The Art of Poi

Member Bleachers | Workshop

Saturday, 02/17/2024, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Presented by: Antonio Restivo

Poi is a performing art and also the name of the equipment used for its performance. As a skill toy, poi is an object or theatrical prop used for dexterity play or an object manipulation. As a performance art, poi involves swinging tethered weights through a variety of rhythmical and geometric patterns. Poi artists may also sing or dance while swinging their poi. Poi can be made from various materials with different handles, weights, and effects (such as fire).

Poi originated with the Māori people of New Zealand, where it is still practised today. Poi has also gained a following in other countries. The expansion of poi culture has led to a significant evolution of the styles practiced, the tools used, and the definition of the word “poi.”

Increase your dexterity, and movement. Fun for all ages.
This class will be in the basics of Poi and students will not be lighting anything on fire….JUST YET!!!

Additional Session Information:

  • Beginner Friendly: Yes
  • PPE Required: Not Applicable
  • Age 18+: Yes
  • PIT Crew: Not Applicable

About Presenters

Antonio Restivo

Antonio Restivo

Antonio Restivo’s career with fire started at the late age of 8 when he set his best friends backyard on fire and burned down 6 acres of property. Realizing then, it had to become a career or he would just end up in jail. With his Italian/Sicilian background, it could have gone either way! In the late 90’s he learned to spin Poi and traveled around the world spinning and teaching classes.

His safety classes developed from using Duvatyne or a wet towel, to the different types of fire extinguishers. After being in Las Vegas and working on some of the biggest pyro shows in the world, Antonio started to put a lot more focus into safety and what that means everyday. He has been a senior fire safety instructor for companies like Cirque du Soleil, Celestia, MGM and even teaching classes for Clark County Fire (mainly teaching inspectors what to look for with fire performances).