Dance Lecturer
Tahitian Dance
nalini2@hawaii.edu
Nalini Gauthier is the dance lecturer and instructor for the Tahitian Dance course for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Department of Theatre and Dance. Co-Founder of Tahiti Mana, as well as the Creative Director, Costume Designer and Vahine (Female) Choreographer and Dance Instructor. Tahiti Mana was founded in 2011 by Manarii & Nalini but has become the vibrant dance family it is today because of all the talented and passionate individuals who share the love for Tahitian dance and culture. Besides over 20 years of Tahitian & Polynesian dance experience, Nalini also received a B.A. Minor Degree in Dance. She is passionate about teaching and grateful to be able to pass on the knowledge that has been graciously shared with her. Coming from a Traditional Style of Tahitian Dance, with Makau Foster being her main dance inspiration, she believes in the importance of tradition. Studying the Tahitian language and learning ancient legends and history is important to her process and at the same time, when it is appropriate, she is not afraid to push her own boundaries and find inspiration in unexpected ways.
Some highlights from her career include being a featured dancer in TV shows on E!, Comedy Central, and as far as German T.V. She has been blessed to be able to tour Japan performing and has taught workshops in New Zealand, Japan, mainland US as well as around the Hawaiian islands. Her choreography is featured in Waikiki Shows and around the world from Japan to Italy, to Korea and more. She sees dance as a way to strengthen community and to invigorate an individual’s body/mind. She believes performing is an honor and a gift to share with the audience.