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Filipino choreographer Jason Ignacio earned a standing ovation at the world premier of his work in New York, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Friday.

The DFA said Ignacio's "The Mountain" had its world premiere at the Kennedy Center, and was recognized at the 9th Metro DC Dance Awards.

"'The Mountain' draws from the rich and diverse folklore and mythology, synthesizing traditional and modern dance forms with cutting-edge technology and speaks to all about humanity’s continuing responsibility as nature’s stewards," Ignacio said.

It played to full house audiences at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage and drew raves from audiences during its two-day performance recently, the DFA said.

"The Mountain" was one of only two works especially commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

Using Mt. Pinatubo and Smokey Mountain as inspiration, Ignacio's dance show carried a compelling global environmental message.

“I wanted to show through dance nature’s power and humanity’s power to transform things for the better, for himself and for his world. My being Filipino is evident in the imagery that I tried to paint with movement and I am hopeful that people will respond to my message
positively," he said.

Before the performance, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy Gaa pointed out that Smokey Mountain has since been closed down and efforts to manage solid waste and to recycle are gaining ground in the Philippines – through Government and through people’s movements.

“Tonight, we are reminded anew of what we need to continue working on, if we are to live, to flourish and prosper as one human family. As we experience the performance tonight, let us reaffirm and renew our pledge to do our part in the preservation and protection of our
environment," Gaa said.

A few days later, Ignacio won in the Outstanding Individual Performer Category at the 9th Metro DC Dance Award Monday, also at the Kennedy Center.

He was tied with Delphina Parenti, a fellow member of the critically-acclaimed CityDance Ensemble, a professional contemporary dance company based in Washington, D.C.

“I offer this victory to God, my country and my countrymen. I am proud of my Filipino heritage, I treasure my Filipino values and I am inspired to continue reaching for new artistic heights," Ignacio said after receiving the award.

During the awarding ceremonies, Ignacio noted the presence of Filipinos who came to support him and noticed several Asians seated beside him.

“We’re here to see you!" the Asians reportedly told him.

"It was such a nice feeling that I’m not only reaching to Filipinos but with other peoples and cultures as well," Ignacio said.

Gaa congratulated Ignacio, saying he had traveled far with his art.

"This is an achievement our people and country can be proud of and it is a testament to the artistry and grace of our people, the creativity of our youth and the excellent training in our institution," Gaa said. - GMANews.TV


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