The NJr Drum and Lyre Corps brought their 2025 UK tour to a powerful close with a vibrant and crowd-pleasing final performance at the Barrio Fiesta sa Cheshire East, held this summer. Organised by the Cheshire East Filipino Community, the fiesta was a dazzling celebration of Filipino heritage and artistry—and NJr’s performance stood as one of its most unforgettable highlights by headlining the Santacruzan parade.
With crisp musicality, striking formations, and infectious energy, NJr lit up the stage and thrilled audiences of all ages. Their synchronized routines and colourful presence not only showcased discipline and talent, but also served as a proud symbol of Filipino identity and youth empowerment in the UK. It was a fitting finale for a tour that has brought joy, pride, and cultural connection to Filipino communities across the country.
This year’s tour was made possible through the unwavering support of Creative Hearts United, a UK-based charity dedicated to uplifting Filipino culture and the arts. Their collaboration with NJr reflects a shared vision: to nurture the next generation of Filipino creatives and provide them with platforms to shine.
Founded in 2010 by Ms. Nina Ricci Butor in Bradford, the NJr Drum and Lyre Corps is the first Philippine-inspired drum and lyre corps in the UK. It was born out of Ms. Butor’s passion to bring a beloved tradition from the Philippines into the heart of the British-Filipino diaspora.
In 2023, seeking to reinvigorate the group with fresh talent, Ms. Butor reached out to Ms. Emma Chu of Creative Hearts United. Their collaboration led to new life being breathed into the ensemble—particularly in Leeds, where seven teens from the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) signed up by Spring 2025. These young recruits brought new energy and commitment to the NJr legacy, and their growth over the months was clearly evident during the Cheshire East finale.
The NJr Drum and Lyre Corps’ 2025 tour not only celebrated music and tradition but also highlighted the power of mentorship, community collaboration, and cultural pride. As the final notes rang out in Cheshire East, they left behind more than just echoes of applause—they left a lasting legacy of connection, identity, and inspiration.
