In a remarkable cultural exchange, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has extended a warm invitation to the acclaimed Barangay Granada MassKara Dancers of Bacolod to partake in the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. The distinguished dance troupe, reigning champions of Bacolod’s MassKara Street Dance and Arena Competition, will be a highlight in the much-anticipated Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, set to make a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus on February 10.
The Night Parade is poised to be a global spectacle, featuring an unprecedented 13 local and 16 international performing groups from 12 diverse countries and regions. Among the lineup are renowned acts such as Japan’s all-female pop dance group Avantgardey, Spain’s captivating Light Dancers, Germany’s mesmerizing Universe of Lights, and the traditional Tibetan performance by the Chamdo Troupe.
The inclusion of the Barangay Granada MassKara Dancers adds a touch of Filipino flair to the festivities. Having secured victory in Bacolod’s MassKara Street Dance and Arena Competition for an impressive fifth time last year, the talented dancers have also showcased their skills on an international stage, participating in New York’s 125th Philippine Independence Day Parade. Their recent guest performance at the Cebu Sinulog 2024 highlights further attests to their global acclaim.
The Night Parade will be adorned with nine captivating floats, featuring contributions from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, sponsor Cathay Pacific, and iconic Hong Kong landmarks such as Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Each float promises to be a visual spectacle, reflecting the rich diversity and cultural vibrancy of the participating regions.
This cultural convergence not only highlights the global appeal of Chinese New Year celebrations but also underscores the significance of fostering cross-cultural connections through the universal language of dance. The presence of the Barangay Granada MassKara Dancers serves as a testament to the inclusivity of this annual celebration, bringing together performers from around the world to create a tapestry of traditions, colors, and rhythms that will undoubtedly captivate the hearts of spectators in Hong Kong and beyond.