LONDON 01 September 2023 – Sentro Rizal London organized a Workshop on Philippine Folk Dances entitled, “Dancing Through Time: Embracing Our Filipino Heritage,” at Amberley Clubroom, Westminster, on 01 September 2023.

The program included a discussion on the history and importance of Philippine folk dances conducted by Mr. Ronaldo Del Barrio, Creative Director of Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe (PBFDT)-Manila and Founder and Artistic Director of Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Company (LKDC)-London, followed by a masterclass/workshop on indigenous Filipino dances, namely, Binanog, Hagabi, Polka sa Nayon, Sua Sua and Tinikling. Some members of PBFDT also performed Filipino music using banduria, octavina, bamboo castanets and bamboo sticks.

In her welcome remarks, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Rhenita B. Rodriguez stressed the importance of promoting awareness and appreciation of the Philippines’ cultural heritage through dance and music, especially among second- and third-generation Filipino-British youth who wish to connect with their roots.

A highlight of the event was the Sua Sua dance performance of the participants wherein they displayed the skills they learned from the workshop. Sua Sua is a courtship dance where dancers communicate with each other through the use of fans and through their movements.

Madame Maria Lourdes B. Locsin graced the event which was attended by Filipino-British youth, members of the Filipino community and Embassy personnel.

Filipino food was served during the day-long activity and tokens of appreciation were distributed among the participants. END