‘Ori Tahiti Shanghai introduces Tahitian dance from French Polynesia, known for its fast hip movements, rhythmic drumming, and expressive storytelling through movement. It includes two main styles: Ote’a, a high-energy, percussion-driven form, and ‘Aparima, a slower, lyrical style that uses hand gestures to “speak” with music. Founded by Kiana Mendoza, a California-trained dancer who has taught and performed internationally before establishing her classes in Shanghai, the practice blends cultural roots with performance and learning. The focus is less on precision alone and more on expression, rhythm, and the idea of “dance with joy.”