Fire-Knife

Hale Motuapuaka

Hale Motuapuaka was born in Oahu, Hawaii, and was raised in Polynesian entertainment from a very young age. His parents toured around the world with luau shows, instilling in him a deep history in Polynesian dancing. He holds the title of being the world's first Grand Slam champion, winning in all three divisions. His dedication to his craft has led him to perform for some of the biggest productions in Polynesian entertainment, including renowned companies such as Malu Productions, Mauka Warriors luau, Tihati Productions, and touring shows worldwide including Māohi Nui. In addition to his achievements in entertainment, he also excelled in athletics, playing as a defensive lineman for Utah State and participating in the Polynesian Bowl. Notably, he is regarded as one of the greatest fire knife dancers of all time.  We are delighted to welcome Hale to our World's Best Luau Team.

Emcee | Host

Rex Tiumalu

Rex Tiumalu, originally from Orlando, Florida, hails from a family deeply rooted in entertainment. His lineage has been instrumental in the development of iconic Polynesian shows, including the Sea World and Disney luau experiences, which have significantly shaped the Polynesian entertainment industry. A distinguished World Champion Fire Knife Dancer, Rex has achieved multiple titles and accolades globally. His impressive career includes performances in prestigious venues such as Disney's Luau and Festival of the Lion King, Sea World Luau, Universal Studios Luau, Chiefs Luau, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and Tihati Productions. Rex has also established a successful show in Los Angeles, which continues to captivate audiences. His television credits are notable, including appearances on NBC Universal’s "American Song Contest," "Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles," "Tengo Talento Mucho Talento," "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City," ABC's "Grownish," and Spike TV's "TNA Impact." As a passionate advocate for Polynesian culture, Rex leads workshops and festivals worldwide, sharing his expertise and promoting cultural awareness. In Orlando, he serves as the Master of Ceremonies for prominent shows including Polynesian Fire, Aloha Productions, and the WANTILAN Luau at Universal Studios. An accomplished Polynesian drummer, musician, and dancer, Rex Tiumalu embodies a multifaceted talent as he takes on the role of Main Master of Ceremonies for WBL, showcasing his diverse skills and profound cultural contributions.

Polynesian Dancer

Ahria Skipps

The daughter of Julius and Kehau Skipps, has been dancing since she was little. Her father taught her and she was part of his group; Maeva I Patiti Fa. After that, she joined another group in Utah for about two years. Now, she dances solo, aiming to continue her father's legacy. Polynesian dance and dancing in general are her true passions. She enjoys dancing because it sends a message of love and unity through movement to those around her. Ahria finds joy in sharing the cultures she dances with and has participated in many big productions in Hawaii and Utah. Over three years, she has competed in Tahitian competitions and placed each time. Since her father's passing, she hasn't taken a break and is using this time to become even stronger. She's getting back into dancing, starting slowly and putting her heart into it, beginning with The World's Best luau. Ahria is ready and excited to dance for people all around and is eager to showcase what the best luau is truly about. Cheeehiiiii! We are delighted to welcome Ahria to our World's Best Luau team.

Polynesian Dancer

Teancum Kaitoku

Teancum Kaitoku was born and raised in La'ie, Hawai'i. He has been dancing for as long as he can remember. His background is primarily in Hula and Ori Tahiti. He danced for Napuananionapalionako'olau and Nonosina Hawai'i, and had the privilege to compete throughout his childhood. He participated in the Keiki Hula Competition, placing 3rd in the Master Keiki Hula category. At the age of 6, he started working at the Polynesian Cultural Center as a performer and entertainer, and continued dancing there for 13+ years. After that, he performed with BYU's Living Legends, which preserves and portrays the cultural dances of Polynesian, Native American, and Latin American peoples. Here, he served as the Polynesian Section Leader and the Student President. Through this group, he traveled the world and performed for all kinds of people, from elementary students to royalty. Currently, he dances for Ali'itasi Productions LLC in Utah, continuing his journey as a dancer, performer, entertainer, and cultural practitioner. As a dancer, he has always looked for ways to improve, portray his heritage, honor his ancestors, and provide the best experience possible for every audience member. He hopes to pass along all that he has learned and experienced to his children so they can continue this legacy and provide them with a deep understanding of who they are. We are pleased to have Teancum join our World's Best Luau team.

Fire-Knife

Viavia “VJ” Tiumalu Jr.

Viavia “VJ” Tiumalu Jr. was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. He started practicing fire-knife at the age of 4 and has since achieved several championships, including 2-time World Junior Champion (PCC), 3-time Junior Champion (Fire Knife of Samoa), 3-time World Fire Knife Champion (PCC), 2-time Senior Champion (Fire Knife of Samoa), and Senior Champion 2023 (Le Kaua Ailao). VJ has been deeply involved in the entertainment industry and the Polynesian culture. “I grew up watching my Father and Uncles perform throughout the East Coast. I would constantly watch different Polynesian shows and entertainment, whether on film or in front of a live audience, but my favorites were always the ones that featured Fire Knife. It has been my passion and calling since the day I can remember.” (Viavia “VJ” Tiumalu Jr.) His work experience includes fire-knife dancing at Disney’s Festival of the Lion King, Seaworld’s Polynesian Luau, Universal Studios, and he is currently the main solo Fireknife artist for Tihati Productions in Maui, Hawai’i. His talents and hobbies also include Hawaiian Falsetto singing, Tahitian drumming, vocalist, ukulele player, and musician. Additionally, he performs for Mauka Warriors luau and Ka Moana and Diamond Head luau. VJ's goal is to share and promote Polynesian culture and the art of siva ailao afi worldwide. He attributes all his success and honor to our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ. He is currently performing for Mauka Warriors luau and Ka Moana and Diamond head luau, and is a welcomed addition to our World's Best Luau Team.

