Directing a Cultural Show

Home in my home away from home.

March 1, 2024

Tribute to Home

Fiestang 2024: Jeepney Joyride was more than just a cultural showcase—it was a love letter to the Philippines and the Filipino American experience. The theme centered on the jeepney, an iconic symbol of Filipino ingenuity and community, representing the journeys we take to stay connected to our roots. Through a carefully curated lineup of performances, we honored the stories, traditions, and resilience that define Filipino culture, creating a space where our audience—Filipino and non-Filipino alike—could celebrate, reflect, and feel at home.

Leadership and Organization

As director, I led a team of students to bring this vision to life, balancing artistic direction with logistical execution. From coordinating performers and designing a cohesive narrative to managing budgets and ensuring smooth event production, I navigated the complexities of leading a large-scale cultural event. My role required adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving—whether it was securing funding, handling last-minute technical challenges, or fostering an environment where every participant felt empowered to contribute. The result was a showcase that not only entertained but also deepened cultural appreciation and community engagement.

Forming Committees

A production of this scale required a well-structured team, so I established committees that allowed individuals to take ownership of different aspects of the showcase. Each committee played a crucial role in shaping Fiestang 2024, from marketing the event to executing performances and coordinating logistics.

I selected and empowered committee heads, ensuring that responsibilities were evenly distributed and that each leader had the resources to succeed. The Marketing & Communications team worked on branding and promotion, making sure our theme was reflected in every visual and social media post. Kamayan (Banquet) focused on curating an authentic Filipino dining experience, bringing the heart of our culture—food—into the celebration. The Production Committee oversaw the artistic and technical aspects of the show, from acting to stage design. Meanwhile, the Tech Committee managed the essential behind-the-scenes elements of lights and sound, ensuring a seamless performance.

Additionally, I modified the Apprentices Program, giving newer members a hands-on experience in event management, setting the foundation for future Fiestang leaders. With a strong organizational framework, each committee had clear goals and creative freedom while staying aligned with the overarching vision of the event.

Caring for One Another

Beyond the logistics and execution, I emphasized people over production—prioritizing a culture of care and support within our team. Fiestang was not just about putting on a show; it was about creating a space where every person felt valued and celebrated.

I made it a point to foster open communication, ensuring that committee heads and members had regular check-ins, not just about progress but also about well-being. Whether it was checking in on a team member struggling with workload, ensuring late-night rehearsals didn’t compromise academic responsibilities, or simply creating a fun, welcoming space in practices, we built an environment where everyone felt like they belonged.

Many of us came into FASO with different levels of connection to Filipino culture, but through our work together, we forged a shared sense of pride and belonging. Fiestang 2024 was a testament not only to our cultural heritage but also to the strength of our community—one that looked out for each other beyond the stage.

Also Got Featured in The Observer!

Fiestang 2024: Jeepney Joyride was also featured in The Observer, the official student newspaper of the University of Notre Dame, Holy Cross College, and St. Mary's College. I got interviewed about the processes and importance of this event in our community.