MAY 23, 2015 marks the Samahang Pilipino at UCLA’s 38th Annual Samahang Pilipino Cultural Night (SPCN). With a committee of 30 individuals, a cast comprised of over 200 participants, and an audience of 1,600 guests, SPCN has become more than a show — it is a beloved tradition, and an opportunity for cast and audience alike to celebrate and explore the rich and diverse culture of the Philippines. This year’s production, titled “Kahit Saan,” is an exploration of the struggles and resiliency of Pilipinos, especially in light of death, abuse, diasporic communities, family struggles, and other Pilipino and Pilipino-American community conditions. Taking from the phrase “Maliwanag, Kahit Saan,” the show brings together cultural dance, music, and drama to remind us that whenever we are going through our darkest times, our brightest moments will shine, Kahit Saan.
The story follows Will, a serious 22-year-old man who avoids confronting his grief for his Tito Manny’s death to obsessively plan the funeral and its reception. At his side are his devoted cousins: Ali, a young, unmarried, mother-to-be; Nikki, Ali’s younger sister, a troubled college freshman; and RJ, a charmer with commitment issues. Although the story takes place at a funeral, the death of a family member does not stop any family from celebrating the lives of the deceased and pushing through together. But when a mysterious figure from Tito Manny’s past reappears, secrets unravel and threaten family bonds.
This year’s show will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2014 at 6pm in UCLA’s Royce Hall. Tickets are free and open to everyone of all ages and ethnicities. To request tickets, or receive more information about the show, please email [email protected]. In order to make the show more accessible to audiences, ticket requests are limited to 2 tickets per request, and are not guaranteed given the limited quantity and high demand for tickets. Please request early so as to increase your chances of receiving tickets.
