The recently concluded National Arts Month (NAM) celebration of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) was a veritable feast for the eyes and ears. The month-long activities for NAM culminated in a dance festival held in Silay, Negros Occidental last April.
Sayaw Pinoy director and NCCA dance committee head Shirley Halili-Cruz at the formal closing of National Arts Month (NAM) 2023.
The festivities was a heartening sight indeed, as we saw the youth completely involved and having a merry good time when watching the cultural feast served by the NCCA. The NAM finale also coincided with the end of Sayaw Pinoy 2023—both held in Negros Occidental.
"Zoomers" watching gleefully at the Silay Public Plaza in Negros Occidental
Who says the Gen Z, or "zoomers" as they are colloquially called, are not at all interested in the arts? Especially in Philippine culture. The kids shouted and cheered as the dancers, some specially flown-in to Bacolod by the NCCA, performed and showcased their skills and talents.
The cultural dances of the Philippines Isles were presented front and center at the recently concluded (NAM) celebrations
Arts month is usually celebrated in the month of February, but the NCCA decided to extend the celebrations to showcase the dancers to more areas in the Philippines. This is to make up as well for the two years of remote-only events, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Cultural dances were a big hit at the Sayaw Pinoy 2023 dance festival
Classical ballet was also featured alongside traditional Filipino dances
Silay City Mayor, Joedith C. Gallego, NCCA Chair Victorino Mapa Manalo, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Administration and Support Services Marichu G. Tellano, (sitting) overall Festival Director INDAK, SAYAW GALAW and outgoing Head of NCCA National Committee on Dance Dr. Shirley Halili-Cruz
NCCA ambassador Ice Seguerra was a special guest at the NAM culminating activity in Silay City
Silay City Public Plaza was packed to the brim with spectators
Not just dance, but singing as well - NAM was indeed a smorgasbord of Filipino talent
Folk music was also featured at the NAM culminating activity
Modern dance troupes were also given a chance to shine in Sayaw Pinoy 2023
Sayaw Pinoy 2023 was the perfect ending for National Arts Month 2023
Because of the extension, NAM exhibits were also presented in Sultan Kudarat and Pangasinan. Kudos to the NCCA for championing the arts and culture cause—the NAM festivities were a great success, not just in promoting the performing arts, but also in nurturing the love for Filipino culture.
(Photos courtesy of the NCCA)