All-Filipinx-American cast portrays ‘bayanihan’ spirit through dance

Expect multiple narratives of community spirit, tenacity, and inspiring values from the Filipinx diaspora

Inquirer Manila / 08:18 PM August 17, 2023

Bayanihan Dance-Theatre spectacular unites Filipinx-American stars in South Bay | Photo from Maraya Performing Arts’ Facebook

A dance floor can become a venue for myriad stories and it’s what this all-Filipinx-American cast intends to showcase at the Bayanihan: Dance – Theatre Spectacular on Aug. 19 and 20 in South Bay, California.

Bayanihan—a Filipino term that refers to a spirit of collective effort, unity, and cooperation—is front and center in this special dance recital.

Trust us, Bayanihan: Dance – Theatre Spectacular is not your everyday dance production. It’s a vibrant exploration of the immigrant community’s search for home and belongingness “through a variety of performing art mediums.”

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Expect a display of contemporary dance, word poetry, live music, hip-hop, and electrifying music by Dr. DJ Kuttin Kandi. Plus, you’ll be swept away by the choreography of Xavier Hicks, Sean Asuncion, and Odessa Uno. Roann Mesina, a Filipinx R&B sensation from Chula Vista, will also take center stage to serenade the audience.

Presented by Maraya Performing Arts, Bayanihan: Dance – Theatre Spectacular is all about celebrating the tenacity and victories of the Filipinx community. And if you want to celebrate with other attendees over food and conversations, a post-show reception (with a $20 donation requirement) is also scheduled on the last day. Audience members are encouraged to don their best barong Tagalog and Filipiniana outfits.

If you’re planning to attend, there are limited slots available as the venue at 861 Harold Place Dr, Chula Vista, only has 40 seats available. Get your tickets at the Maraya Performing Arts website.

The movers and shakers behind the scene

The story of Maraya Performing Arts is just as awe-inspiring as the dance moves and emotions in the show. Founded by Filipino-American Anjanette Maraya-Ramey, the performing arts studio is the fruition of her vision right at the start of COVID-19 in March 2020 and, even more inspiring, after a three-year bout with leukemia. Maraya-Ramey saw the need for underrepresented artists to shine in the spotlight.