Our Directors

With their lineage stemming from Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and Tokelau, both Noa and Jeannie Napoleon were born into families who entertained, taught and preserved the Polynesian culture. With the love, support, and blessings of their teachers and mentors at Nonosina and Tavake Rereata, the talented couple created their very own dance school in San Diego, HIVA KATOA, which has reached up to 300 students since their establishment in December 2016. Together, the Napoleons have trained the most award winning overall soloists in San Diego County. Since their existence, they have brought back multiple awards including multiple 1st place and overall soloists, best costume, best drumming, best music, and recently bringing home Overall Group at Hura Tahiti of Southern California in 2018 and the Kiki Raina Tahiti in March 2024. Additionally, they have been recognized by their peers as respected leaders and mentors within the Polynesian community who are known for their authentic and mesmerizing performances. If they’re not at the studio, you’ll find them spending time with their 4 children and 2 dogs at a sporting event!