Pasemata Taunisila, a member of the Traditional Organising Committee for the Coronation, confirmed that only seven large Tongan dances will perform during a Royal Luncheon in Nuku'alofa and the Tatakamotonga and the Lomipeau from Lapaha are not among them.

Lakalaka combines poetry music and dance in a choreographed performance by hundreds of dancers, lasting around half an hour.

The dances which assemble thousands of dancers and onlookers will include a Ma'ulu'ulu from Fua'amotu called the Tafi; a Ma'ulu'ulu by Queen Salote College; the Laione (Lion) Lakalaka from Kolofo'ou; a Soke from Ma'ufanga; a Kailao from Houma; the Ikale (Eagle) Lakalaka from Kolomotu'a; and the Fola'osi Lakalaka from Kanokupolu.

There are other Tongan dances that will be performing on other days, during the Coronation but only seven Tongan dances will perform for the king at his luncheon.

Disappointed

Although no reason was given as to why the Lapaha and Tatakamotonga Lakalaka are not included, it is understood that the king was greatly disappointed with the arson attack that burned down the Royal historical residence Uoleva at Tatakamotonga in 2005.

Tatakamotonga, however, will be performing their famous lakalaka this Saturday, July 19 at Fua'amotu in a ceremony marking the bestowing by the king of the noble title Tungi on his nephew, Hon. Sitiveni Polule'ulingana Tuku'aho.

Tungi's estates include Fua'amotu, Tatakamotonga and Navutonga in Tongatapu.

Lapaha

In Tonga's history, Lapaha the former capital of Tonga was the traditional home of the most exalted line of Tongan rulers, the Tu'i Tonga. The people of Lapaha are known for their dancing and their knowledge of the sacred and legendary lore of Tonga. The Tatakamotonga Lakalaka is the most famous of the Tongan Lakalaka.

The Tongan Lakalaka won international recognition in 2003 when it was declared by UNESCO as a "Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity".

The recognition of the Lakalaka as a world "Masterpiece" is part of a UNESCO programme for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage.