Kinding Sindaw exhibit at La Mama Galleria - In Honor of the Ancestors | La MaMa Galleria
Jan 11, 2024 (UTC-5)ENDED
New York
Kinding Sindaw, a non-profit dance theater and resident of La MaMa Experimental Theater Club, is proud to present the "In Honor of the Ancestors" exhibit at La Mama Galleria in New York City. This exhibit pays tribute to the indigenous living traditions from the Philippines in diaspora, with a special focus on the island of Mindanao in the Southern Philippines. The mission of Kinding Sindaw is to reclaim and revitalize these living traditions and oral histories, while advocating for the self-determination of the 63 indigenous nations from the Philippines.
Led exclusively by tradition-bearers who are the rightful owners, heirs, and stewards of this cultural heritage, Kinding Sindaw's pedagogy promotes rigor, fidelity, and resistance against extractive practices and appropriation in art and activism. Founded in 1992 by Potri Ranka Manis, an immigrant nurse and daughter of Sultan a Gaus of the Royal Maranao House of Borocot, Kinding Sindaw aims to ensure that future generations are connected to their culture and birthright.
The exhibit at La Mama Galleria showcases the lives and contributions of Kinding Sindaw's hereditary and creative forebears from both Mindanao and downtown New York. Through photography, video, scenography, and sacred heirlooms, visitors are taken on a journey that celebrates the richness of these traditions. Drawing on techniques from Theater of the Oppressed, the exhibit invites visitors to become active participants, engaging in live performances, ceremonies, lectures, discussions, and workshops.
While there is no formal charge for admission, Kinding Sindaw kindly requests a suggested donation of $5 to $20. These donations directly support the organization's work in hosting dance classes, performances, as well as the maintenance of props, instruments, and wardrobe. Additionally, funds raised will help cover the travel and accommodation expenses of the tradition bearers. However, please note that no one will be turned away from the exhibit if they are unable to donate.
Join Kinding Sindaw at La Mama Galleria for a captivating and immersive experience that honors the ancestors and celebrates the vibrant cultural heritage of the Philippines.