Temotu Province’s Nende Dance Association: Performing Traditional and Unity Song
By Lynton A. Filia
Temotu province’s Nende Dance Association in the Solomon Islands has showcased a remarkable cultural dance and theme song to bid farewell to the participants of the 17th Pacific Games, yesterday at the National Arts Gallery grounds.
Sir Patteson Oti in full traditional attire
Led by Sir Patteson Oti, Speaker of the Solomon Islands National Parliament who is also the group’s leader, the dancers captivated the audience with a traditional dance and a song composed in their native Temotu dialect.
The performance, held at the Art Gallery during the Umi Wan Festival, drew participants and audiences from Honiara and across the Pacific region. The group’s rendition of their specially crafted song held deep significance, capturing the essence of the occasion.
In an exclusive interview with SIBC, Sir Patteson illuminated the profound meaning behind the Nelo dance, an integral part of the Santa Cruz custom. Deeply rooted in Temotu’s traditions, the Nelo dance possesses the unique ability to commemorate various events across the islands, signifying the richness of their cultural tapestry.
Sir Patteson shared the underlying theme of the song, specifically created for the 17th Pacific Games: “Kio Kami ragi,” translating to “come plane from outside.” The linguistic nuance of using “kio” for a plane, metaphorically representing a rooster’s ability to fly, conveyed the sentiment of welcoming visitors from afar to the Temotu Solo islands.
“Temotu Nende means island in Nende, Solomon Islands, Temotu Solo,” Oti explained, underscoring the significance of the lyrics in paying tribute to the gathering of nations during the Pacific Games.
The linguistic nuance of using “kio” for a plane, metaphorically representing a rooster’s ability to fly, conveyed the sentiment of welcoming visitors from afar to the Temotu Solo islands.
Highlighting the exclusive nature of their traditional attire, he also shed light on the Nelo, a nose ornament donned during these ceremonial dances.
“I crafted my costume in 2004. None of it is disposed of. Each Nelo holds profound cultural significance, passed down through generations. Only individuals initiated into the dance can wear these cherished ornaments, signifying the deep cultural heritage embedded within the dance association’s performances,” he explained.
He further emphasized, “The costume is Nelc (Nelo), and it’s not something you dispose of. It’s an integral part of our culture.”
The “Iumi Wan Festival” stands as the Cultural Program for the Pacific Games, offering an immersive experience for both the local community and visiting guests, enriching the tapestry of this prestige event in Honiara. –ENDS