Pukapuka Nassau will be hitting the stage at next week’s Te Maeva Nui culture festival with spirited “girl power”.

The Northern group islands will feature the smallest performing arts group in the annual event with only 12 female dancers.

None of the boys in their community have shown interest, according to the group.

Despite the odds, Pukapuka Nassau have pushed through the challenges and will take the stage at the festival which will be held from Monday to Friday at the National Auditorium.

The group is led by dedicated husband and wife, Junior and Anjima Ruarau, who have managed to encourage a full team of 30 members to make the commitment, sign up and attend the rehearsal sessions at the Pukapuka Hostel.

“I guess times have changed, and maybe our boys are too busy working or with other things, so it has been really hard to get some boys on board to dance,” said Anjima.

“It has been a struggle and there hasn’t been many who want to join us in the festival or support our team.

“So, we are very lucky to have Ane Ravarua come and help us out, cutting and sewing our pareau uniforms.”

Anjima and the girls are looking forward to showcasing their culture on the stage and are confident of delivering a great performance.

The small dream team representing Pukapuka Nassau will be participating in the choir and imene tuki on Monday night, the action song on Tuesday and the ute section on Wednesday.