Biography
Representing New Zealand on the “World Street Woman Fighter 2025” stage, ROYAL FAMILY is a world-renowned dance crew known for their precision, power, and theatrical presence. Hailing from Auckland, this elite squad has dominated the global dance scene with their intricate formations, high-energy performances, and unmatched synchronization. As one of the most influential dance crews in the world, ROYAL FAMILY seamlessly blends hip-hop, urban choreography, popping, and krump, creating a signature style that is both regal and electrifying. Their performances exude strength, unity, and a commanding presence, staying true to their name.
ROYAL FAMILY Members
Teesha
Stage name: Teesha
Full name: Teesha Taulepa
Instagram: @teesha.siale
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- Leadership Role: Teesha has been part of The Palace Dance Studio for 11 years and currently oversees the female dancers of The Royal Family Dance Crew.
- Notable Performances: She performed with Doja Cat at Coachella in 2024.
- Choreographic Contributions: Teesha has worked alongside renowned artists such as Rihanna, Doja Cat, and Lady Gaga, contributing to performances like “ABRACADABRA.”
- Social Media Presence: Beyond Instagram, Teesha engages with a broader audience on platforms like TikTok, where she shares dance content and has garnered a significant following.
- Nickname: She is affectionately known as “Lava Girl.”
Isla Potini
Stage name: Isla
Full name: Isla Potini
Birthyear: 2003
Instagram: @islapotini
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- Isla began dancing at a young age and has been a prominent member of The Royal Family Dance Crew, contributing as a lead choreographer.
- She performed at Rihanna’s Super Bowl Halftime Show and participated in the Savage x Fenty fashion show.
- Isla has collaborated with artists such as TroyBoi and Izzy La Reina, showcasing her versatility in dance styles.
- In May 2024, she performed in TOTO, a fusion of fashion and dance choreographed by Vivian Hosking-Aue, as part of the annual Pacific Dance Festival in Auckland.
- Isla has conducted dance workshops globally, sharing her expertise in the Polyswagg style, a signature of The Royal Family.
Maiya Smith
Stage name: Maiya
Full name: Maiya Smith
Birthday: November 12, 2004
Instagram: @maiyasmithh
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- Maiya Smith became an internet sensation at the age of 13, when the Ngāti Kahungunu teenager became one of the dancers in hip-hop star Ciara’s video “Level up”.
- Maiya has danced with Royal Family for 10 years
Tiare Williams
Stage name: Tiare
Full name: Tiare Williams
Birthday: 2005
Instagram: @tiare.williams
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- She has been associated with The Royal Family Dance Crew, a renowned hip-hop dance group based in Auckland, New Zealand.
- In 2021, Tiare was part of the Royal Family Development team, as announced by The Palace Dance Studio.
- She had the opportunity to tour Australia with The Royal Family, showcasing her dance skills on an international stage.
- Tiare is an alumna of Tai Wānanga ki Ruakura, a school in New Zealand, which expressed pride in her accomplishments with The Royal Family.
Harmony Kiripatea
Stage name: Harmz
Full name: Harmony Kiripatea
Instagram: @harmonykiripatea
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- Harmony had her start in The Palace with The Royal Family Varsity in 2016.
- Harmony quickly solidified her place with her talent. Having worked with Jason Derulo and Jennifer Lopez within the first few years that she was in The Palace.
- Harmony has worked with J.Lo, Jason Derulo, Rihanna, Ciara.
Azaria Ieriko
Stage name: Zari
Full name: Azaria Ieriko
Instagram: @azariaieriko
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- Azaria has been based in The Palace Dance Studio for 11 years. Having her journey start in “Bubblegum” and being one of the OG “Mini ReQuest” members.
- Throughout her time at The Palace, Azaria has danced for Rihanna, Ciara and Justin Bieber, having a viral moment at Rihanna’s Superbowl Performance, being dubbed “Ms. Marshmallow.”
Moana Davis
Stage name: Moana
Full name: Moana Davis
Birthday: January 13, 2005
Instagram: @moanadaviss
Nationality: New Zealander
Facts:
- Moana had her start in The Palace, with the crew Bubblegum in 2016, before later she training with The Royal Family Varsity.
- Moana also holds a Bachelors of Screen Production, helping out with video production projects in The Palace. Using her experience in various dance styles and directing skills to create conceptual dance videos.
- Moana has worked with Rihanna, ENHYPEN and many more.
Kylie Kippen
Stage name: Kylie
Full name: Kylie Kippen
Instagram: @kyliekippenn
Nationality: South African
Facts:
- Kylie started at The Palace with Bubblegum in 2020 and has grown in The Palace from Royal Family Varsity to The Royal Family Dance Crew.
- Despite her young age, she’s a power house within The Royal Family.
Controversies
The ROYAL FAMILY crew on World of Street Woman Fighter has faced mounting criticism following multiple controversies this season:
Firstly, viewers accused them of reusing choreography nearly identical to routines by renowned choreographer Parris Goebel, prompting backlash on social media over alleged “cheating” and disrespect.
The criticism escalated during the June 10 episode, when ROYAL FAMILY members were caught filming TikTok videos during a crucial rehearsal, instead of practicing, leading to a 50-point penalty for prioritizing social media over preparation.
Amid these issues, ROYAL FAMILY became the first team eliminated in Episode 4, trailing behind MOTIV, BUMSUP, OSAKA Ojo Gang, RHTokyo, and AG SQUAD in the global World of K-Pop mission.