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The traditional Fijian communal dance is called a 'meke' and combines dancing, singing, chanting, clapping and drums.

In earlier days, mekes were performed in village settings for special occasions - typically for visiting dignitaries. Today mekes have evolved into shorter forms making them more accessible to tourists and other visitors for both entertainment and education.

The meke is much more than a dance - it is a colourful medium of transmission that has allowed important historical events, stories, legends and culture to be handed down from one generation to the next.

Often the composer of a meke remains unknown, but the dances are embellished and passed on by the daunivucu whose role it is to ensure the preservation of the custom. The daunivucu is believed to have links with the spirit world. It was during such communions with the spirits, that the daunivucu was believed to have gone into trance, chanting and swaying. During such times, it was the job of the daunivucu's disciples to watch his motions, which could later be added to particular ceremonial dances.

Apart from there being particular significance in every motion and nuance of the meke, the positioning of people during its performance is also significant. Performers and even the audience have to be in particular positions. Villagers of chiefly birth are placed in special positions during any meke - for to place them in a spot considered subordinate would be an insult.

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