25 Years of Celebrating Filipino Culture

AB Samahan, an SDSU student organization, will present its annual free production April 16-17.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Filipino Cultural Night will feature a variety of traditional Filipino music and dance. Photo credit: Brian Figueroa
Filipino Cultural Night will feature a variety of traditional Filipino music and dance. Photo credit: Brian Figueroa

It’s a silver anniversary for Filipino Cultural Night (FCN) and 1,200 people are invited to the celebration.

Hosted by San Diego State University's Filipino-American student organization Andres Bonafacio Samahan, 2010 marks the 25th production of FCN in the organization’s 39-year history. Aimed at providing a culturally enriching experience for students and the community, the Joan Kroc Theatre will host this year’s FCN performance.

FCN looks into the future

While many productions have addressed past or present issues within the Filipino and Filipino-American community, this year’s performance, For Generations to Come, will look into the future. In 2035, Filipino Americans live in a digital age that has lost sight of community and the key to preserving their heritage.

The play follows four Filipino Americans over the course of 25 years. Starting with a college student’s inspirational professor, the story continues when he revisits his university only to find his professor dispassionate.

Later, two characters show divergent paths in renewing interest in Filipino pride at the imaginary university. The futuristic setting displays the possible fate of Filipino culture. While issues addressed in the production reflect the Filipino-American community, situations in the play are relatable to any viewer.

Message of community

“Many Filipino-Americans learn about their culture through their elders or in college. The main message of this show is ‘community,’” said Jennifer Amos, FCN coordinator. “If we don’t share our stories and help future generations, our community and culture may be lost.”

For Generations to Come takes place at 7 p.m., April 16-17, at the Joan Kroc Theatre at 6845 University Avenue near SDSU. Pre-show begins at 6:30 p.m. with a talent show featuring AB Samahan members. Tickets are free, but must be requested by contacting [email protected]. Each person is entitled to a maximum of seven tickets.

About AB Samahan

Andres Bonifacio Samahan is the Filipino-American student organization at San Diego State University. Founded in 1971, AB Samahan's objective is to support educational enrichment and advancement through organized leadership, academic learning and enriching Filipino cultural awareness on the SDSU campus and in the San Diego community.

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