Performing Arts - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
In 1973, a group of young, newly arrived Filipino immigrants met and soon began to socialize with Filipinos living in Toronto. From this small social club came the desire to form a dance group, showcase the cultures and traditions of the Filipinos. In 1974, the Province of Ontario issued a letter Patent incorporating Folklorico Filipino (Canada) Dance Company. The founding members of Folklorico Filipino were either former dancers, professional entertainers or artists. In retrospect, the merging of the different creative backgrounds of each individual made our approach unique and diverse. The group that had taken form was innovative, experimenting and presenting Philippine culture in a nontraditional style. Drama was also incorporated into the different folk dances. Original music scores resulted from mixing traditional sounds with new arrangements. For over 40+ years, Folklorico Filipino continually delights their audience with enjoyable and exciting programs with its innovative style of modernizing the folk dances of the Philippine cultures. This has made them distinct and recognized worldwide. In line with the objectives of Canadian Multiculturalism, Folklorico Filipino Canada (FFC) aims for the development and promotion of the Filipino identity through performing arts by: - Depicting Philippine culture through music, song, dance, and drama; - Training interested Filipinos of all ages in Philippine folk music, dance, and drama - Showing the public Philippine customs, traditions, and history through folk song, dance and drama - Encouraging Filipinos and other Canadians to discover and develop their talents and abilities and to develop their potential in the performing arts.