Traditional dance is one of the most important forms of artistic expression in Cook Island culture.

Through dance, drum and song the people of the Cook Islands tell the story of their ancestors and the history of their nation. 

Continuing the oral tradition of their forebears, the music re-tells the legends and myths, reinforcing their place in the history of each Cook Islander's life.

Make sure you see an Island Night dance, song and drum performance during your stay in the Cook Islands.  The beat of the drum is an ancient art, combined with the beauty and grace of dancers dressed in traditional, brightly coloured costume and singing the traditional songs passed down over hundreds of years. It is a powerful form of expression, and can be a spine tingling experience.

Many island nights on Aitutaki are performed on the beach, out under the stars.  With the coconut palms swaying gently in the breeze, the scent of frangipani fading gently as the night arrives and the haunting tones of the conch shell drawing the dancers to begin their performance, you'll have to pinch yourself to believe you are really there.

Each performance will tell a story, the movements of the dancers a part of that tale.  Stories of lost love, lovers thwarted, strong and ancient warriors in battle.

Many Cook Island dances performed by men include slaps to the body, stamping of the feet and large, aggressive movements while the women's dances can often be sensual and swaying, using the distinctive hip movements of the South Pacific for suggestion and nuance. 

These many movements are combined together when the men and women dance and sing together, backed by the ever-resounding beat of the drums.

The people of Aitutaki are well known for their unique and popular dancing style.  Each year the dance teams of Aitutaki journey to Rarotonga in August to enter the Maire Maeva Nui dance competitions.  Aitutaki has won the competitions more than any other island and currently hold the title.