This year our Muslim dances are: Kappa Malong-Malong, Silong sa Ganding, and Singkil.

The Muslim suite highlights the differences between groups. In the dances, there is the royalty versus the outcasts. In the skit, the differences between activists and non-activists, Filipinos and non-Filipinos, and Filipinos and Filipino-Americans are highlighted. Despite these perceived differences, the groups are united by struggles and we are able to see that it is possible to stand in unity and solidarity together.

Kappa Malong-Malong

This dance, originating from the Maranao tribes of Mindanao, shows the many ways of wearing a malong, a tubular, woven, multi-colored cloth. A malong has many functions like a skirt, blanket, and a prayer mat. It can have other purposes, depending on how creative the user is. For this dance, the males are being showcased.

Silong sa Ganding

A form of Pangalay, or pantomime, that accentuates the hands amid the royal way of walking. It is a favorite among royal courts and requires a lot of discipline because of precise hand positions and placements.

Singkil

There are many different versions of Singkil. Takes its name from the word meaning “to entangle one’s feet in vines or objects in your path.” Performed during celebrations and as festive entertainment, the dance is derived from an epic of the Maranao people, in which a princess is trapped in a forest during an earthquake that showcases the princess’ graceful dodging of the trees until found by a prince.

 

Past Muslim dances

2018 – Mangalay Tambours, Singkil

2017 – Burong Talo, Kappa Malong-Malong, Vinta

2016 – Paunjalay, Janggay, Katubao, Pindulas