On Feb. 14, more than 300 performers with 14 competition and exhibition teams graced the International Fiesta (IF) stage, putting on a stunning performance that left viewers blown away. Through performances with compelling stories and dances filled with sheer energy, this year's Fiesta was an event that UB students will not forget. Although every club poured their heart onto the stage, only a few select clubs were able to receive awards based on their performance, narrative and overall emotion induced.
But the overarching message of “Voices Unmuted” echoed throughout the Center for the Arts (CFA) and left admirers more knowledgeable on issues plaguing societies.
First Place and Fan Choice Competition: Latin American Student Association (LASA)
Earning both Fan’s Choice and Judges’ Choice for best performance at IF was LASA. A performance that encapsulated the current political atmosphere of the United States and resonated with viewers of all backgrounds.
The performance started in a joyful manner, reminiscent of those of a Latin American background. A get-together filled with music, dancing merengue and, most importantly, joy. Amidst this jovial atmosphere, we see two men wearing a black mask and boots slowly walking into the scene, with an ominous aura surrounding them, portraying Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. They proceed to grab the boombox playing music, stomp on it and grab one of the partygoers with threats of deportation. A disheartening occurrence, but nonetheless an experience felt by those in the audience.
Throughout the performance, we see internal frustration expressed by the deported individuals’ loved ones, appalled by the inhumane act and unable to process this experience.
Midway through the performance, a powerful act was shown on stage, with members of the LASA team walking center stage with signs reading “ICE OUT” and “families belong together,” a gesture protesting the acts of ICE. This action caused an uproar in the audience, with cheers and whistles lasting long after members left the stage. A powerful message was conveyed through this performance and, by the audience’s reaction, was truly felt in the hearts of those watching.
After LASA was announced the winners, some e-board members were seen crying on stage, touched by the response and overwhelmed with emotion.
As discussed in their previous interview, LASA focused their energy leading up to IF on speaking up for their people and making sure injustice faced is expressed on the stage. It seems through all their hard work they were able to deliver on that initial intention and create a performance that brought a sense of unity within the CFA.
Second Place: Indian Student Association (ISA)
ISA continues to be a powerful force upon the IF stage, curating a storyline that addresses the unfair treatment of Devadasis in India. A devadasi is a female artist dedicated to the worship and service of a deity or a temple for the rest of her life. In addition to taking care of the temple, they are also trained in classical Indian dance and distinguished in Indian society. But as years passed, the once affluent role they had in society was overshadowed by the brutal treatment of their mentors.
Within this performance, the Devadasis donned a mouth tie, signifying their inability to speak out and advocate for themselves. The Devadasis performed elegantly, any small mishap during their routine would cause immense frustration and aggression from the mentors, which made it harder for the Devadasis to vent their discontent.
A highlight of this entire performance was an emotionally charged dance battle between the ruthless mentors and the citizens opposing their mindset.
Through powerful dance steps and a routine gleaming with passion, ISA was able to leave the audience members in awe, educating them on the cruelty toward a group of talented women in India. The message of gentle love and nurturing was apparent, as these hardworking, talented women were exploited for their talents and viewed merely as a source of entertainment.
At its core, the routine reminded viewers that love should be unwavering and supportive, present not only in moments of celebration, but through every obstacle and hardship. The theme of “Voices Unmuted” was thoroughly expressed within ISA’s performance.
Third Place: Pakistani Student Association (PSA)
With a hiatus lasting several years, and the first solo competition act in IF, PSA has cemented themselves as a formidable competitor able to craft a narrative that speaks volumes. PSA’s performance centered around a farmer who works hard to make a formidable wage but is emotionally and physically distraught after a flood destroys his harvest. This causes the farmer to move to the bustling city of Karachi, where he learns not only to adapt, but bring the culture he loves so much to this urbanized land.
The story sheds light on the millions of farmers in Pakistan who face this reality on a daily basis. The fragility of harvesting and the occurrence of disastrous droughts is a common sight in Pakistan, and many hardworking farmers have to leave the land they are tied to in order to make ends meet.
But this movement to a somewhat unfamiliar place doesn’t require the abandonment of one’s culture and identity, but can be expressed and taught to people. Through traditional folk dance and a mesmerizing Qawali scene, PSA effectively showcased the inner workings of this farmer. Qawali is a form of Sufi Islamic devotional singing intended to act as a bridge toward the experience of Sufi mystical love and builds upon religious chants and poetry. Its inclusion in the performance created an emotionally heavy moment that expressed both the fragility of livelihood and the strength of identity.
Ultimately, PSA’s performance was a testament to resilience and a reminder that culture is everlasting and carried within the people who refuse to let it fade.
Fan Choice Exhibition: Mystique
An exhilarating, thrilling, energetic performance was given by Mystique, the African Student Association dance team. Representing the African continent through vibrant dance and powerful song, Mystique brought a thrilling celebration of culture to the stage. Dressed in light green with leafy accents woven throughout their attire, the performers embodied beauty and true connection to their land, with their stunning outfits amplifying the spirit of their routine.
One of the highlights of their performance was a scene in which the performers were hidden behind a flag representing an African nation, and abruptly the flag would be lifted, followed by a dance routine. It was mesmerizing to watch, and through this dance you could feel the passion of the performers with each step they took.
Mystique succeeded in representing their heritage on the IF stage and showed the audience how dance has the power to inspire and invigorate.
Win or lose, each performance remained true in its core message, delivering in every aspect. Through the powerful art of dance, performers created a showcase that entertained, but also educated everyone in attendance.
With each IF, the bar continues to rise and this year was no exception. Hard work and dedication were evident in every step and scene. To all the performers, congratulations on an incredible show that left the audience inspired and more aware of “Voices Unmuted.”
The past winners, rankings and themes can be found on the UB Student Association page.
Saqib Khan is the assistant features editor and can be reached at saqib.khan@ubspectrum.com
Photo: Courtesy of Sevda Abdavinejad
