I can still vividly remember my PE dance class when I was just a college freshman student. I remembered being so anxious for I know that I don’t have a talent in dancing. Information about our professor also intimidated us (my block mates). Mr. Martin Ronda, our dance mentor is known to be a “terror” professor. Rumor has it that he gives perfect 4.0 to his students BUT you would definitely have to work your ass off through the entire term. Our Lasallian ambassador even said that he will definitely make your fats disappear because he will never stop unless you’ve been sweating profusely. During those three months, we’ve learned dance sport. Rumba, Swing, and Jive were the three dances that we had rehearsed all throughout the term. I confess that somehow, I have learned to appreciate dance – and that is because of the dedication and passion of our mentor (thanks to him). However, I would still not dance just for the entertainment of others! Honestly, I’d rather exemplify my shameful ability in singing rather than dancing!

Dance, just like music, expresses one’s emotions and feelings. During our first day in PE dance class, our mentor “forced” a number of my classmate to demonstrate a dance that express happiness, sadness etc. Of course, I was glad that I wasn’t one of those fortunate students who performed in our class. He entrenched in our minds that dance is a way of expressing your feelings as well as conveying a message to others. A dancer should move with confidence and passion. And most of all, he/she must learn the skills needed to be very effective in portraying their feelings/message.

Last Wednesday, we attended the second half of the art in action. A dance seminar was fairly introduced to us. Just like in the music workshop last week, they discussed the dynamics as well as dances that are present in other culture. Basic dance positions and steps were also introduced to us.

The dance that I appreciate most is Flamenco. It is where the performers wear long ruffled skirts and dances with shoes (with wide heels) that creates a loud sound whenever they stomp their feet. I liked it best for they exemplify sexiness and power. Moreover, they dance with ardor that makes the viewers want to dance with them (for me it does). They move in a very posh and fluid manner. I also like the way they project themselves. The dancer look regal and their facial expression remind me of a “mataray” lady.

I also appreciated one of our very own local dances, the manglalatik. The performers really looked amusing. I never cease to laugh whenever I remember their performance.