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Te anene or songs and te mwaie or dances are held in high regard in Kiribati. The nations' dance differs from other Polynesian grooves in terms of symbolism. In Kiribati, dancers stretch their arms and imitate the movements of the Frigate bird, the country's national symbol. Smiling while dancing is strictly prohibited since dances here are not only a form of entertainment but also a way of storytelling and showing the beauty, skill and endurance of the dancers.
The country's folk music is usually based on chanting or vocalizing accompanied by body percussion. A seated chorus often performs the public performances, accompanied by a guitar.
Te kaimatoa or standing dance and te buki or hip dance are the people's formal performances, accompanied by a wooden box as the percussion instrument.
Love is often the subject in the locals' songs, but there are also chants for competitive sports, religion, patriotism, children, war and marriage. Accompanying legends and semi-historical stories are stick dances or tirere, which are performed during festivals.