Explore features, interviews, and collaborations highlighting Tala Mai Moana's work in preserving and sharing Pacific Island culture.

DNCE 260 Pacific Island Dance class performance at University of Redlands Memorial Chapel
Feature June 12, 2025

Culture and Community: First Pacific Island Dance Class at the University of Redlands

The Redlands Bulldog

A look at DNCE 260, the first accredited Pacific Island dance course of its kind in the continental United States. Elaine Talamaivao created a welcoming space for students to build family and community while learning about Pacific Islander culture, dances, and history.

"There was always this longing to find my peoples and then be able to be comfortable with those peoples... I think in life we're constantly pursuing being a better person or being a better human in society."
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Elaine Talamaivao - Photo by Adam Apperson
Interview March 10, 2025

Living and Sharing Pacific Island Culture

Stance on Dance

An in-depth interview with Elaine Talamaivao exploring her journey from Samoa to Aotearoa to America, the founding of Tala Mai Moana, and her unique fusion of Pacific Island dance with krump and hip hop culture.

"Dance connected me with people at a time when language was very much a barrier... It's not about monetizing that wisdom – it's about preserving our history and our culture."
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Collaborations & Partnerships

Community partnerships, cultural exhibitions, and keynote appearances bringing Pacific Island culture to diverse audiences.

Kūkulu Traveling Exhibition

Community Partner

Ongoing Partnership

Supporting Mauna Kea Education and Awareness through the Kūkulu exhibit, honoring the protectors who stood in lines on the mauna and sacred places worldwide.

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City of Cypress Women's Conference

Keynote Speaker

2024 @ City of Cypress

Elaine Talamaivao delivered the keynote address at the 2024 Women's Conference, empowering and motivating attendees through her story of cultural preservation and community building.

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The Source Southern California

Cultural Visioning Partner & Performer

October 14, 2023 @ Mt. San Jacinto College

A community festival bringing indigenous dancers, artists, and communities together. TMM presented "Storytelling through Generations" and performed traditional Polynesian dance.

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The Source Northern California

Cultural Visioning Partner

September 7–10, 2023 @ Cal State East Bay & Dance Mission Theater

A four-day gathering of intercultural experiences co-curated by TMM, featuring rituals, performances, workshops, cultural shares, and ancestral connectivity through multiple exchanges.

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Tapa Night at Eastside Art House

Host & Cultural Leader

August 2022 @ Eastside Art House, Riverside

An incredible cultural experience hosting a tapa art print workshop, bringing the community together through Pacific Islander artmaking traditions.

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Riverside Art Museum Polynesian Exhibit

Cultural Contributor & Performer

November 2021 @ Taylor Gallery, Riverside

Behind the scenes collaboration for the Polynesian Exhibit, contributing cultural pieces and dance performances highlighting the local Polynesian community.

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