Kultura Pilipinas will host “Bridging the Gaps,” its first
Filipino culture night event since 1999, today in the Agate Hall
Auditorium.
KP Co-Director Christine Cruz said the show will celebrate Filipino culture with a skit depicting a “typical Filipino household,” various cultural dances, a fashion show, martial arts demonstrations and a presentation about famous Filipino entertainers like Enrique Iglesias and Foxy Brown.
Cruz, who is half Filipino, said she only recently began to identify with her heritage, which is why she decided to take on a strong role
in the organization of this year’s culture night.
“Filipinos have such a beautiful culture,” she said. “Our history’s been erased.”
Cruz said the character she plays in the skit, Lola, acts like the stereotypical Filipino grandmother.
“I’m going to act with the best of my ability by imagining my Filipino grandfather speaking to me,” she said. “It always puts a smile on my face when I think about my grandparents.”
KP Co-Director Jeff Boyce will be rapping in Tagalog, the national Filipino language, with underground rap partner Kalamandikii during the performance. He said members have worked hard to revive the club and reestablish the Filipino culture at the University, with great success.
“We have made the presence of Filipino culture on campus known,” Boyce said. “This revival year has allowed Kultura Pilipinas to come back and be here
to stay.”
During the performance, KP members will engage the audience in a language lesson, teaching them basic Filipino words and phrases. At the end of the night, everyone will sing a modern-day acoustic song together.
Cruz and Boyce said concepts of togetherness and community have been the driving forces behind the effort to reinforce the existence of Kultura Pilipinas on campus.
“Filipinos are one of the most welcoming and hospital people you’ll ever meet,” Cruz said. “This culture night will represent the true meaning of Filipino culture and heritage through its warmth and hospitality.”
Cruz said 70 percent of club members aren’t even Filipino
by heritage.
“We are always looking for new members and welcome them with wide open arms,” she said.
Admission is free. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m. The auditorium is located on 17th Avenue and Agate Street.