESS OF FIJIAN CULTURE ON YOUR FIJI ISLAND VACATION
As soon as you step foot on Royal Davui, apart from the majestic beauty that surrounds you on your Fijian Island getaway, you will instantly notice two things. The first is the exceptional warmth and hospitality you are greeted with by your local Fijian hosts. The second is the inclusion of traditional song and dance at every turn. Music, song and dance is an integral component of Fijian culture.
The Fijian people are renowned for both their friendliness and their love of traditional dance and song. It is a part of everyday life in Fiji and is an experience that will enrich your stay and linger in your heart. The traditional song and dance of the Fijian Islands is the Meke.
THE MEKE
The Meke is a traditional Fijian dance and is a combination of dance and storytelling through song. It embraces traditional song and dance to conjure up the legends, spirits, history and love stories found throughout Fiji. There are many different types of the Meke, from the strong and intimidating spear dance by the men through to a gentle and feminine fan dance by the women or a combined seated dance. It is performed on special occasions but is a regular sight you will behold whilst on your Fiji holiday.
MEKE DRESS
The traditional Fijian dress worn throughout the Meke performances are a sight to behold in their own right. The men don traditional warrior costume and the females wear traditional clothing, generally a sulu (sarong) with flower garlands.
VOCAL & DANCE ROLES IN THE MEKE
Both men and women perform the Meke but with very different roles. The men take centre stage with bold, strong and powerful, warrior-like movements. The women take a more feminine and graceful role, with soft and fluid movements. There are also two groups within the Meke with different roles. The Vakatara (orchestra) sit on the ground chat and sing and provide the background music for the Matana (dancers).
FIJIAN INSTRUMENTS
Percussion instruments play a large role in Fijian song and dance. At a performance you will see and hear hardwood gongs, bamboo tubes and beating sticks. Interspersed with the musical instruments are the Fijian dance items including spears and fans. They all add to the spectacle. It is an event you will not want to miss.
AUDIENCE INVOLVEMENT AT THE MEKE
As with all activities in Fiji, the Meke singers and dancers encourage audience involvement. Members of the audience will be encouraged to join the dancers on stage and embrace the dance together.
At Royal Davui, you will see song and dance on a daily basis. From the moment we welcome you to the Island to evening Meke performances. You will see various instruments scattered across the Island and we welcome our gusts to enjoy them. Check the activity timetable for scheduled performance days and times.
