Pinoy-Style Christmas Instrument A Hit In Vegas

[Medic Mike]

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – A tambourine using "tansans" or bottle caps helped relive a Pinoy Christmas tradition for kababayans in Southern Nevada in the touching musical theatrical show of the Kalahi Philippine Folkloric Ensemble.

"I have to tell you though that the tansan is made from the Philippines. We imported it here and the kids from Cebu, Philippines made this and shared it with the kids in Las Vegas. That's the true spirit of Christmas," said Dr. Jaei Tan of the Kalahi Folkloric Ensemble.

Another member, Rey Espina, said it's their goal to present the Filipino spirit of Christmas to the Las Vegas community.

The musical, titled "Jingle Jingel Jingol," provides a coup d'oeil of how children in the Philippines make their own instruments for traditional caroling.

"Balik tanaw tayo nung bata tayo that we are using tansan di ba? Kaya very touching kasi kahit nandito tayo sa America na feel natin ang Christmas in the Philippines," said Michael Santa Juana.

From singkil to pastoras, Kalahi showcases colorful Philippine cultural dances.

"It is really a hard work because mahirap kasing ipunin lahat may mga trabaho. But this show became a show because of the enthusiasm of each member towards culture and arts and that's our mission to preserve the Philippine culture," said Gerald Gutierrez.

 

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/global-filipino/12/24/13/pinoy-style-christmas-instrument-hit-vegas