The Iloilo Dinagyang Arts Festival (IDAF) launched its maiden voyage with a showcase performance by one of the city’s top musicians, designers, filmmakers, and artists.
Festival chairman, Councilor Jay Treñas unveiled the multi-disciplinary program which will feature various events from music, dance, and film, to visual arts and theatre from January 10 to 26.
Treñas mentioned that the arts has taken a back seat and Dinagyang presents an opportunity to showcase innovative works from local artists to internationally sits.
Featured band, Trauma, performed at the opening with raw metal, artistic fusion during the fashion runway that brought guests nodding their heads with their infectious blends.
HALA BIRA RAMPA featured fashion wears from young Ilonggo designers on the runway,
First on the lineup is John Larlar with vibrant color combinations of summer-jewel palettes, bringing the artisanal use of indigenous materials and traditional designs for a contemporary twist.
Meanwhile, Jeff Ticao offered a sweet balance of blues and pinks and incorporates these into modern shapes and silhouettes.
Last, Kevin Hiballes showcased a strong, luxurious take on the designs with black, gold, and white hues, all the while juxtaposing indigenous wears in today’s contemporaneousness.
The film section of the program is packed with highlights from Cinekasimanwa, Western Visayas Film Festival, featuring Ilonggo reels such as Dagyang, Utwas, Ing, Gulut-anon nga Dulot, Kasadya sang Oras, and Singkal.
IDAF holds the belief that the arts are for all and that nobody should be left out of the experience – especially on the celebratory atmosphere of the biggest cultural event in the country.
