LOOKING for a theme for a family reunion can be quite a task as choices are countless. The family’s local contingent organizing the event wanted the out of towners to experience our Masskara as none had the chance to witness our festival. So the Masskara dancers were commissioned to welcome them plus execute some moves to give them a feel of why it is globally acclaimed.
To create a fiesta aura, a Mardi Gras was conceptualized. Not demanding in costumes, the selection can be anything from international, dated or whatever is in your closet. So, you see a calypso gang, some sheiks, Mexicans, Zorro, a fairy, some divas, an over-aged go-go dancer, pop stars, Iron Man and dangles of beads and furs plus masks and hilarious hats. All adorned to revved up good vibes, infectious energy, and speed up warm attachments.
The program was simple and free flowing. For a bit of history, the 13 families gave a short narration of their Dad/Mom or lolos/lolas. There were funny anecdotes, much significant history, a bit of biography, but all information centered on the beautiful prize of a great legacy.
A surprise of the reunion was the coming birthday celebration of our uncle Tito Ben Regner Du, who came all the way from California with Tita Cami, the youngest sibling among the 13 with their daughter Lizette. Little did he know that we had a cake ready for him complete with scepter, crown, and sash. The royal ornaments were far too short from imperial splendor, but Tito Ben was most happy to receive them knowing that they were minted from the very precious golden fibers of our love.
After confetti and cheers, (we forgot the champagne) the DJ together with the patikeros’ feverish music flamed the festival mood, bringing everyone from 9 to 90 literally on the dance floor with twists, dips, turns which highlighted the whole celebration.
Reunions need not be lavish. All that is needed is everyone’s desire to be a part of the family and relish the bonding and the bonus of going home with much important family trivia and a whole sense of heritage pride!