Creative Hearts United led a props‑making workshop for the YFG (Yorkshire Filipino Group) Cultural Dance Troupe.
The workshop forms part of the 2026 Philippine Cultural Arts Programme facilitated by Creative Hearts United, a registered charity dedicated to promoting Filipino arts and culture in the United Kingdom. The organisation is responsible for seeking funding to support the programme’s delivery and will also provide the workshop venues, refreshments, logistics, choreography, recruitment, marketing, and overall tour management.
Read the full article about the 2026 Philippine Cultural Arts Programme – https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/04/27/philippine-cultural-arts-workshop-2026/
Filipino Folk Dance Props
YFG members gathered to create traditional props for their cultural dance presentations. They contributed creativity, teamwork, and cultural pride throughout the session.
The activity revived a familiar tradition from Philippine schools. Students once crafted props for folk dance lessons and community events. This year’s presentation draws inspiration from Karatong, Bulaklakan, and Subli folk dances. All dances feature colourful movements and distinctive handmade props together with matching Filipino customes concocted by Cherry Mullins.
Read the full article about the folk dances that inspired the YFG Dance Troupe this summer at- https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/06/14/philippine-folk-dances-in-the-uk/.
Bulaklakan Props: Floral Arches
For the Bulaklakan segment, participants crafted floral arches. These arches symbolise festivity, grace, and Filipino artistry.
The Bulaklakan arch is a handheld floral prop. Female dancers hold garlands made of leaves and colourful flowers. Traditionally, these garlands attach to flexible materials like wire, bamboo, or rattan. Dancers raise the garlands overhead to form a continuous arch shape.
Karatong Props: Karatong and Bunga Mangga
Participants built the karaton, a bamboo drum worn by male dancers. The drum reflects the rhythmic and energetic style of the Karatong dance.
They also created the bunga mangga, a pole shaped like a mango tree. This prop adds authenticity and visual impact to the performance.
Community Spirit and Cultural Pride
The workshop drew strong attendance and showed clear community spirit. Volunteers from the Filipino community in Leeds worked together with enthusiasm and pride. Creative Hearts United continues to promote Philippine arts and heritage. The group also creates opportunities for young British‑Filipinos to connect with their roots. The project is supported by donations from the community, the People’s Postcode Lottery Grants Programme, Leeds City Council’s East Leeds Community Committee, and Brelms Trust.
Creative Hearts United wishes the YFG Cultural Dance Troupe success at this summer’s Barrio Fiesta performances.
