OUR history

Tē Here ʻA Hura is located in Jacksonville, FL and is the first and only Pūpū ʻOri (Tahitian/Polynesian Dance Group) in Northeast FL.

Tē Here ʻA Hura translated from the Tahitian language is "The Love of Dance".

Our creative Directors, Hina Mariteragi Buendia and Jerly Asunto Drysdale collectively have more than 65 years of professional experience in Polynesian dancing (Tahitian, Hawaiian, Samoan, Maori, Tongan, Fijian), instruction in Polynesian dance, and the entertainment industry. With their extensive experience performing in nationally and internationally acclaimed professional entertainment shows and productions, their professionalism and knowledge of the demands in show business is a valued part of their instruction to their students.

Tē Here ʻA Hura is the lifelong dream of Hina and Jerly. With their God-given talents, their exceptional award-winning backgrounds, and combined skills, they have trained champion soloists and dance groups. Most notably, they are recognized by their peers as respected leaders and mentors within the Polynesian community.

OUR MISSION

Dance is a powerful way to connect with God and others, showing our gratitude and celebrating life's joys together beyond cultural limits.

Our dance group is devoted to providing dancers of all ages and levels an encouraging environment to grow and excel in their education of the Polynesian culture through language, music, and dance.

OUR VISION

We strive to deliver the highest quality of training and wish to encourage our students to achieve success beyond our studio walls. We create an environment that supports all aspects of student development, nourished in mind, body, and spirit.

OUR values

We emphasize the importance of ministry through dance, honoring God and serving others with excellence and respect.

Our approach prioritizes spiritual growth, community building, and service to others. We are dedicated to personal and collective growth, while maintaining a professional and respectful environment.