The Sampaguita Folkloric DanceTroupe was established in 1990, starting as a group of 4, now it has expanded its membership to more than 30. The dancegroup focus on performing the traditional dances of the Philippines, ranging from the native folkloric dances to the spanish influence.

Its main objective is to preserve the tradition and culture of the Philippines importantly in a different country, like Australia. In this way, we could show the different nationality what the Filipino culture is and how it really looks like.

The dancegroup is a non-profitable organisation, which means dancers do not received any income. The money that is paid for us is used to buy materials for costumes, payment for the costumes made, accessories and of course, our props. Our props include bamboos (kawayan for tinikling), castanets, coconut shells (bao), hats, fans, bench (bangko), hankerchiefs, etc, etc...

Our beautiful costumes are especially made by dressmakers here in Brisbane and most of them are designed by Ella Zapirain. Materials for our costumes are bought here in Australia, but sometimes we get costumes from the Philippines and we just have to alter it. The props are ordered straight from the Philippines but sometimes, we modify it with other equipment which can be easily found or buy here.

The founder of the dancegroup is Mrs Ella Zapirain, she used to be a member of a folkloric dancegroup back in Laguna, Philippines. She didn't start the dancegroup when she arrived in Australia, it took her a couple of years to establish it.

We perform in various events and multi-cultural occasions. We go from place to place around Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Recently, the dancegroup was invited to dance in a State Emergency Services Fundraising in New South Wales. The group stayed overnight (Nov 8-9), although the performance was free of charge but, we had the accommodation, transport and food for free.

Below are the present members of the Sampaguita DanceTroupe, some of our members had gone back home to Philippines or have moved away. You will notice that there is not enough male performer in the dancegroup, it is because there is not much Filipinos want to join in the group. We don't force anyone to join in our group, it should be on their own freewill. If they really want to dance they can just contact any of the members. It will be hard for us and even for the person if he/she was forced to join in a dancegroup, because he/she cannot do his/her best to perform.

PASQ Independence Day Charity Ball - June 1998

Travel Expo - Brisbane Conventiion Centre - April 1998

Gnb & Bb Pilipinas - June 1998

NSW State Emergency Service Fundraising - Nov 8-9 '97

Gng & Bb Pilipins - June 1997

Chinatown New Year Festival - February 1997

St Marist College World Nation Week - 25 October 1997

Bb Pilipinas - June 1996