As humans, we are able to distinguish ourselves from lower life form through our capability to dream. The expansion of our brain is further stimulated with our perennial pursuits to be creative, artistic and mindful of our culture.
If you are reading this Sunday’s column, I can deduce that you have been blessed with a good education which equips you to pursue many dreams. Unfortunately, to the marginalized sectors of our society, it’s a totally different story.
Fortunately, there is a group of socially conscious individuals who are continually in hot pursuit to make a difference – the Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines Inc. (FCCP).
From the day it was founded in 1979, its mission was clear: to uplift the sense of appreciation for the arts and culture by way of developing and nurturing young and talented Filipino artists.
For 36 years, FCCP has held fund-raising balls with the socially mindful and elite set as guests. From the charitable donations, the group has given grants to the Philippine Research for Developing Instrumental Soloists and other institutions like the Philippine High School for the Arts in Makiling, Ballet Philippines, Ballet Manila and National Music Competitions for Young Artists Foundation, Inc. (NAMCYA) among other organizations.
LATIN AMERICAN FEVER HITS THE BALL
This year, the FCCP went all out in the name of charity on the occasion celebrating its 36th founding anniversary.
Headed by current president Nene Pe-Lim, this year’s FCCP Ball had a colorful Latin American theme and was organized to raise funds to support the education of underprivileged children through donations to various organizations on performing arts.
According to the organizers, the FCCP Ball 2015 aims to generate more funds to sustain support to current scholars as well as raise additional funds to accommodate new ones.
The main lounge of Manila Polo Club was filled with the country’s old rich in their Latin American regalia. The ladies were impeccably dressed and the gentlemen dapper in their suits.
The sumptuous five-course dinner prepared by the Manila Polo Club was complimented by the air of jubilation as members and guests enjoyed each other’s company to celebrate their fellowship.
What made the event truly special was the evening’s entertainment. The repertoire was composed of stellar performances by young tenors and sopranos, a violinist, ballet dancers from the Philippine Ballet Theater. The talents that this columnist has witnessed were world-class and noteworthy on their passion for the arts.
“By providing scholars with an opportunity to hone their talents through proper guidance and education in schools, they are professionally trained with the right tools and curriculum to have a broader knowledge needed in perfecting their craft,” stated Nene Pe-Lim during her speech.
The scholars are the fruits of the FCCP’s enduring commitment to support the performing arts through grants and scholarship. And as I have observed (and felt), their performances that evening were wholeheartedly dedicated to their proud benefactors – the FCCP. The group’s sincere commitment for the advancement of the beautiful heritage of Philippine art and culture has made this possible. In its pursuit to strengthen Filipino identity and culture, the FCCP is hoping to be a catalyst that can continuously discover, enhance, and promote Filipino artists who can take their place in the global stage.
“Art is the heart and soul of our society,” expressed the consummate master of ceremonies, Johnny Litton.
From this columnist, my hats off to the ladies and gentlemen behind the FCCP for their generosity and selfless duty to uplift the soul of the community of whom they serve. They have given talented young artists a (fair) chance to fulfill their aspirations. And once fulfilled they, too, shall pay it forward.
To FCCP, may your organization continue to live in the moment and awaken society to experiences that give profound meaning to the existence of those in need.
Cheers!
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