Kda web logo 2025
Tod phil

Explore the Rhythms and Flavors of the Philippines: Kern Dance Alliance Presents Taste of Dance at 47th Annual Philippine Weekend

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA) is thrilled to kick off the next installment of its Taste of Dance series with a vibrant celebration of Philippine culture. Join KDA for Taste of Dance – Philippines, presented in partnership with the 47th Annual Philippine Weekend, on October 18 and 19 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Park in Delano (for the specific dance timeline schedule, please see below). 

Taste of Dance – Philippines highlights the rich cultural traditions of the Philippines that have significantly shaped Kern County. This community event invites participants to immerse themselves in traditional Philippine folk dance performances by the United Filipino Organization Dancers (UFO) and the Fil-Am Cultural Dance Troupe. Attendees can also indulge in delicious tastings from local Philippine food vendors, blending the arts of dance and cuisine to foster community connections.

Created by KDA Board Member Noor Elkereamy, the Taste of Dance series spotlights unique cultural traditions and celebrates the power of community. As part of the broader Philippine Weekend festivities, guests can explore additional attractions, including a Barrio Fiesta, the Mister & Miss Philippine Weekend and Tiny Tots Pageant, basketball and golf tournaments, a car show, and a parade.

“Taste of Dance is about honoring the communities that enrich Kern County through immersive experiences in performing and culinary arts,” said Nicole Villaruz, KDA Board Member and Taste of Dance, Philippine cocreator. “We’re excited to partner with Philippine Weekend to bring this celebration to life.”

The Taste of Dance project is supported by grants from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Arts Council of Kern County. All events are free and open to the public, emphasizing accessibility, inclusivity, and engagement with local youth and individuals with disabilities.

For the full Philippine Weekend lineup, visit philippineweekend.net.

Learn more about Taste of Dance at kerndance.org/TOD.

About Kern Dance Alliance

Kern Dance Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting dance as an essential part of community life in Kern County. Through events like Taste of Dance, KDA celebrates cultural diversity, supports local artists, and builds inclusive experiences through the arts. 

Taste of Dance – Philippine Dance Schedule Lineup:

Saturday, October 18

1:15 – 1:45 – UFO Performance

1:45 – 2:15 – Dance Contest

2:40 – 3:00 – Fil-Am Cultural Dance Troupe

4:00 – 4:15 – Fil-Am Cultural Dance Troupe

Sunday, October 19

12:00 – 12:30 – Singing/Dance Contest

2:00 – 2:30 – UFO

Shopping Basket

Jen Thompson

Vice President | Board Member

Jennifer Thompson is a proud Bakersfield native who fell in love with dance before she even started school. She grew up training under the guidance of renowned local instructor Georgia Peck, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for movement and expression. Jennifer pursed her academic education with equal enthusiasm, earning both her BA and MA in English from National University. For over 20 years, she has worked as an English teacher with the Kern High School District, where ahe has inspired generations of students with her love of literature and language. Recently, she has decided to begin a new chapter-transitioning from teaching English to teaching dance. She is thrilled to channel her passion into helping build and strengthen the fine arts program, where she can continue to inspire students through the transformative power of the arts. In addition to her work in education, Jennifer has proudly served as a board member with Kern Dance Alliance for the past four years. She loves the opportunity to bring dance to her community, spreading joy and encouraging creative expression in people of all ages. Outside of the classroom and studio, Jennifer has raised two grown children who are now pursuing their own passions-a journey that continues to inspire her both personally and professionally. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dogs, diving into a good book, and-of course-continuing to take dance classes herself.

Marcie Hronis

President | Board Member

Marcie Hronis is a distinguished author, dedicated arts advocate, accomplished business proprietor, and renowned interview specialist who resides in the vibrant community of Bakersfield, California.

With a dance career spanning nearly two decades, Marcie honed her craft through rigorous classical ballet training under the esteemed Royal Academy of Dance, achieving the pinnacle of her dance education with a distinction in the Advanced II examination. Marcie’s artistic journey included a passion for modern dance, where her formative training was shaped by the profound influences of Lester Horton and Martha Graham.

As the proprietor of Marcie Hronis Communications, she has garnered accolades and recognition as an award-winning interview coach, serving a diverse clientele across the nation.

Marcie is a published author, having penned the highly acclaimed vegan cookbook titled “Believe it or Not” available worldwide on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Wal-Mart.

Furthermore, Marcie has assumed the esteemed position of President of Kern Dance Alliance, stepping into this role in 2023 following the legacy of Andrea Hansen. Her enduring commitment to the organization is exemplified by her role as a founding board member. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role as one of the co-creators of ADAPTIdance: DANCE + DISABILITY, Kern County’s exclusive adaptive dance program in collaboration with the League of Dreams.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Marcie shares her life with her husband, Demetri, and together, they are parents to two children. Both of their children are engaged in pursuits ranging from classical dance, singing, and piano, to the expressive world of painting.