Vaela’a Iloa, better known as the ‘Ula boy’ is Samoa’s top siva afi dancer, claiming the top prize at the 13th International Siva Afi Competition on the weekend.
Performing for the crowds at the event’s final, held in Matautu last Saturday night, Mr. Iloa from Tufulele is Samoa’s champion fire knife dancer.
To be awarded the title of champion, Mr. Iloa had work hard to better stiff competition he faced from the other finalists including Alema Alema, Lene Alema, Tuai Atonio and Perry Lesoa.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi was there on the evening to officially open the finals on the night.
“I want to thank Leota for inviting me to witness this international siva afi competition and may the best of the best performers win tonight,” the Prime Minister said.
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“Siva afi is a Samoan own-grown performing art which was known only in Samoa.
“The weekly free workshop organised by Leota in fire dancing has certainly spread the knowledge of the arts in the Pacific.”
Tuilaepa said that he had noticed other Pacific Island countries are now all performing the siva afi.
“They perform siva afi but not with a burning knife but a broom stick,” he said.
“And for your information, siva afi was made only for men of muscles and courage.”
He also added that the modern fire knife dance has its roots in the ancient Samoan performance called "ailao" - the flashy demonstration of a Samoan warrior's battle prowess through artful twirling, throwing and catching, and dancing with a war club.
“Its shows beauty and excitement,” said Tuilaepa.
The judges for this year’s competition were Patrick Rassmussen, Lesoa Leilua from Savai’i and Dominic Fa’agalu Fonoti.
Final Result;
1st – Vaela’a Iloa
2nd – Alema Alema
3rd – Perry Lesoa
4th – Tuai Atonio
5th – Lene Alema
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