Siva Afi (Samoan Fire Knife Dance)

The Samoan "Siva Afi" (Fire-Knife Dance) has a history which goes back several generations. As the name implies, the dance is performed by wrapping a machete in towels at either end with a portion of the knife exposed. The knife is generally lit on fire on one end and the performer begins by putting fire from the lit end into his mouth (see photo) to light the other end. With the two ends lit, the dancer performs acrobatic feats while twirling the knife around, behind his back and between his legs. Here are a few videos I shot of a performance from my last trip to Samoa.  The slow-motion videos are for you to learn the moves and practice at home: