December 2016, St Wilfred Church Hall. In a heartfelt performance at the Renal Department’s Christmas party in 2016, the Renalytes Kids, the children of a group of Filipino-British nurses at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, brought two vibrant Filipino folk dances to life: the Itik-Itik and the Bulaklakan.
The Itik-Itik (Dance of Ducks), originally from Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines, is a captivating dance that mimics the graceful movements of ducks. With choreography by Mrs. Emma Chu, the Renalytes Kids paid homage to this playful and unique dance, evoking the charm of the Philippines.
Complementing the Itik-Itik, the Bulaklakan (Floral Tribute) dance honors the Virgin Mary and the abundance of flowers in Bulacan. It is often performed during May as part of holy week celebrations. The Renalytes Kids, under Mrs. Emma Chu’s guidance, gracefully portrayed the beauty of blooming flowers and the deep religious devotion that is integral to Filipino culture.
This performance not only showcased their talent but also highlighted their dedication to preserving Filipino heritage while serving as healthcare professionals in the UK. It was a celebration of tradition, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Filipino-British community within the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
