King Charles to dance during Samoa visit
Charles to participate in traditional dance during Samoa visit
King Charles III should get ready to dance during his upcoming visit to Samoa. Freddie Tuilagi ensured this when he recently visited St. James’ Palace, dressed only in a traditional bark cloth wrap and a necklace worn by orator chiefs. In a blue suit and neatly tied tie, Charles smiled as he tried to keep up with Tuilagi’s traditional dance steps. “He loves it. He said he wants to learn the dance,” Tuilagi remarked afterward, demonstrating his moves once more.
Tuilagi, who relocated to Britain to pursue a professional rugby career, mentioned that the 75-year-old monarch can expect a similar welcome when he arrives in Samoa on Wednesday. Villagers across the nation of 220,000 people are preparing decorations to show their appreciation for Charles’ visit. As the symbolic head of the Commonwealth, Charles is traveling to Samoa for a meeting with top officials from the 56 independent nations in the organization. The fight against climate change, a cause Charles has supported for years, tops the agenda.
Samoans are likely to be very receptive to Charles. The islands are at the forefront of the climate crisis, facing rising sea levels, warming ocean temperatures, and more severe storms. This royal visit is drawing global media attention. Many Samoans hope that images of the king and Queen Camilla on the stunning beaches will attract European tourists and boost the local economy.
King Charles is always up for a fun time 😂
Chief Samoan dancer Freddie Tuilagi, a former rugby league player, invited The King to join in the Samoan Welcome Dance.#KingCharles pic.twitter.com/0BjMZahXFW
— The Prince (@freedom_007__) October 2, 2024
“It’s an opportunity to showcase our culture, showcase our heritage and how proud we are as a country,” Tuilagi told the press. “To host the king and the leaders of the Pacific, the Commonwealth coming to Samoa is something special for us.”
Tuilagi hopes his demonstration of Samoan dance and song will benefit the king upon his arrival. He aimed to leave a lasting impression, especially with his national dress, which excludes a shirt. Tuilagi summed it up with a chuckle, “It’s not every day the king will see a chief from Samoa topless at the palace.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- Bastille Post: King Charles III’s visit to Samoa will highlight climate change and traditional Samoan dance, showcasing the country’s culture and resilience amidst environmental challenges.(read more)
- AP News highlights King Charles III’s upcoming visit to Samoa, emphasizing a lively dance performance and discussions on climate change at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What did Freddie Tuilagi wear to St. James’ Palace?
A traditional bark cloth wrap and a necklace worn by orator chiefs.
What did King Charles III do during Tuilagi’s visit?
He smiled and tried to keep up with Tuilagi’s traditional dance steps.
Why is King Charles III visiting Samoa?
For a meeting with top officials from the 56 independent nations in the Commonwealth.
What tops the agenda for King Charles’ meeting in Samoa?
The fight against climate change.
How do Samoans hope the royal visit will benefit them?
They hope it will attract European tourists and boost the local economy.
