FridayOL

A Dance of Respect: Protecting Indigenous Filipino Culture on the Global Stage

For many Filipinos, traditional dance isn't just about captivating audiences; it's a sacred responsibility. It’s a way to honour ancestors, preserve cultural heritage, and share the rich stories woven into each movement. Dixie Morante, a respected community leader and cultural dancer, embodies this sentiment. With her dance group, she carries the weight of this duty, ensuring that the dances they perform overseas are presented with the utmost respect and cultural sensitivity.

The Question of Cultural Appropriation

As Filipino dance increasingly graces international stages, a crucial question arises: are we celebrating and sharing, or inadvertently appropriating? The line can be blurry. While showcasing Filipino culture to a wider audience can be incredibly beneficial, it’s vital to do so in a way that respects the origins, significance, and protocols surrounding these dances. Simply performing the steps isn't enough; understanding the history, the spiritual beliefs, and the community traditions that inform each dance is paramount.

The Power of Cultural Permission

This is where the concept of “cultural permission” comes into play. It’s not about seeking blanket approval for all Filipino dances. Instead, it’s about engaging in meaningful dialogue with Indigenous Filipino communities – the true custodians of these traditions. It means understanding who holds the rights to perform specific dances, what protocols must be observed, and how the dances are meant to be interpreted and shared.

Dixie Morante and her group actively prioritize this process. They recognize that each dance holds a unique story and significance, often tied to specific regions, families, or spiritual practices. Before performing overseas, they reach out to elders, community leaders, and knowledge keepers to ensure they are representing the dances accurately and respectfully. This includes seeking guidance on costume design, musical accompaniment, and even the narrative framing of the performance.

Beyond Performance: Education and Collaboration

The responsibility extends beyond simply obtaining permission to perform. It also involves educating audiences about the cultural context of the dances. Providing informative program notes, pre-performance talks, or post-performance Q&A sessions can help audiences appreciate the depth and meaning behind the movements.

Furthermore, collaboration is key. Partnering with Indigenous Filipino artists, educators, and cultural organizations can foster a deeper understanding and ensure that the dances are presented authentically. This collaborative approach not only enriches the performance but also empowers the communities whose cultural heritage is being shared.

A Sustainable Future for Filipino Dance

Ultimately, honouring Indigenous Filipino dances overseas requires a shift in perspective. It's about moving beyond a purely entertainment-driven approach and embracing a model of cultural exchange rooted in respect, reciprocity, and collaboration. By prioritising cultural permission, education, and partnership, we can ensure that Filipino dance continues to thrive on the global stage, preserving its integrity and enriching the lives of audiences worldwide. It's a dance of respect, a dance of understanding, and a dance of shared cultural heritage.