Reflections of a performance extraordinaire
By: by Jose Bulatao Jr.
4/30/2006
A hushed silence preceded a raised curtain that revealed bamboo poles in a circled motif with dancers in poised positions ready to delight and intrigue an audience. A Manubo village tale, cradled amidst thick rainforest and shrouded with the mists of legend, started the final performance of Ramon Obusans Ballet Folklorico de Filipinas on Saturday, March 18, 2006 at the Blaisdell Concert Hall in Honolulu, presented by the East-West Center and the University of Hawaii at Manoa and in collaboration with the Filipino Centennial Celebration Commission, to celebrate its theme, One Hundred Years and beyondand as a signature event highlight featured state-wide.

The lifes work of cultural anthropologist Ramon Obusan, a testament to research and study combined with a flair for artistic and creative expression, forged the foundations for a performance extraordinaire that, in turn, held the audience enraptured through breathtaking drama, the delight of nostalgic moments, and with customs, songs, and dances that extolled the complexities of regional variations that come from a nation of peoples who live among 7,000 islands. Throughout an evenings program that delivered the intricacies of movement and styles, the nimbleness of fingers on stringed instruments and the power of hands beating rhythmic percussive dynamics, the brilliance of shimmering sequined costumes or hand-woven, hand-embroidered attire and accessories, the essence of the Filipino remained center-stage with each nuance, each movement, each gesture, and each sound.

With light and shadow intensifying the visual impacts from moment to moment; with vivid portrayals of primitive rituals replaced by charm, grace, and demure dispositions contrasted with gallantry and dignity; with frivolity, dexterity and humor interwoven with traditions and customs, the performance was a resplendent representation of influences upon the Philippines and the heritage that has been derived by those influences.

Equally astounding was the opportunity to witness the cast and crew off-stage as well as on-stage, and before as well as after the performance. Without exception, their devotion to their mission, apparent through their discipline, their focus, their work ethic, their camaraderie, and their delightful charm as individuals, was consistently evident.

Perhaps, they will appear taller when they get back to the Philippines. They may appear to be travel-worn, but yet, with a radiant inner-glow that defies fatigue. They may have a far-away look in their eyes as they remember where they performed and how they have impacted the lives of their audiences. Express your gratitude to each of them as you welcome them home. Thank them for being the finest representatives of the Philippines to have graced the outside world with their presence. Let them know that the Pearl of the Orient may now be considered as the Gemstone of the Pacific.

Their visas should include some mention as being Diplomats of the Highest Degree: Representatives Extraordinaire of the Philippines.

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