The dances are characterized by vivid colors and rhythmic movements which reflect the influence of the virtues and nobility of the Filipina woman.
These dances reached their zenith in popularity around the turn of the century, particularly among urban Filipinos. Displaying a very strong Spanish influence, these dances were, nonetheless, "Filipinized" as evidence of the use of bamboo castanets and the abanico, or Asian fan.
Filipino dance continues to be an expression of community life that animates various rituals and ceremonies. It serves for self-edification of the performers and entertainment for the spectators.
Here they dance to appease their ancestors and gods to cure ailments, to insure successful war-mating activities,or to ward off bad luck or natural calamities.
In the Phillipines the people dance to congregate and socialize, for general welfare and recreation, and as an outlet for repressed feeling. They also dance to insure bountiful harvests, favorable weather, and to mark milestones in the cycle of life.
To the Filipinos, dances illustrate the fiesta spirit and demonstrate a love of life for all occassions. It expresses a joy in work, a love for music, and pleasure in the simplicities of everyday living. |
