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APA show kicks off Heritage Month

Lights, camera -- action!

More than 15 acts electrified a sold-out Power Center audience Saturday night at the Generation APA cultural show, which consisted of a blend of traditional and modern dances. The show marked the start of a monthlong series of events in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

"(The show) was just incredible -- unbelievable," said LSA first-year student Victor Wu.

The opening act, titled "APA Nation," a parody of Janet Jackson's "Rhythm Nation," thrilled the energetic audience with its hip-hop dance routine.

The remainder of the show included acts that combined the traditional dances of different Asian cultures, such as a dance that blended the Chinese plate dance and the Korean fan dance.

"It was a really good mix of variety," LSA junior Prital Shah said. "I thought it represented everyone real well."

The show, which is presented by the United Asian American Organizations and the Asian Pacific American Task Force, is unique in that it draws students who are not performance majors to choreograph and organize all of the acts.

"I think (the performance) really shows the campus ... the strength, creativity and enthusiasm of the Asian Pacific American community," said Tricia Bagamasbad, the show's coordinator.

The show closed with a finale recognizing the history of Asian migration to the United States and the birth of Asian Pacific America.

Vice President for University Relations Walter Harrison, who attended the show, praised it as being "terrific, energetic and creative."

"I thought the theme of dual identity was strong and well presented," Harrison said.