Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Grand Re-Opening Party in Oahu

 
 By Bixyl Shuftan


On Sunday August 25, there was a grand re-opening party in the Oahu sim. The news was announced by Twstd Ruggles, who had owned the place years ago, and now was running it once more.

Aloha friends!!! I am happy to announce that Oahu Paradise Island is completed and open for all to come enjoy the many attractions and experiences we have set up for your paradise getaway experience.   Oahu (106,168,30)


The party had started with live music from Ichie Kamachi. Following her was a performance with Polynesian dancers. After them, a DJ would play some music. 
 

 
Twstd Ruggles had told me she had sold the place a few years ago, but the old owner had up and abandoned the place, and was contacted by Linden Lab, asking if she wanted it once more. She greeted people as they arrived, "Aloha, welcome to the Oahu!" 
 
Smoking Goat would talk some about Hawaiian dance, "Polynesian music and dance are integral parts of the culture and traditions of the Polynesian islands. They serve as artistic expressions that reflect the history, values, and daily life of the islanders. 
 
"Polynesian music is deeply rooted in social traditions and rituals. It primarily uses percussion instruments such as the pahu (a hollowed wooden drum), toere (a slit drum), fa’atete (a small drum), and ipu (gourds used for beating or rubbing). Choral singing often accompanies the instruments, creating harmonious and rhythmic melodies. Polynesian dances are diverse and vary in style depending on the islands and regions. Here are some of the most well-known dances:


Hula: A traditional Hawaiian dance characterized by smooth, flowing movements that tell stories through the dancers’ gestures.

Tamure: A dance from Tahiti known for its fast movements and footwork, emphasizing the strength and vigor of the dancers.

Otea: A spectacular dance from the island of Rurutu, featuring energetic and precise hand and foot movements, along with traditional costumes made from coconut fiber and pandanus leaves.

"The costumes used in Polynesian dances are made from natural materials such as plant fibers, flowers, shells, and feathers. Traditional attire reflects the strong connection Polynesians have with nature.

"Polynesian music and dance are not only forms of entertainment but also ways to convey cultural values, history, and myths. They are closely linked to religious ceremonies and social rituals, serving to celebrate life and significant events."

Smoking Goat would also say that there was a performance at the  Royal Opera Ballet, directed by Ina Garnier and Andy Loon, featuring Polynesian dance. 

Twstd would also tell me that the USS Arizona Memorial, located in the southeast part of the island, had been reworked with mesh. The Newser will get a picture later.


Charlee and I dropped by, and danced away to the music and had fun. People continued to arrive, and cheer at the island, how it looked, and it's return, "Three Cheers for Twstd! So glad that OAHU is BAAAAAACK! Hip Hip Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray!" And they enjoyed the party, "What better way to celebrate the return of Oahu?!"

The Oahu island is a public area, though some cottages are private homes. There are also some available for temporary rent for a vacation.

Bixyl Shuftan
 
 

Monday, August 26, 2024

Xavier Theibaud's Farewell Party

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

 
As a follow up to the interview with Xavier Theibaud I wanted to let you know I was happy to make it to the final showing of The little Prince with Andy Loon (Szerewp Loon) playing the part of the prince and to the after party, all in honor of Xavier. 
 
 
You read the interview with Bixyl the other day. The Little Prince is a fantasy childhood story that has been adapted and presented in at the Royal Opera in Second Life for many years and makes observations about life, adults and human nature.


I was friends with his partner in Second Life and real-life, Raftwet Jewell, and Xavier also, for many years. That is an old photo of both of them from way back. Loosing her was such a shock to all of us and a huge loss to Xavier who was her partner not only in SL but in RL. It was surprising when he called to tell me he was leaving Second Life. I am one of those who told him perhaps he would come back after time passes. There are so many who do that.

Time will tell.


The after party was lovely and I did get a chance to dance with Xavier, perhaps for the last time.

Many friends attended the party to dance the night away. But they were there to pay homage to Xavier’s second life. I hope his real life will be interesting and peaceful and he will live it to the fullest.

 

The A-List will go on and all the art and activities will continue with the very capable well known Ava Jhamin taking over. But Xavier will be missed by so many in his varied interests in art and culture in Second Life. You can see scenes from the party here thanks to Henri Fouquet @ The Royal Opera Garnier.

The last tunes played by the DJ were related to his leaving, last tune “I Did IT MY WAY” 


With a tear in my eye I say Bye Xavier.. you did do it your way.

Gemma Cleanslate