Recuerdos de Europa
Like a faint echo, memories linger of the once aristocratic quarter of old Manila, where once a hermitage stood. This suite showcases the pervasive echo of four centuries of Spanish influence, augmented by Filipino style, defined by Filipino grace. The costumes are breathtaking, and the dances are alternately languid and spirited.
Aray
A Visayan favorite, dancers show sprightly steps accompanied by a song sung naughtily.
Bailes de Antano
A lively ballroom dance of two señoritas trying to lure their handsome caballeros.
Chotis
A very lively dance of lovely señoritas showing their graceful way of handling the “abaniko,” or fan. This dance comes from the town of Taal.
Habanera Botolena
A typical wedding scene during the 15th century in the Philippines with the bride and the groom performing together with their maids of honor as well as the parents.
Engañosa
An aristocratic dance, usually performed by the snobbish high society in a grand ballroom during the Spanish era. Here, the ladies show off by displaying their elegant “mestiza” dresses.
Jota Intramureña
The Jota of Iberian influence, as its name suggests, favored by the citizens that reside within their walled cities, like the old city of Intramuros in Manila.
La Jota Manileña
Like the other Jotas in Philippine folk dances, this is an adaptation of the Castillian Jota, but the castanets are made of bamboo and are only held, not fastened, to the fingers.
Jota Paragua
A dance originating from Zamboanga, displays steps with very strong Castillian influence, but using Philippine bamboo castanets.
Polkabal
Polka and Balse (waltz) are fused together in an elaborate dance incorporating the movements of a jumping crow (luksong uwak), the German Contregranz (Contragansa), and the paseo or leisure walk as performed by a lovely group of señoritas.
Putritos
A paseo reminiscent of a courtship dance originating in Tayabas, Quezon. This dance is a coquetry in its finest art form of a lady playing hard to get.
Baston
The men perform proudly a dance with the “baston,” or cane.
Timawa
A lively dance of beautiful young señoritas with parasols, reflecting the influence of Spanish colonizers.