Cultural Informant: J'Son

J’son is the Hawaiian song and dance instructor at Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts. He was born in Sydney, to Hawaiian parents. As a child, he learnt Hawaiian songs at home, singing them with his family, a tradition that’s continued to this day. Growing up, there were no Hawaiian dance schools in Sydney, so teaching himself was the only option. He has performed with various Polynesian dance groups such as 'Makali'i, Te Puawai, Kahlani, and E'vana. J'son then carried on dancing for the opening cermeony of the Sydney Olympic Games 2000, Barry Manilow's Copacabana the musical, Fame, Reach, Love Belle, and the musical 'Rent', where he played the lead role of Angel.

 

By teaching oli and hula to his students, he shared and passes on the Hawaiian culture, giving opportunities to students who would have otherwise not have had the chance to learn. These chants are his way of also teaching the Hawaiian language and values.