FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2009
Vancouver’s Premiere Contemporary Dance Artist and Vancouver’s Premiere Filipino Folk Dance Company Present: “TINIKLING (Bamboo Dance)”
(Vancouver, BC, Canada) Alvin Erasga Tolentino and Kababayang Pilipino will explore a deconstruction and experimentation of “Tinikling” a world-renowned dance of the Philippines on Sunday, May 24, 2009, at the Scotiabank Dance Centre.
Co.ERASGA Dance, in collaboration with Kababayang Pilipino, will take the traditional Filipino dance of Tinikling to a new dimension and present it with a contemporary approach, as initiated and envisioned by Co.ERASGA’s Artistic Director, Alvin Erasga Tolentino. The presentation will also feature a dialogue with the Artistic Director, giving the audience insight into the process of experimentation. A reception will follow, featuring Filipino food and refreshments. Co.ERASGA’s Alvin Erasga Tolentino will contribute a new solo work performed by himself, entitled “meeting umbuh” recently premiered in Ottawa’s “B.C. Scene Celebration of Artists”. A renowned soloist for his hybrid and diverse creation and performance, Tolentino has presented dances across the globe. Kababayang Pilipino will also be debuting a new work entitled “Habi”, inspired by the indigenous people, collectively called the Lumads. “Habi”, a Tagalog word literally translated as “to weave”, is an expression of the melting pot of cultures that is representative of Mindanao. Since 1993, Kababayang Pilipino has been wowing its audiences with its dynamic and dramatic traditional Filipino dance interpretations complemented by its authentic and brilliant costuming and fiery live musical accompaniment.
Under the direction of Randy Romero, Kababayang Pilipino continues to push the boundaries, taking what is essentially folk and making it contemporary and relevant. From its desire to discovering new horizons, while committing to preserving the authenticity of its presentations, Kababayang Pilipino, while always looking back to its new roots, continues to propel itself forward as one of the premiere Philippine folk dance companies in Canada.
With an ensemble of over 30 members, comprised mainly of first-generation Filipinos, Kababayang Pilipino is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the Filipino folk heritage through its presentation of dance and music. This vibrant group provides the opportunity for its members to educate themselves and in turn, the community at large about the rich history and culture of the Filipino. Conceived for youth, by youth, Kababayang Pilipino is ever inspired by each new generation of young people who are eager to discover something of themselves by learning something of the Filipino people to which they are tied in culture, bound in hearth and indelibly marked in spirit.
“Tinikling” is a one-time performance on Sunday, May 24th at 3:00pm at the Scotiabank Dance Centre. Tickets are $20 and are available at the door, or by reservation by contacting the KP Information Line at 604-650-7276 or info@kababayangpilipino.org.
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Media Inquiries:
VeeJay Correa
T: 604-650-7276
E: info@kababayangpilipino.org
www.kababayangpilipino.org
