Cultural dances are like time machines. They bring back the past through narratives in motion.
Often, they are a reflection of tradition and practices, accentuated with colorful, elaborate costumes and musical instruments or just chants.
As for the Philippines, our country boasts of a rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional dances from the regions of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
A visit to the country would not be complete withoutwitnessing a cultural show that highlights our diversity in ethnicities and cultures.
“When you go to a place, you should acquaint yourself with the local culture and the community. Meet the people and learn how they live. We will showcase this in one location,” said Simon Yang, Vice President of Sky Waterpark Cebu.
The country’s first and only waterpark located 1,200 feet above ground level, Sky Waterpark Cebu will be staging the weekly cultural extravaganza “Pasundayag”—a Visayan term for “show”—every Friday.
The 45-minute show will not only be bringing folk dances from across the country but will also dazzle with fire, have
a Polynesian touch to it, an influence from nearby islandsof the Pacific.
According to Sky Waterpark Cebu Senior Sales Manager Nelifer Orbes, the show will be divided into two parts —the first part presents
cultural dances across the country, like Tinikling and Pandango sa Ilaw, while the second part brings a touch of Polynesia through hula moves and fire dances.
“What makes us unique is the (stage) blocking. Our diners will feel like they are part of the show, meaning the dancers will be coming from the audience, with chants and live percussions,” said Orbes.
Cebu Royals Performing Group and Fire Attraction will be the mainstay performers of “Pasundayag.”
The members come from esteemed groups, such as the University of the Visayas Filipiniana Dance Troupe and the
University of Cebu Dance Company, as well as the Maharlika Folkloric de Pilipinas.
The three groups were included in Talentadong Pinoy Hall of Fame in 2012, reached the semifinals of “Pilipinas Got Talent” Season 5, and represented Cebu in a cultural exchange event in South Korea.
“Pasundayag” happens every Friday, starting June 2, at Sky Waterpark Cebu on the sixth floor of J Center Mall in Mandaue City.
The 4,200-square-meter waterpark holds a water playhouse composed of two water slides and a pool, uniquely shaped like a guitar to signify Cebu’s reputation for producing world-class guitars.