Fire-Knife

Martin Tevaga

Born in Wailuku on the island of Maui, Hawaii, to parents Tulaga Vaifale Tevaga and Rasela Tuivaiti, Martin Tevaga was exposed to fire knife dancing from birth. He spent his childhood years backstage and in dressing rooms of luaus and conventions throughout the islands of Hawaii, knowing that he too would be a performer. With 31 years of Ailao Afi experience, Martin Tevaga dedicated his life to fire knife dancing from the age of 5 and captured the intermediate World Fire Knife Championship title in 2001. He is also a multiple-time semi-finalist and finalist in the World Fire Knife Competition and the Si’a Le Afi Fire Knife Competition in Maui. He has performed for Obriein Eselu, Steve Laulu, Kaniela Masoe, The Akima Aiga, groups on Kauai, Tihati Productions, Polynesian Village Luau, Royal Lahaina Luau, Cirque Maseo, Hot Lava Productions, and Gladius the show in Las Vegas. He is still a freelance performer all over the United States. He is also currently one of four fire knife performers on the field for every BYU football home game. His most recent accomplishment is the opening of TNT Ailao Academy in both Salt Lake and Utah County, with students in Arkansas, Colorado, Las Vegas, and Maui, Hawaii. We are pleased to welcome Martin to our World's Best Luau team.

Polynesian Live Music

Alika

Hawaiian music today is as complex and rich as the history of the native people from where it stems. Peaceful rhythms and poetic lyrics are what first attracted Alika to the tunes that held the history of his ancestry and celebrated island life as he knew it. At a very young age, his interest was supported by his family who led him to the Honolulu Boys' Choir and The Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus where he mastered various instruments and learned voice parts, including the renowned art of leo ki'eki'e, Hawaiian Falsetto. As a young adult, Alika traveled the South Pacific sharing his Polynesian heritage, and love of Hawaiian Language and music with guests on luxury cruise lines. From Easter Island to his Maori cousins in New Zealand, the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of culture became entwined with music, and the awareness of making music his life was realized. It is music that is the soil of his soul. Mahalo Nui

Polynesian Dancer

Leila Pearl W. Wihongi 

Leila Pearl W. Wihongi is a dedicated Polynesian dancer with a lifelong passion for her art. Her dance journey began with ‘Ngati Hiona,’ a Maori performance group based in Utah, reflecting her Maori heritage. Leila's talent and dedication led her to join ‘Tausala,’ a renowned group founded by Fina Schwenke, which performs traditional dances from Samoa, Tahiti, Hawaii, Tonga, and New Zealand. Leila has excelled in Tahitian dance competitions, placing both times she competed as a representative of ‘Tausala.’ It was within this group that her love for Pacific Island culture flourished, allowing her to choreograph, perform, and share her talent with her dance sisters. Through dance, she developed confidence and a strong work ethic, striving to honor Pacific Island cultures, her choreographers, and her audience. Leila describes dance as love in physical form, bringing people together in unity. She is a well-rounded individual who excels in all her endeavors. As a member of the World's Best Luau, she is eager to share her love for dance and culture with a broader audience.

Entertainment

Lehi M. Falepapalangi

Lehi M. Falepapalangi is a distinguished Hollywood actor of Tongan descent, widely recognized for his outstanding performances in a variety of film and television productions. He has received praise for his roles in significant projects such as "Next Goal Wins" by Taika Waititi, as well as in popular TV series including Disney Plus's "High School Musical: The Musical: The Series," "Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.," Netflix's "The Naked Director," Hulu's "Futureman," and CBS's long-running hit "Hawaii Five-0," among others. In addition to his acting success, Lehi M. Falepapalangi has a decade-long career as a professional emcee. He began his journey at the esteemed Polynesian Cultural Center, where he developed his exceptional ability to captivate and connect with audiences. This dual proficiency underscores his commitment to delivering compelling performances and engaging storytelling, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. With a strong appreciation for his Tongan heritage and a versatile skill set that spans both on-screen acting and live event hosting, Lehi Falepapalangi continues to have a significant impact, embodying authenticity and charisma in every aspect of his career. We are thrilled to have Lehi join our World's Best Luau Team.

Polynesian Live Music

Polikapo Liua Sr.

Polikapo Liua Sr. developed his musical talents in his teens, mastering the ukulele and guitar by observing others and playing by ear. He has experience performing as a dancer in a Polynesian revue group in Fresno, CA. Currently, Polikapo continues to hone his skills by playing guitar at home and studying music theory through YouTube videos. Polikapo is honored to bring his passion for Polynesian music to life at our luau events. He is excited to be part of this exceptional experience, where he can not only indulge in his love for music but also witness the joy it brings to attendees. He is committed to sharing the vibrant culture of Polynesia with the community in Utah, offering a unique and memorable experience.