About Poi
The artform of poi first started with the Maori people of New Zealand. Poi, meaning "ball," were used by men and women alike to increase strength and flexibility in the wrists, elbows and shoulders. Men used this training for battle, and women used it for weaving. Women performing poi was coupled with men performing haka for celebrations, ceremonies and competitions.
Today, many people around the world spin all kinds of poi variations, from traditional style, to fire poi, to veil poi. It has also been combined with many dance forms, such as bellydance, ballet, rhythmic gymnastics and hip hop. Poi performers have also appeared in many movies and shows, the most recent of which was as a performer at The Purple Wedding in Season 4 of HBO's 'Game of Thrones.'
