Last May 25, I had the pleasure of attending Fiesta Flamenca en Davao — an evening of rhythm, color, and fierce artistry — at the RSM Gym of Philippine Women’s College in Juna. This annual cultural showcase has become a much-anticipated event, and this year’s performance did not disappoint.
Our beloved aunt, Lilian Abella Robillo, invited us once again. She wasn’t just a spectator — she was a dancer and a sponsor, living proof that it’s never too late to dance your heart out on stage. I had already seen her perform flamenco last year, so I knew to expect a feast for the senses. But this time, the experience felt even more powerful — not just because of the footwork and fan flicks, but because of the story behind the dancers.
At the helm of this beautiful production was Ivy Talaban Aw, the choreographer, whose precise and emotive direction gave life to the performance. Supporting her was the powerhouse Donna Albarracin Mascariñas, who wore many hats—Artistic Director, Technique Master, and Costume Designer. Every movement, ruffle, and twirl bore her signature flair.
Curious, I asked Tita Lilian what first drew her to flamenco. Her answer was both touching and inspiring.
“I developed a passion for flamenco because of my BFF, Bing Locsin,” she shared warmly. “She was also my jazz and tap dance teacher. She taught us to enjoy dancing—not just to master the moves, but to feel them. She was the mentor of Ivy Aw and still oversees our tap classes. Ivy eventually studied flamenco more deeply at Centro Flamenco.”
Donna’s love for the art deepened through lessons in Spain and further training in Manila, where she became part of Centro Flamenco. When she joined their local dance class, she brought flamenco with her—sharing what she had learned until she and Ivy co-founded Flamenco Davao, which now holds regular classes at HQ Studios.
Tita Lilian beamed when I asked what it’s like to now share the stage with her step-daughter-in-law and granddaughter.
“When I invited Faith to join me, she jumped at the chance to learn a new craft,” she said with a smile. “When Ivy opened flamenco and jazz classes for kids, Nadia joined and loved the dances. Last year, Naomi joined too and found herself enjoying it just as much. I am so happy to have them with me… and when I eventually slow down beyond 80, I will be proudly watching them.”
Indeed, the joy was visible in every beat, swirl, and stomp that night. Flamenco isn’t just an art form; it’s become a thread that ties generations together. In this family, it’s not just about dancing—it’s about dancing together.
Ate Faith is the wife of my cousin, Attorney Ernesto Robillo. Two of their three daughters joined the flamenco recital. Like a tight-knit clan, The Robillos came in full force, occupying the first two rows.
So to Aunt Lilian and the women of the family: Olé! May your heels never tire and your stories never stop dancing.
