BORACAY – The collaborative presentation of the Tumandok it Akean Performing Arts has depicted the cultural traditions and arts of the province, according to Aklan Culture and Arts Foundation, Inc. (Acafi) chairman Albert Menez.
The presentation offered an opportunity for the audience to better understand and appreciate Aklan’s cultural traditions, Menez added.
It started with the “Panigutlo: Hinuptan ni Gamhanan” a dance drama based on the “Legend of Aklan” by Leopoldo Dela Cruz which was performed by over 35 actors.
The story of Aklanon God Gamhanan and Panigutlo, the mythical deer and bearer of good luck, and Dali-anan, Paumod, and Dagasanan were also shown in the performances.
According to the legend, village hunter Dagasanan killed the mythical deer Panigutlo, which was believed to have brought good luck to the villagers of Libacao, Aklan. Gamhanan then punished the village and its men with flood and rain.
Aside from the performances, the “Tumandok” also performed Gayong-Gayong, Kiriw-kiw, Pang Abi-Abi, Baile de los Pastores, Haplik, Pahid, Saot it Madyanos, Tiksiw, and Kinaransa dances to express Aklanon’s hospitality, hard work, appreciation of beauty, and respect for elders and their native customs. Folk songs like Tuba, Mamugon Kita, Mananggete, Si Inday Mapuea-puea, and Kaming Magmamani accompanied was by Rondalla de Ibajay.
The “Pagdungaw: A Glimpse of the Past” showcased the pageantry and celebrations of Lezo’s Bayangan Festival, Enchanting Balete, Bugna it Tangalan, Nabas Bariw Festival, Ibajay Ati-Ati and Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival.
The cultural show in Kalibo, Aklan on Dec. 19 was free for the public.
Tumandok it Akean Performing Arts was created by the Acafi, former Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Foundation, Incorporated, in a joint effort with the provincial government led by Gov. Florencio Miraflores and Vice Gov. Reynaldo Quimpo.(With a report from Akean Forum/PN)
