NCCA, Sen. Legarda bring 'Puso ng Pasko' to Antique

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in collaboration with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, brought the Christmas spirit to the Antiqueños with the first Visayan stop of Puso ng Pasko in Culasi, Antique, on Thursday, December 5.

Puso ng Pasko is a ballet performance that highlighted the essence of a Filipino Christmas, showcasing cherished traditions and delicacies such as Noche Buena, puto bumbong, bibingka, Simbang Gabi, and the belen. The play also emphasized the importance of community in preserving these rich cultural practices.

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ADRP) captivated the audience with their vibrant costumes and mesmerizing choreography, performing the first full-length, all-Filipino Christmas ballet. The hour-and-a-half production also featured selected local artists from Culasi, adding a heartfelt, community-centered touch to the performance.

The show was made even more memorable with a musical arrangement by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, whose work perfectly captured the festive spirit of the season.

National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes and Antique Representative AA Legarda graced the event, leading the ceremonial lighting of the town's Christmas display, which was one of the program's highlights.

ADRP continued their Visayan tour with a performance at West Visayas State University in Iloilo City on Sunday, December 8. Their tour will proceed to Victorias City, Negros Occidental, on December 11 and culminate at Miriam College, Quezon City, from December 17 to 18.