Filipino Royal Dance
Kamusta ka!
I want to tell you a story, my story, about the dances of my Filipino ancestors and the beautiful lessons they left for us. You see, every dance we learn is more than steps, music, and costumes. Each one carries a message about who we are, what we value, and how we treat one another. I taught you three very special dances, each close to my heart.
Singkil: The Dance of Respect
When I teach you Singkil, I am not just teaching you how to move between bamboo poles like a graceful princess or a brave prince. I am teaching you respect. In the story of Singkil, the princess moves with dignity and strength. The prince does not chase her or force her to notice him. Instead, he shows admiration by standing tall, moving gently, and protecting her path.
This is what I want you to remember:
“Respect is the heart of courtship.
A boy honours a girl.
A girl honours herself.
And both honour each other.”
When you dance Singkil, you carry that respect in every step.
Cariñosa: The Dance of Affection and Community
The next dance I shared with you is the Cariñosa, a dance full of sweetness, joy, and connection. When you hide behind your fans and handkerchiefs, when you smile shyly at your partner, you are showing the gentle way Filipinos express love. The Cariñosa is meant to feel like a cheeky game of hide-and-seek between a boy and a girl, playful, shy, and full of affection.
We dance the Cariñosa during weddings, fiestas, and special moments because it brings people together. It reminds us that love can be soft, playful, and kind. And when you dance it, you help keep that kindness alive.
Tinikling: The Dance of Agility and Unity
And of course, your favourite, Tinikling. Tinikling is one of the most beloved traditional Filipino folk dances, passed down through generations. When you jump between the bamboo poles, you learn more than timing and rhythm.
You learn trust.
You learn teamwork.
You learn courage.
You learn to listen to each other.
You learn to move as one.
You learn that even when the rhythm gets fast, you can keep going, together.
That is the Filipino spirit!
After we rehearsed all three dances, we held a concert to show the other teachers what we had learned. It was very special to watch you all put everything together and bring my vision to life. You danced with pride. You honoured my culture. You made the whole room feel the beauty of being Filipino.
Every time we dance, you celebrate your culture, and you carry our stories into the future.
I teach you these dances because I want you to grow not only as good dancers, but as good people, respectful, loving, united, and proud of who you are.
When you dance at festivals, school events, or even just in our classroom, I see the beauty of our culture shining through each of you.
Lots of love,
Genna xxx
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