In celebration of the 2024 National Arts Month,the Culture and Arts Festival kicked off with the theme, “A celebration of Unity through Artistry” on February 29, 2024 to foster a more connected and a happier SorSU community.
The Gymnastics Ballet Squad performed the Doxology which lifted the program to a solemn start. The Philippine National Anthem was sung by Himig Sorsuenos and the SorSU Hymn by the Marching Band which set the festival in motion.
Ms. Shayne Kate A. Gozo, CAA University Coordinator gave the opening remarks. It was then followed by a message from Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto, the Campus Director. In his message, he emphasized that art has the power to transcend boundaries, to transcend language and encourage communication among people from different diversities. He encouraged everyone to appreciate art in its various forms and experience the beauty of human expression.
Along the same lines, Mr. Oliver F. Garbin, Head of Sports, Culture and Arts Services Unit said that the event was a celebration of thanksgiving for the talents of the students and a show of gratitude to the parents and the numerous people who supported the Sorsuenos. He especially thanked the League of Visual Artists for being the heroes behind this beautiful activity.
The show was staged in SorSU’s main covered court with a large number of audiences in attendance. The festival embraced both traditional and contemporary music, fusing the two seamlessly throughout the course of the event. Cheers erupted from the crowd with the perfectly executed musical pieces.
The cultural extravaganza showcased diverse performances. Highlights of the celebration included performances from award winning dancers. Tac-Sakate, the National PASUC 2024 Qualifier surprised the crowd with their electrifying dance moves. Similarly, The Gymnastics Ballet Squad infused synchronized dance steps and energy into their performances which left the audience in awe.
Equally stunning were the performances by Instrumentos De Cordo; Himig Sorsuenos; Gilwin B. Melitante (Kundiman), Regional PASUC 2024 6th Place (Vocal Solo); Kate Baluyot, Season 6 TNT Contender 2022; Jay Mar San Buenaventura, National PASUC 2024 Qualifier (Instrumental Solo) Instrumentos De Cordo member; Justine O. Esquillo & Bethy Mhel O. Goyal (duet) Regional PASUC 2024 4th Place; Justine O. Esquillo & Glenda Gobres (duet), Regional PASUC 2022 Vocal Duet Champion; Maryum Alindugan, Regional PASUC 2022 Vocal Pop Solo 1st Runner Up , Season 6 TNT Contender 2022; Dance Theater and Cultural Group, Regional PASUC 2024 3rd Place (Contemporary Dance); Virginia Puda, Regional PASUC 2024 6th Place; and Sean Aidan Hubilla, Lead Saxophonist of the Local Band Dreadhands.
Mr. Elmer D. Esplana, Band Master, Mr. Sqopqous Gonzales, Assistant Band Trainor/Band Alumnus and Johnerie Herrera, Band Leader together with the Marching Band gave a phenomenal rendition of Philippine Medley, Tanging Yaman and VST Medley. Subsequently, the Tan-Aw Live Band, Regional PASUC 2024 3rd Place remarkably performed an OPM Medley.
Throughout the event, the audience was treated to a singing and dancing extravaganza. The plethora of performances were an incredible insight into our country’s rich and colorful culture.
The event was about appreciating the beauty and differences of art. It promoted a message of unity and embracing diversity and enhanced greater appreciation of our culture.
The cultural show was organized by The Culture and Arts (CAA) headed by Mr. Roy O. Jarlego, CAA Coordinator. It was a perfect platform in showcasing SorSU’s wide array of talents and artistic skills. The festival was a huge success and concluded on a high note. (SorSU PIO)