Here, "Magic on Stage" unfurls with creativity, artistry, and pageantry, thrilling the thousands of people who have come to share in the Philippine culture. The infectious smiles, the friendly hellos, and the 'Mabuhays' of the volunteers greet guests with warmth and sincerity. Folklorama, the annual festival of nations, allows Filipino-Canadians to open their doors to those who are interested to e
xperience our own little Philippines! Buenaventura was the founder of Magdaragat Philippines Inc. He directed, staged and scripted both Magdaragat and Tanghalang Pilipino. A former teacher, Dante took dance and drama during and after getting his diploma. Dante was an avid believer in hard work, experimentation and improvisation. He tended to forget to sleep and eat most of the time. In 1988, Dante lost his battle against lung cancer, but lives on through his legacy, Magdaragat, and through the countless number of people he has empowered during and beyond life. Magdaragat Philippine Folk Arts, Incorporated, was organized in April 1976. Magdaragat adopts June 12, 1977 (Philippine Independence Day) as its official founding date. Magdaragat is a Filipino word that means voyagers of the seas or seafarers. The name Magdaragat was chosen to reflect: the geographic character of the Philippines as a country of more than 7000 islands; its rich and varied cultural fabric; and the nature of the Filipinos who immigrated to Canada. Magdaragat and Tanghalang Pilipino
The seed of the present Magdaragat was planted in 1976 when three individuals decided to form a dance group. The primary reasons were centered on presenting an alternative to what was already existing then. The organizers were experienced and/or technically trained in their respective specific fields; hence the boldness of approach. The dance group was formed with less than 10 members. Tanghalang Pilipino (Philippine Theatre) was formed almost at the same time. Both activities utilized the group's limited resources, with the drama company involving more community members who were given some training through short workshops. Tanghalang Pilipino performed about 14 short plays from 1977 to 1981, all of which were written and directed by Dante Buenaventura. In Magdaragat, attitude towards ensemble playing was emphasized very heavily. Cooperative work, constant rehearsals and group effort were always instilled. These were the key factors in the success of a group that professes 'company' as a method of artistic and administrative operation. The creative requirements (repertoire, costumes, programs, etc.), however, were heavy and at that time given emphasis. Every single thing had to be started from scratch. Members had to provide whatever they needed. In other words, the group depended on themselves to achieve. Talks about having the dance and drama activities under one name happened in 1977; in 1978, the combined groups were called Philippine Folk Arts Society. In 1979, the name changed to Tanghalang Pilipino. Finally in 1980, the umbrella organization including all cultural activities sponsored or spearheaded by Magdaragat was incorporated as Magdaragat Philippine Folk Arts, Inc., as a private, non-profit cultural organization.
