Batangas cultural group enchants audience in Illinois
A group of high school students from Bauan, Batangas province recently showcased the Philippines’ rich culture in Illinois, US.
The Sining Kumintang ng Batangas are internationally-acclaimed ambassadors of Philippine culture whose members are mostly high school students from Bauan.
“They’re so lucky they were chosen, but they need to perform, they need to audition, and at the same time, be ready for this kind of performance because it is so hectic,” said Cecile Cordero-Diaz, choreographer.
It all began in 1992, when Bauan High School put together this extraordinary dance troupe.
“Sobrang blessed po ako, at sobrang thankful po ako kay God kasi binigyan niya po ako ng ganitong talent. I never thought, I never expected na makarating ako dito sa America,” said Juvylyn Manalo, a performer from the Bauan High School.
Sining Kumintang immediately rose to international fame after their spectacular 1995 debut in Japan. From then on, the group has been invited to perform all over the world.
First time viewers in Niles, Illinois were mesmerized by their enchanting performances.
“I think it’s beautiful, the costumes are just gorgeous and the dancing is more than I expected,” said Katie Ortmann, a resident of Skokie, Illinois.
“Oh my God, I’m so glad I came and got to experience this. And the dancers are phenomenal. They should be proud of themselves,” said another resident, Kristina Loy.
The Sining Kumintang fundraiser show was organized by the Niles West Filipino Club with the help of “And You Gave Me Food, INC.”
They are hoping to raise at least US$20,000 to benefit various charities in the Philippines.
“Halos taon-taon po, ako’y umuuwi sa Pilipinas, nakikita ko po talaga ang hirap ng mga kababayan natin dun. At kanya naging misyon naming tumulong sa kababayan natin sa pagtanaw ng utang na loob sa mga grasyang nakukuha namin dito,” fundraiser-organizer Juanito Roque said.
The success of Sining Kumintang ng Bauan, Batangas has been beyond what other high school dance troupes could ever imagine. Reports from Don Tagala, ABS-CBN North America Bureau News Niles, Illinois
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