First International Barrio Fiesta for the Isle of Man!

Saturday the 7^th of June 2008 saw an unusual cultural event in Derby Square Park in central Douglas - a fiesta feast of multi-cultural singing, dancing, good food and festivities occurring at the first ‘International Barrio Fiesta’ organised by the Filipino Association in the Isle of Man.

Blessed with good weather, the event was officially opened by the Lady Mayor of Douglas, the Worshipful Mrs. Dorothy Pitts accompanied by both her husband and other councillors of the Borough of Douglas.

The Chairman of the Association, Leonora Loudon-Brown, in her welcoming remarks explained that, ‘Barrio’ means ‘community’ in Tagalog, the common Filipino language.

She went on to say that,“The objective of the Fiesta is to integrate with other different nationalities which now comprise the population of the Isle of Man through the exchange of cultural and educational activities”.

The Chairman concluded that we should think of the Fiesta as,“A big family party - an outdoor family gathering and picnic in celebration of all those who now make up the Manx population”.

The activities featured dancers and special presentations from the Philippines – with colourful performances from both the FAIM adult and children’s dance groups from Ramsey, Douglas and from the South of the Island, as well as celebrated Indian Dancer, Rani Paul from Colby.

Special guests included ‘The Perree Bane Manx Dance Group and ‘Scotia’- comprising fiddle maestro Brian Myers accompanied by Peter Lewis on guitar. Vocal presentations were also given by Edna Javellana and other singers from the FAIM Choir and a guest appearance of a former member of the 1960s West of Scotland award winning Folk Group ‘The Leftovers’.

Children’s activities included traditional fun events along with dancing and face painting by Mila Beale. The Douglas based band ‘Local Brown’ featuring Tom Tamse completed the activities which appeared to have been hugely enjoyed by all who attended the event from all over the Island.

The Fiesta was dedicated to the memory of the late Mrs. Brenda Quayle (who died recently) an early patron and great friend of the Filipino Association.

FAIM’s annual August ‘Filipino Festival’ will take place at Ramsey’s Mooragh Park on Sunday August 3 between 10:30 and 16:30 – more detail at www.faimonline.com/html/fiesta_2008.html