A Spanish flamenco dance blended with a Middle Eastern twist. Bhutanese modern pop with fusion costumes. And the lively traditional songs and dances of Tahiti.
These are just a few offerings featured at International Night: Home Away from Home, a celebration of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa‘s multi-cultural diversity on Friday, March 16, 5-9 p.m. at the Campus Center Ballroom.
The event, which will feature performances and cultural booths, is free and open to the public.
This year’s highlighted cultures are Bhutan, China, Nepal, the Philippines, Russia, Spain, Tahiti, Thailand, Tonga, Vietnam and the United States. The university currently serves as a “home away from home” for nearly 1,000 students from 75 countries.
Organized annually since 1999 by the International Student Association (ISA), this showcase of songs and dances features students, faculty and community members. ISA members, who are themselves a mix of international and domestic students, staff the event and prepare for it months in advance.
“For club members, International Night is a community service to gain experience in TLC or teamwork, leadership and cross-cultural communication,” said Linda Duckworth, director of international student services and ISA faculty advisor.
International Night sponsors are the Associated Students of the University of Hawaiʻi; Campus Center Board and Activities Council; ISO Student Health Insurance; New Intensive Courses in English; Student Equity, Excellence and Diversity; Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and Success; and UH Bookstore.
For more information, including a schedule of performances, visit the ISA website.
