The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra in performance. WEBSITE PHOTO
SAN DIEGO, California – The first and only Filipino symphony orchestra outside of the Philippines will perform on Friday, June 5 as part of the opening night festivities for the 2015 Philippine American Celebration in Balboa Park.
Led by artistic director Maestro Robert Shroder, the Los Angeles-based Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) has performed works by internationally renowned composer Ryan Cayabyab and legendary Filipino composers Felipe Padilla de Leon, Antonio Buenaventura, George Canseco, Will Cruz and Fr. Ricky Manalo.
Joining FASO on stage for a first-of-its-kind collaboration are company members from performing arts groups from San Diego and Los Angeles: Kayamanan Ng Lahi Philippine Folk Arts, Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts, PASACAT Philippine Performing Arts Company and Samahan Filipino American Performing Arts & Education Center.
On Saturday, BIBAK Youth of San Diego and two San Francisco-based arts groups, Barangay Dance Company and Likha Pilipino Folk Ensemble, are highlighted in a showcase of Lumad dances. The performances will take place at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in costuming that reflects the rich diversity of traditions and cultures found in the tribes and provinces of the islands.
“We are very excited to take the stage with our fellow Filipino American artists from San Diego and throughout the state,” said Patrick Ambrosio, event co-chair and member of Samahan. “It is truly an honor to be part of such a special performance for this event.”
The Philippine American Celebration takes place June 5-7 in Balboa Park at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion and the House of Pacific Relations lawn.
Admission to event is free and programming over the three-day weekend will include traditional and contemporary performances, exhibitions and demonstrations as well as food and merchandise vendors, a beer garden, and more.
The festivities continue the week of June 8-12 with daily, all-ages cultural performances and activities hosted by the House of the Philippines that culminate with a flag raising ceremony to mark 117 years of Philippine independence.
For more information, visit www.bpc2015pac.com. Interested sponsors and vendors are encouraged to email bpc2015pac@gmail.com or call (619) 400-7140.
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