To celebrate its 25th Anniversary, Culture Philippines of Ontario (CPO) together with its presenting sponsor Dr. Victoria Santiago & Associates presents: Malakas at Maganda (The Philippine Legend) at Living Arts Centre in Mississauga - Hammerson Hall. The show includes traditional Philippine dances, popular and hip hop dances and songs.

The show was conceptualized and directed by CPO's Artistic Director and Choreographer, Ms. Eno Mescallada-Kalash. Eno was the lead dancer of the famous Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company in the Philippines and rose to become its dance researcher, trainer and director before migrating to Canada. She was also the Assistant to the Philippine National Artist for Dance, Mrs. Lucrecia Urtula. Eno joined CPO in 2002 and has brought CPO to its excellent performance quality by introducing many unpublished dances and correcting all previously learned dances, steps and movements. She has brought CPO to join international dance groups in festivals such as, Mondial des Culture Festival in Drummondville, Quebec and International Moerberke Festival in Belgium.

CPO President, Alex Coronel stated, "The Filipino community has to know more about their country and its culture, and to develop an appreciation of their people's experiences, creativity and aspirations."

"Our 25th Anniversary presentation would be an exciting dance musical presentation that will showcase the birth of the Filipino people from its inception to the present generation of Filipinos" explained Luz del Rosario, CPO Event Chair.

Malakas at Maganda (The Philippine Legend) synopsis:
"They both had brown skin and supple bodies. The man was named Malakas, or "Strong One"; the woman, Maganda, or the "Beautiful One." Two traits which make the Filipino unique among its Asian neighbours - their strength and resiliency despite a lot of adversity and trials which come their way; and their beauty which is reflected in their surroundings."

Culture Philippine of Ontario (CPO) is a Mississauga-based non-profit organization. Please check their website at: http://www.culturephilippines.ca

Soure material from: Filipino Bulletin - January 2010 issue