Karilagan Dance Society 48th Anniversary

By Elmina Cochingco
Karilagan Dance Society celebrated its 48th anniversary last April 27, 2019 at Radisson Hotel Edmonton South with the theme “Piliin Ang Pilipinas” – Choose Philippines. It also presented the 22nd Hiyas (Gem) Award recipients. The event was attended by Honourable Amarjeet Sohi and his wife and Mayor Don Iveson. It was also a tribute to the late Leonardo C. Molo who passed away last July 4, 2018. Mr. Molo was a big part of the Karilagan Dance Society, he became involved with the group in 1996 as a volunteer member and later on became a long- time adviser. He led the yearly props making sessions by sharing his artistic talent. To date, his art works are still part of the group’s performances. He was one of the Hiyas (Gem) Award initiators and one of the editors of the Philippine Hiyas newspaper. Mr. Jun Angeles, who have known Len for such a long time paid a nice tribute to his friend and mentor.
Karilagan showcased folk dances from tribal, rural and Muslim suite to the delight of their guests. The night started with an opening group dance and song number of “Piliin Ang Pilipinas” followed by talented entertainers during dinner and ended with the intricate moves and gracefulness of the dancers and display of colorful costumes accompanied live by exceptionally talented KDS musicians. Karilagan have 51 performing members as young as three years old.