Baylor Student Associations host Spring Festival, Culture Show

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Baylor University's Japanese Student Association will host the Japanese Spring Festival at 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday March, 27 at the Mayborn Museum Complex. The Indian Subcontinent Student Association (ISSA) will host its annual "Gateway to India" Culture Show at 6:30 p.m., also on Saturday March 27 in Waco Hall.

"The reason I started this event was because it is difficult to experience Japanese culture in Waco for the students who are studying Japanese language," said Yuko Prefume, lecturer of Japanese.

There will be a Taiko drum performance, demonstrations of origami and karate and a traditional tea ceremony. Games and activities for participants will include shodo (Japanese calligraphy), origami and chopstick games, among others. Picture opportunities will also be available for people to dress in traditional Japanese costumes and have a photo made for a small fee.

"One of the major reasons we are having it at Mayborn Museum is we wanted to introduce Japanese culture not only to students, but also to people in Waco community," Prefume said.

Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children. Admission is free for Baylor students and museum members.

"Gateway to India" later the same day will promote cultural awareness and encourage social interaction amongst students, faculty and the residents of the Waco community.

The culture show will feature a variety of cultural dances from the Indian Subcontinent, live music and dramatic presentations. All proceeds will go to Developments in Literacy (DIL). Those in attendance will also learn how they can support the important philanthropic work being done by DIL.

DIL is dedicated to providing quality education to disadvantaged children by establishing schools in underdeveloped regions of Pakistan, with a strong focus on gender equality and community participation.

"Guests contributed almost $500 to DIL last year and we hope to raise more every year," said Lalanica Chandrasekera, ISSA culture show chair.

In addition to collecting donations, door prizes will be awarded throughout the night.

Following the culture show will be "The Taste of India" wrap party. Guest will have the opportunity to meet performers wile enjoying music and free food.

The show is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact 254-710-2371.

by Jessica Puente, student newswriter, (254) 710-6805