Tahia Cambet is a renowned Tahitian dancer, choreographer, and teacher who has played an important role in spreading ‘Ori Tahiti internationally. Born in Tahiti and introduced to dance at the age of three, she developed her technique through years of training at the Artistic Conservatory of French Polynesia, where she later graduated with the Diploma of Traditional Studies and a gold medal in Tahitian dance.
After completing her studies, Tahia joined the prestigious Grands Ballets de Tahiti, gaining professional stage experience and refining her artistic style before moving to Europe. Based in Paris, she founded the dance school and troupe O Tahiti Nui, which has become one of the most recognized centers for Polynesian dance in France. Through performances, competitions, and workshops across Europe, she has helped introduce new audiences to the richness of Tahitian culture.
Tahia Cambet has also achieved notable success in international competitions. She won the title of Best Aparima Solo dancer at Heiva i Paris and earned several awards with her troupe, including top prizes in both group and solo categories. In global competitions held in Tahiti, she achieved vice-world champion titles in both ‘ote’a and aparima improvisation, demonstrating her versatility in the two major styles of ‘Ori Tahiti.
Beyond the stage, Tahia is widely respected for her dedication to teaching. Her school gathers hundreds of students from diverse backgrounds, and her approach emphasizes not only technique but also cultural understanding, confidence, and personal expression through dance. For Tahia Cambet, ‘Ori Tahiti is more than performance—it is a living cultural heritage meant to be shared across generations and across the world.
Through her work as a performer, choreographer, and instructor, Tahia Cambet represents a generation of artists helping bring the spirit of Polynesian dance to an international stage while remaining deeply connected to its traditions.
