Lumad Basakanon prepares a volcano surprise
With 24 years of experience in Sinulog competitions behind them, the Lumad Basakanon will give spectators a visual surprise today with an anime-inspired “nature versus nature” dance in the parade’s Free Interpretation (FI) category.
Expect to see a “volcanic eruption” that will destroy a forest where earth warriors put out the fire with their faith in the Sto. Niño, said choreographer Norman Navarro.
Minimalist theme
Cebu City’s hometown favorite, the Lumad Basakanon with their precise, synchronized choreography, was declared Sinulog Champion in the FI category in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2008.
A riser will be filled with dancers in earth-colored costumes to represent a volcano spewing lava.
“It’s more about the dance than props,” he told Cebu Daily News.
Navarro said they can’t afford expensive props and are making-do with the P800,000 financial assistance from barangay Basak San Nicolas in Cebu City to fund their contest entry. Meals at rehearsals are sponsored by private donors.
“I envy local government units which are able to spend millions for their contingents,” he said, a factor that counts if Sinulog contest judges favor “playground demonstrations” filled with huge, colorful props.
Lumad Basakanon placed second in last year’s dance competition and is eyeing the top prize this year.
“It’s been a while since we won the championship but the group survived and remain intact. We never give up. We know the purpose of our existence which is to make an offering through dance,” he said.
Navarro said their discipline, love for dance and their understanding of the importance of faith keeps the group together.
They look forward to a good showing in the Sinulog this year as they prepare for the Basakanons 25th year anniversary next year.
They have 100 dancers, 100 propsmen and 50 instrumentalists.
Choreographer Dennis Navarro, Norman’s brother, said they opted to bar their lead dancer, Rose Jane Ariza, from joining the festival queen competition so she could focus on their dance rehearsals.
“We have instilled in the minds of our dancers that we will win and if we win, it’s not because fewer out-of-town contingents joined in the Sinulog this year,” he said. Chief of Reporters
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