dance is a dance of floral garlands, dedicated to the Virgin Mary during the Roman Catholic celebration of their holy week.
The Philippine Bulaklakan dance originated from the Southern Tagalog region in the Philippines. It is performed every May by dancing girls holding flowers in their hands.
dance is a dance of floral garlands, dedicated to the Virgin Mary during the Roman Catholic celebration of their holy week.
The Bulaklakan dance originated in the Philippines, specifically in the province of Batangas, during the early 20th century. It is a traditional folk dance that celebrates the beauty of flowers and is often performed during festivals and special occasions. The dance showcases graceful movements and intricate formations, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Filipino people.
Bulaklakan is traditionally performed during the Flores de Mayo, a month-long Catholic festival in the Philippines, which honors the Virgin Mary. It often culminates in a procession on the last day of May, known as Santacruzan. During this event, participants, especially young girls, wear colorful dresses and carry flowers, celebrating both faith and community.
BY: MS. TWINKLE ADONA©Our land is bequeathed with endless beauty such as in Central Luzon. Just a little history, there are three provinces where Tagalog is predominantly used and these are the provinces of Nueva Ecija, Bataan as well as Bulacan. And in the native town of Bulacan, where the origin of "Bulaklakan" derived its name, after a hard day's work, the rural people gather in their barrios and perform many impromptu and lively dances as a form of relaxation. These dances such as "Bulaklakan" personify the joys of work, of the surroundings and of life among the simple country people.In addition to facts, during the month of May, a lovely and attractive dance for instance "Bulaklakan", is pirouetted among 12 girls, each clutch garland of leaves and flowers attached to a CIRCLE BAMBOO or ARC RATTAN and held overhead.In some other places, the merriment of "Bulaklakan" takes the form of folk dances especially during the month of May, for it is known as the "DANCE OF FLORAL GARLANDS". It is custom performed in many parts of the Philippines as they celebrate the "Santa Cruz de Mayo" dedicated to the Virgin Mary during the Roman Catholic festivity.
"Bulaklakan" refers to the art of flower arranging, particularly in Filipino culture. It involves the creative arrangement of various flowers and foliage to create aesthetically pleasing displays for events, celebrations, or decorations. This practice highlights the importance of flowers in Filipino traditions and is often used in festivities, weddings, and religious ceremonies. The term can also encompass the broader appreciation of floral artistry and aesthetics in everyday life.
THIS DANCE IS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS 1. Sway right and left 16 counts,boys hand at back, girls flowers up (in place) 2. Sway right and left 8 counts,boys hand at back, girls flowers up forward 3. Sway right and left 2 counts, after that, turn to your right 4. Sway right and left on your place 5. girls kneel down, boys turn left 6. boys kneel down, girls turn left 7. make a circle (create a flower) 8. girls right left, then put down your flowers, and put it up (just your like awarding boys) 9. steady at no.3
Binasuan footwork looks remarkably similar to waltz steps. First, step out to the side with your right foot. Next, move your left foot up to your right foot. Third, tap your right foot. Now repeat this sequence, this time stepping to the side with your left foot. To move along when you and the other dancers are moving in a circle, step to the side with your right foot. Now kick your left foot out: This is a small motion, so make sure your foot is only coming about three inches off the floor. Point your toe. Third, tap your left toes on the ground. Because the music is in three-quarter time, your steps should go like this: step, kick, tap, step, kick, tap.To perform an arm balance, hold your arms up and out to the sides, with your palms up and your elbows slightly bent, held at about waist level. Your arms should look like you're carrying a large log, balancing it on your palms and the insides of your forearms. Now, as you kick your left foot out in the waltz step, make a large circle in the air with your left arm. This circle should be horizontal--that is, all its points should be at the same height. You'll make the circle by first bringing the heel of your hand close to your bicep, then moving your hand out to the left, keeping your hand flexed so your glass stays level. Straighten your elbow gradually as you keep moving your hand out and to the left. Keep a slight bend in your elbow as you reach the widest part of the circle, which will place your hand in front of your bicep again, but this time about two feet away from it. Keep moving your hand in this circle until it's all the way back close to your bicep again. This entire arm movement should take up one three-count in the music. Now, as you kick out your right foot, perform the same motion with your right arm.
Artistic paintings were existing in the Philippines even in the 16th century for religious propaganda. Later water color paintings, landscapes, battle scenes, etc. were introduced. Bamboo poles and bamboo sticks were traditional dances practiced even today. Weaving on looms, weaving baskets, etc. were other traditional practices that influence the Philippines today.