The History of Poi
Poi is a form of dance, where balls on the ends of ropes are swung through rhythmical patterns. It is rooted in the History of the Maori people of Aotearoa (aka New Zealand). It began as a physical exercise, used by the women to develop grace and flexibility, and by the men to develop strength and coordination. Today it is mostly practiced by the women, who combine the poi movements with songs and physical actions in traditional performances such as the Kapa Haka.
Poi was popularized throughout the world largely by fire spinning, spawned when the ancient art of poi met modern day dance parties. In time, many poi enthusiasts began taking up flag poi, LED poi, and other tools that also express the beauty of poi, minus the health and environmental risks of fire.
Poi has evolved and changed since leaving Aotearoa. Many poi artists have borrowed from other disciplines, such as Chinese martial arts, Indian club swinging, and rhythmic gymnastics. Poi appeals to those who are looking for an active and engaging physical activity that is more stimulating than tai-chi or yoga but less intense and competitive than martial arts or competitive sports. There is now a large global community of poi enthusiasts devoted to this dynamic and diverse art, and the internet serves as a major medium for exchanging ideas and enthusiasm. At the centre of the community are the true believers, who see poi as the Jedi Training Tool of the new millennium. This mythos provides a curious undercurrent to the art-form.
Many thanks and endless respect to Nick Woolsey & Playpoi for the above Poi History Lesson!!!
Advanced Poi Workshop '08 with Nick of Playpoi - photography by happydesigns
Poi is a form of dance, where balls on the ends of ropes are swung through rhythmical patterns. It is rooted in the History of the Maori people of Aotearoa (aka New Zealand). It began as a physical exercise, used by the women to develop grace and flexibility, and by the men to develop strength and coordination. Today it is mostly practiced by the women, who combine the poi movements with songs and physical actions in traditional performances such as the Kapa Haka.
Poi was popularized throughout the world largely by fire spinning, spawned when the ancient art of poi met modern day dance parties. In time, many poi enthusiasts began taking up flag poi, LED poi, and other tools that also express the beauty of poi, minus the health and environmental risks of fire.
Poi has evolved and changed since leaving Aotearoa. Many poi artists have borrowed from other disciplines, such as Chinese martial arts, Indian club swinging, and rhythmic gymnastics. Poi appeals to those who are looking for an active and engaging physical activity that is more stimulating than tai-chi or yoga but less intense and competitive than martial arts or competitive sports. There is now a large global community of poi enthusiasts devoted to this dynamic and diverse art, and the internet serves as a major medium for exchanging ideas and enthusiasm. At the centre of the community are the true believers, who see poi as the Jedi Training Tool of the new millennium. This mythos provides a curious undercurrent to the art-form.
Many thanks and endless respect to Nick Woolsey & Playpoi for the above Poi History Lesson!!!
Advanced Poi Workshop '08 with Nick of Playpoi - photography by happydesigns