The History of Firedancing
The element of fire has existed as a part of tribal dancing for ages. What we think of as firedancing is largely influenced by Maori and Hawaiian traditions...
Maori Poi
New Zealand's Maori people and their traditions are one of the main foundations of modern firedancing. Maori poi balls are percussive and dance instruments that are used in a variety of ways, including storytelling and exercise. Poi use increases flexibility and strength of wrists, hands, and arms, as well as helping to develop coordination.
A Maori poi routine is quite rhythmic in nature. The various Maori tribes have their own dances and customs regarding poi, though there are many similiarities in the history of maori poi uses. The Rhythm and Life of Poi is an excellent book with some great information about the history and cultural significance of Maori poi dances. (Poi Spinning by Michal Kahn is a much better book for learning the moves.) Dances of Life will be broadcast on PBS and looks like a promising film about these traditions.
Maori poi dancing is not traditionally done with fire, but it is the closest relative to fire poi.
Hawaiian Fireknife Dance
Fire was only recently added to the traditional Samoan or Hawaiian ailao (knife dance). In 1946 Letuli Olo Misilagi was performing at a Shriners Convention in San Francisco and was inspired by a fire eater and baton twirler to create a fireknife dance. His book "Flaming Sword of Samoa" is available at Amazon. There is now an annual World Fire Knife Dance Competition in Oahu, and an official website (with the 2004 results!) You can also find more information at Siva Aafi, and purchase fireknife related items.
Bulgarian Firedancing (AKA Fire Walking)
In the mountains of Bulgaria on the day of Saint Constantine the locals celebrate by walking on fire. Over the last couple of decades there have been struggles to keep the traditions from being impacted by the tourist industry. Excited spectators have tried to join in and have become injured as a result. (Whether you're walking over live coals or spinning fire around your body it definitely pays to practice without fire first and understand what you're getting yourself into.)
Thailand Beaches
Fire chains / fire poi are very popular in Thailand among the party culture and can be seen in use on any tourist beach. In particular you will see all kinds of fire twirling and fire swinging at the Full Moon party on Koh Phangan. Be aware that the Full Moon party is attended by thousands of tourists, so if you're planning on attending set your expectations accordingly.
Here & Now
There are new fire toys constantly being created and new fire dances and routines being developed and performed! We are now in the process of globally creating our own art and culture and our own sacred fire ceremonies, fire rituals, and customs. It's incredibly exciting to see all of the different and awesome ways in which our people are expressing themselves and communicating and playing with each other.
Welcome to the global fire tribe!
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