Semmek – In Honor of the Indigenous Tribes of the Philippines
Semmek is named after a unique fabric woven by the Yakan tribes from the island of Basilan, Philippines. Back in the days, Yakan women traditionally made textiles for their cultural dress known as the Semmek, made from abaca, pineapple and bamboo fibers grown on the island. Today, it is called Tenun.
In honor of the Indigenous tribes of the Philippines, the three cultural groups of the Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc., the Musikong Kawayan-Bamboo Ensemble, the Philippine Choral Group, and the Philippine Performing Arts Dance Company, Inc. presented specially choreographed dances from the Yakan, TBoli, Blaan, and the Tagabili tribes of the Philippines, and original music composition by Nhick Ramiro Pacis, with Yakan dialect translations by Vicky Siazon through the efforts of Vivian Furigay-Dudgeon.
Music and lyrics by Nhick Ramiro Pacis
Featuring:
Musikong Kawayan Bamboo Ensemble
Nhick Ramiro Pacis, Music Director
Philippine Choral Group
David Martinez III, conductor
Connie Chanrasmi, Music Director
Philippine Performing Arts Company, Inc.
Joey Omila, Choreographer and Director
The entire Yakan costumes and accessories were recently donated by
the late Rose Furigay, Mayor of Lamitan, Basilan, Philippines.
Performed at the Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc.’s “Sampaguita Ball 2022” held at the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center in Tampa, Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022.
For more information, visit pcfitampa.org or nhick.com
