By Alesha Capone
Tarneit teenager Logan Tapuala will team up with a well-known fire knife performer to help teach a workshop this week.
The fire knife – aka the Siva Afi – is a traditional Samoan cultural implement that is used in ceremonial dances.
Logan, 16, will assist fire knife performer Justyce Edmonds for a workshop at Tarneit Rise Primary School, which will teach participants the basic movements used by ancient Samoan warriors in war.
While the workshop will not include any fire, the spins and movements to be taught will be the same ones used by the professionals.
Logan said that when he was aged around six or seven, his uncle Stevie taught him the basics of Siva Afi.
“I like doing it because it connects me to my culture,” he said.
“I practice in my backyard at home.”
Logan’s mother Morwenna, who runs a business called Measina Treasures of Samoa – which aims to give back to the Samoan community by selling products made by Samoans, promoting Samoan businesses and offering educational programs sharing Samoan culture – will present the Siva Afi workshop on Friday, November 22, from 7.30-9pm, recommended for participants aged 10 and older.
Tickets are $55 or $70 if you would like to buy your own practice stick. Book at www.measinasamoa.com.au.
