| Festival brings culture to university |
by
Elizabeth Ashford
Staff Writer
|
The Asian Festival,
sponsored by the Asian Student Association, is coming
to Appalachian State University this Friday.
“The Asian Festival is a cultural experience
of various Asian nations. Through dance, vocal and
theatrical performance, we’re bringing a whole
continent to Appalachian State University,”
Juliana S. Wu, ASA member said.
Gayathri Vijayagopalan, ASA president, said the
best part of the celebration for her is the dancing.“Last
year I danced at the Asian Festival, which was hugely
fun.” Vijayagopalan said. “After spending
long hours practicing, it was exhilarating to perform
in front of so many people, and see them enjoy it.”
Vijayagopalan said that there will be dancing at
this year’s festival, as well as many other
events.
The festival will open with an introduction of Asian
culture by different members of the ASA. Different
martial arts demonstrations by the Tae-Kwon-Do,
Tai Chi, and Aikido clubs will follow. The Japanese
and Chinese clubs also perform during the festivities.
“The finale will be a fashion show consisting
of the vibrant dress of Asia. Afterwards, we’ll
have a food sampling, where people can taste flavorful
dishes from different countries,” Vijayagopalan
said.
Vijayagopalan said that last year’s festival
was a huge success with about 350 people in attendance,
including former chancellor Francis T. Borkowski
and his wife, Kay Borkowski.
“I thought it was neat seeing the Asian culture
[at the festival] and seeing the campus celebrating
Asian culture,” K. Anna Chavda, ASA member
and participant in last year’s festival, said.
Those interested in learning more about the Asian
culture should come to ASA meetings Tuesdays at
5:30 p.m. in Sanford Hall Room 307, Vijayagopalan
said.
“Anyone is welcome to come to ASA
meetings, not only if they are of Asian descent,
and also if they’re simply interested in learning
about the culture,” Vijayagopalan said.
The Asian Festival begins at 6:30 p.m. in Plemmons
Student Union Grandfather Mountain Ballroom. The
event is free, but donations can be given at the
door.
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