A Polynesian Fire Show at Washington State University in the Terrell Mall

A Polynesian Fire Experience at “Party in the CUB” 

Earlier this month, Lion Gypzi Fire Experience (LGFX) had the honor of performing at Washington State University’s annual “Party in the CUB,” hosted by the International Students’ Council (ISC). As one of ASWSU’s largest committees and the official voice of WSU’s international student population, the ISC champions cultural exchange and celebrates the diverse communities that make Washington State University so vibrant.

This year’s event brought together many of the campus’s cultural groups — including the Asian Pacific Islander Clubs, Hawaiian Club, Polynesian Club, Japanese Club, and more — each hosting tables, performances, and fashion showcases. For the evening’s grand finale, the ISC sought something bold, immersive, and culturally inspired. Their coordinator Gracie Pham reached out saying:

"We’re looking for unique cultural performances to showcase the many cultures on campus… We would love to see if we could have a performance like yours at our event."

After discussing creative direction, logistics, and special requests, the ISC gave LGFX full artistic freedom to design a finale performance rooted in Polynesian themes while still maintaining the signature LGFX blend of fire, circus artistry, and theatrical experience.

Building the Performance: A Cultural Fire Fusion

To meet the moment, Lion Gypzi assembled a powerhouse team:

• 4 Fire Performers – Lion Saywer, Tee Giacalone, Dori Williams, Lucas Cook
• 2 Fire Safety Technicians and Media  – Mykah Sawyer, Angel Kintz
  

While LGFX occasionally performs at luaus and incorporates Polynesian dance and Samoan fire-knife–inspired sequences, our shows are inspired by — not strictly bound to — traditional Polynesian performances. Our troupe is a diverse collective of artists dedicated to honoring cultural themes while blending them with fire arts, circus movement, and immersive audience participation.

Once WSU approved the fire logistics, it was official: LGFX was heading to Pullman.

The Journey to Pullman

The road to WSU was an adventure in itself — a five-hour drive over the cold Snoqualmie Pass in November. With gear loaded, fuel packed, and performers bundled up, the LGFX performance team made its way from Seattle to Pullman, ready to bring heat to a cold Eastern Washington night.

We arrived after dark, the wind biting and the temperature dropping, but the energy on campus was electric. We began unloading equipment onto Glenn Terrell Mall — WSU’s central outdoor walkway surrounded by campus buildings and student foot traffic. As the fire props were prepped and safety zones established, students gathered, buzzing with anticipation for the night’s main act.

The Show: A Polynesian Fire Spectacle in the Heart of WSU Campus

Lion Gypzi Fire Experience (LGFX) lit up Terrell Mall with a powerful, visually stunning Polynesian-inspired fire performance that transformed the heart of Washington State University into a glowing sea of light. The evening began with lively crowd warm-ups and icebreakers, designed to energize the audience and break down barriers from of interacting with the perfromers. Students laughed, cheered, and interacted with the performers as they where being introduced, creating an immediate sense of connection and excitement.

The performance then erupted into Samoan fire knife–inspired choreography, featuring a fierce spinning sequences, that sent trails of flame that lit up the ground and cool night sky. The energy was electric as LGFX showcased each artist. The crowd gasped when the team introduced fire breathing, filling the air with bursts of flame that illuminated the faces of hundreds of onlookers. Later the performers unveiled fire poi, fire fans, fire trident, dragonstaff, and burst of lyco torches,

As the finale built to its peak, LGFX invited students to join the experience — a signature hallmark of our shows. The audience jumped in with enthusiasm, participating in fire limbo, interactive fire games, and fire-bubble photo opportunities that brought the entire community together in play and awe. Phones lit up the mall as students captured photos with fire props and performers, concluding the night with a highly engaged crowd.

The Crowd Reaction: WSU Loved It

The response from WSU students and ISC staff was immediate and overwhelming. The show created a wave of cheers, laughter, and deeply engaged participation. By the end of the night, the ISC team let us know:

"LGFX is invited back for next year’s cultural celebration."

Performing at Washington State University was an honor — and we’re humbled that our fire show left such an impact on the Cougar community.

Looking Ahead

Lion Gypzi Fire Experience is committed to creating inclusive, powerful, and culturally inspired fire entertainment for universities, corporate events, festivals, and community celebrations across Washington State.

Whether on Terrell Mall at WSU, a luau in Seattle, or a private event at your home, our fire performers, fire props, safety crew, and production team always bring passion, professionalism, and heart.

Book a Fire Show with LGFX --->

Mahalo & Go Cougs 🔥🐾

Thank you, Washington State University, for welcoming us into your community and for giving LGFX the opportunity to ignite the night on your campus.

Until next year — stay warm, stay bold, and stay luminous.
— Lion Gypzi Fire Experience

Photo Courtesy: Arthur