Polynesian culture hits the campus club scene
The Polynesian Arts Club was fashioned this semester to introduce Saddleback students to interesting and exotic skills. The club teaches Polynesian dancing, drumming, and culture.
“We want to share this with the students at school,” said Michael Montgomery, 18, English education. “It is fun to do and [to] be a part of.”
Montgomery was exposed to Polynesian dancing and drumming at an early age due to his family’s involvement in the practice. Since these talents were so prevalent in his household, it was easier for him to adopt and perfect his techniques.
Christine Galindez, the club’s secretary, has been dancing for two years at a studio called ‘Children of Le Polynesia’.
“One reason why we created this club was to expand our group and get more dancers,” said Galindez, 20, business.
Their studio and all of the vital equipment, such as drums and ukuleles, are available to all those willing to join the club. Montgomery provides CDs of drumming for all the members so that they can get accustomed to different beats.
Besides simply learning an impressive and unique talent, people will get a phenomenal cardio-vascular workout. The dance tones the abs, legs, torso, and thighs.
EJ Cruz, 18, business, also dances at the studio.
“The dances work out pretty much the whole body,” Cruz said. “The dances can be rigorous and demanding at times.”
Even though it takes practice, no one should be intimidated by this alien art. The club is welcome to anyone that is willing to try something new.
“It will increase their skill in a relaxed environment where they will receive special attention,” Montgomery said. “However, it depends on how bad a person wants it. If they attend our weekly meetings and practice a couple of hours at home, they will be surprised how quickly they will pick it up. Everyone is invited to come to our meetings.”
The Polynesian Arts club meets every Wednesday from 6-7 p.m. in Saddleback’s gym.