Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about joining Tavake Rereata
GETTING STARTED
Q: What is Tavake Rereata?
A: Tavake Rereata is a Tahitian music & dance school founded in Tokyo in 2010 bringing real Polynesian culture, unique teaching methods, and strong community to Southern California.
Q: I've never danced before. Can I still join?
A: Absolutely! Our tried and true teaching system is designed for ALL skill levels. We focus on basics, balance, musicality and technique for every dancer, whether you're a complete beginner or experienced performer. Everyone starts somewhere!
Q: What ages do you accept?
A: We welcome all ages! Our classes are designed to work for children, teens, adults. Families often dance together - it's a beautiful way to strengthen bonds and learn culture together.
Q: What makes Tavake Rereata different from other dance studios?
A: We're not just teaching dance steps - we're sharing the Tahitian culture including singing, drumming, traditional instruments, language, and history through legends and myths. Plus, our competition-proven teaching system focuses on building confidence, community, and cultural connection alongside technique.
β° CLASSES & SCHEDULE
Q: When do classes start?
A: Our 12-class program runs August through December 2025:
FREE Orientation: August 22nd at 7pm
Classes Start: August 24th
Final Recital: December 14th
Q: What if I miss the first few classes?
A: No problem! We offer catch-up options through Week 3 (September 7th):
Private 30-minute session ($40)
Buddy system with experienced dancer (FREE)
Video review program (FREE) Late starters get adjusted pricing too!
Q: What are your class hours?
A: Weekends: 1pm-6pm Specific class times will be confirmed based on enrollment and student preferences.
Q: Can I make up missed classes?
A: Yes! Pay-in-Full and Monthly Plan students can make up missed classes subject to space availability. Pay-Per-Class students cannot make up missed sessions.
Q: What if classes are cancelled due to low enrollment?
A: We provide full refunds if we need to cancel classes due to insufficient enrollment. However, given our track record and community excitement, we're confident this won't be an issue!
π° PRICING & PAYMENTS
Q: What are my payment options?
A: We offer three flexible options:
Early Bird Special: $330 (save $60!) - valid until August 22nd
Monthly Payment Plan: $390 total ($90 + $120 + $120 + $60)
Pay-Per-Class: $30 each (subject to availability, RSVP required)
Q: Are there family discounts?
A: Yes! Families save big:
2 family members: 10% off total fees
3+ family members: 15% off total fees Must be immediate family in same household, applies to Pay-in-Full and Monthly Plans only.
Q: How does the referral program work?
A: When you refer a friend who enrolls:
You get: $25 credit toward workshops/next session
Your friend gets: $25 off their enrollment
Refer 3 friends: Bonus $25 credit ($100 total!) August Special:Double rewards - $50 each!
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: Credit/debit cards, cash (in-studio), bank transfer/Zelle, and PayPal.
Q: What's your refund policy?
A:
Pay-in-Full: 50% refund before September 15th, no refunds after
Monthly Plan: Future months cancellable with 7 days notice
Pay-Per-Class: No refunds once class begins
Medical emergencies: Considered case-by-case with documentation
Q: Can I change my payment plan after registering?
A: Payment plans cannot be changed once selected, but contact us if your circumstances change - we'll work with you when possible.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Q: What should I wear to class?
A: Comfortable workout clothes you can move freely in. We have pΔreu and studio shirts available for purchase as your uniform.
Q: What will I learn besides dancing?
A: You'll experience Tahitian culture through art including:
Traditional drumming and singing
Polynesian instruments
Tahitian language basics
Cultural history and stories
Performance techniques and stage presence
Q: Will there be performances?
A: Yes! Our program culminates in a recital on December 14th. We also offer workshops throughout the year, and advanced students may have opportunities to compete.
Q: What if the class is full when I want to drop in?
A: Pay-per-class students are accommodated on a space-available basis only. Enrolled students (Pay-in-Full and Monthly Plan) have priority. We recommend registering for the full program to guarantee your spot!
π LOCATION & LOGISTICS
Q: Where are you located?
A: UPDATE - class location will be determined upon studio availabilty. We will be adding locations to each class date shortly. We apologize for the inconvenience. Class will still be held in Central to North OC.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes! We'll provide detailed parking information once you register.
Q: Do you offer online classes?
A: Not currently, but online classes are part of our future expansion plans. Right now, we're focused on building our Orange County community through in-person instruction.
π EXPERIENCE & CREDENTIALS
Q: What are your competition achievements?
A: We're incredibly proud of our record:
2x first place Ote'a group (OTN group competition)
2x first place Mehura group (OTN group competition)
5x overall group winner at Heiva in Tokyo
Overall Group winner at Hura Tahiti 2021
2x overall solo winner at Heiva I San Diego & many more overall solo winners
Q: Who will be teaching?
A: Classes are led by Mevina & Napua, founders and owners, with additional instructors from Japan joining as we grow (approximately 2 instructors per 30-40 dancers).
Q: What's your teaching philosophy?
A: We believe in nurturing a culture of supportive camaraderie, deep bonds, confidence, and empowerment for all dancers of all ages and cultures. Our innovative system focuses on proper basics, balance, musicality and technique while coming correct with the culture.
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
Q: What does "Tavake Rereata" mean?
A: The TAVAKE is the red tailed tropic bird and REREATA is to fly above the clouds. TAVAKE REREATA is the bird whose wings carve paths through the skies, soaring high above the land.
Q: Do I need to know anything about Tahitian culture beforehand?
A: Not at all! Part of our mission is sharing and teaching authentic Polynesian culture. You'll learn as you dance, and we love welcoming people new to our traditions.
Q: What's the community like?
A: We're like family. Our students support each other, celebrate together, and create lasting friendships. Many of our Tokyo students are still close friends after 15 years.
Q: Are there opportunities beyond regular classes?
A: Yes! We offer special workshops like:
Tiare Trompette Workshop (September 13)
2nd Annual Hitihura Competitive Workshop (October 5) Members get 20% off all workshops!
π STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Q: How can I contact you?
A: Weβre here to help!
Email: TavakeOC@gmail.com
Phone/Text: 714.332.7881
Q: Can I visit the studio before registering?
A: Absolutely! Join us for our FREE Orientation on August 22nd at 7pm - it's the perfect way to see our space, meet Mevina & Napua, and get all your questions answered in person.
Q: What if I have more questions after reading this?
A: Please reach out! We love talking about Tahitian dance and helping people find the right fit. No question is too small - we're here to make sure you feel completely comfortable joining our 'ohana.
β° READY TO JOIN?
Don't forget - Early Bird pricing ends August 22nd!
πΊ Save $60 with Early Bird Special
π― FREE Orientation August 22nd at 7pm
π Limited spots available
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Family discounts up to 15% off