Despite another New England snowstorm this week, the Filipino Cultural Society will heat up Cohen Auditorium tonight with their cultural show "Samahan."
"Samahan" means "togetherness" in the indigenous Filipino language, Tagalo. It makes for a suitable title, given the nature of the program, which also incorporates performances by the Tufts Dance Collective and the Chinese Students Association. The acts consist of a journey through various Filipino customs, as well as a broad range of musical and performance styles. In the end, however, the mixture blends into a distinctly unique identity, one that well characterizes the multitude of styles, traditions and music of the Philippine Islands.
Many dancers said that learning about new pieces was the best part of taking part in the show. "When I was growing up, it was very different. By doing this, I learned of certain dances that I had no idea existed," says Katrina Pabon, a freshman who is taking part in "Asik," a Muslim dance in the show.
Each number tells a story through song, movement and color. The opening act, "Vota Paragua," includes a bright display of lights, castanets and black silk. With sharp turns on elegant heels, it is a reminder of Spain's flaming flamenco tradition; yet tonight, the dance will be performed in a distinctly Filipino-style, set to the "Maria-Clara Suite."
Every act also carries a different element of the rich island culture. "Sing Kil," for example, is a large group effort, and includes several pairs of large bamboo sticks, which the dancers use to create an intricate beat.
The Filipino Cultural Society's co-president, junior Natalie Velasco, has worked diligently at coordinating the acts and transitions of the show. "'Sing Kil' is a very solemn dance," Velasco says, taking a moment to pause and reflect on the legend it represents. "No music, just bamboo. It is the story of a princess trapped in a forest. The bamboo represents the trees falling. She is trying to escape from them until her prince rescues her."
Other dances are not as solemn, but require greater coordination. In "Binasuan," another traditional dance, girls emerge carrying lights on their heads. This routine demonstrates balancing skill and gracefulness. "Idaw," in contrast, is a warlike tribal hop, complete with sound effects and quick, controlled movements. The group also dances the traditional "Tinikling," or "bamboo dance," known as the national dance of the Philippines. In this number, dancers adroitly skip among bamboo poles that are clapped rhythmically like a jump rope - but taken to a whole different level.
Freshman Katrina Sison notes the variety of the numbers: "They combine modern and traditional; it's a mix of different cultures and influences. That's what makes the show really interesting."
The show is not just about dancing and singing; it has helped some students rediscover their backgrounds. John-Paul Fontelo, a senior, talked about the connection the Filipino Cultural Society has had to his own culture. To him and others, participating in traditional dances has evoked a greater understanding of the various traditions of the Islands.
"While growing up, I was always aware of my Filipino background," Fontelo said. "I hadn't really been familiar with it. Although it is a small community, FCS at Tufts has really helped me to get in touch with my heritage; these opportunities are extremely important."
He agrees that the theme of togetherness is the central core of the program in more ways than one. "A wide variety of types of people decide to participate in cultural activities at Tufts," Fontelo said. "It's not exclusionary by any means, and I think that's great. Different people come, not only because they share a background or an interest, but also because they know people and are friends with those who participate. It grows to be more than a club for just dancing, but a circle of friends."
Prior to the show, at 6:30 p.m. in Alumnae Lounge, the Filipino Cultural Society will be serving traditional food from the Islands.
