Big Tahiti dance fest. ... no locals?

Once again the Merced County Fairgrounds is hosting the Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete.

It will take place March 14-16 with group and solo competitions of Tahitian dances. The competitions move ahead each day, with solo dance eliminations and the Maeva Merced Polynesian Pageant on Friday the 14th. The solo finalists perform Saturday the 15th, along with the group drumming competition. Performers range from age 4 to adult, giving beginners through professionals a chance to take the stage.

On Sunday, March 16, first-place winners of the "Professional Soloists" will compete for the Overall Vahine and Tane "Best Dancer Awards."

I went a couple of years ago to cover this show and was impressed by the talent and elaborate costumes. It was filled with attendees from all over the state. But it appeared that all the attendees were competing or related to someone competing. I didn't meet one audience member from Merced County who had simply come to see the show. In fact, I didn't meet anyone in the audience from this county, although I know some locals perform.

Now, I could be wrong, and this all could have changed during the year I missed, but I remember thinking it was a shame more people from this area didn't check it out. Sure, not everyone is up for live dance performances. But it's colorful, fun and not something you get to see around here a whole lot.

Maybe the cost of admission had something to do with it. Tickets are $15 in advance, $17 at the door. But I've seen a lot less for a lot pricier.

Call (209) 726-1925 for more information or advance tickets.