PIÑA is inspired by Artistic Director Ralph Escamillan’s identity as a first-generation Canadian-born Filipinx. Examining how the body carries history and ancestry, this vibrant new creation considers the parallels between the physicality of the diaspora experience, and piña – a traditional Philippine fibre made from pineapple leaves. It investigates the many facets and cultural significance of the delicate yet enduring textile, in an anthropological journey through the body. Incorporating traditional folk dance, history and design, PIÑA brings together an all-Philippine cast including four dynamic performers, an original score by K!mmortal, and a multidisciplinary artistic team to celebrate cultural resilience.
Post-show talkbacks May 5 & 6.
Co-presented by The Dance Centre and SFU Woodward’s Cultural Programs
Supported through The Dance Centre’s Artist-in-Residence program
Choreography – Ralph Escamillan
Costume Design – Jill Robyn Laxamana & Ralph Escamillan
Assistant Costumer – Julay
Lighting Design – Gabriel Raminhos
Original Music and Sound Design – Kimmortal
Dancers – Justin Calvadores (swing), Ralph Escamillan, Tin Gamboa, Raul Lorenzo “Buboy” Raquitico Jr, Danah Rosales
Stage Manager – Kayleigh Sandomirsky
Consultants & Mentors
Master Piña Weaver – Carlo Eliserio
Philippine Folk Dance Mentor Peter Alcedo
Philippine Textile Historian – Sandra Castro
Philippine Textile Conservationist – Lenora Luisa A Cabili
Philippine Dress Historian – Gino Gonzales
FakeKnot gratefully acknowledges the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the British Columbia Arts Council, the City of Vancouver, The Dance Centre’s Artist-in-Residence program, Toronto Dance Theatre and Far Eastern University.
PIÑA is produced by FakeKnot, and co-produced by the National Arts Centre.
Photos by Rydel Cerezo