The Meaning of Hong-Lac
Hong-Lac has a dual meaning in the Vietnamese language. First, it is the name
by which many Vietnamese refer to their ancestor, the first Vietnamese people. It
comprises of the words "Hong" which refers to Vietnam's first legendary dynasty
of Hong Bang, and "Lac" which was the name of one of the three kings of that
dynasty. Secondly, "Hong Lac" is also the name of a species of bird that is native
to Vietnam.
Objectives of the Organization
The objectives of Hong Lac Ensemble are threefold: to preserve Vietnamese cultural
arts; to promote a better understanding of, and appreciation for Vietnamese cultural;
to help young Vietnamese Canadians learn about their cultural heritage while adapting
to Canadian society.
In essence, Hong Lac is a conglomeration of volunteers who are dedicated towards
the preservation and promotion of Vietnamese culture and heritage. Its membership
includes professionals, who either graduated from dance and music institutions in
Vietnam or had some training in these areas. It also includes a great number of
high school and university students who live in different parts of Greater
Metropolitan Toronto. Together these volunteers have dedicated their time and
efforts in making Hong Lac a success.
Since 1982, Hong Lac has performed for charity groups, community fundraising
events and various other organizations throughout North Amerca. In 1988, Hong Lac
raised more than $13,000 in a performce to help the "Moutain Fund", a private
citizen's group sponsoring Vietnamese refugees. In Canada, Hong Lac has performed
in Metropolian Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Edmonton. We have
also had the opportunity to visit and perform at numerous citites in the U.S..
These include Washington D.C., Minnesota and various citites in California. Some
of the more memorable performances include: World Music (1990), First Night
Toronto (1992), Hong Kong Festival (1992), "Vo-Dinh and Dem Tram-Huong" in
Montreal (1992), Caravan (1992), and the Vietnamese New Year celebration at
Massey Hall (1993). In July 1993, Hong Lac also participated in the Fanfare
International Parade and was awarded the prize for best float. Furthermore,
Hong Lac represented Canada in the Festival Mondial De Folklore Drummondville
in July and August of 1994. Viet Nam Melodies of Hope (1997).
Organizational Background
The Hong Lac Vietnamese Music & Dance Ensemble (of Canada), was incorporated in
July 1992 as a non-profit organization. It was formed originally in 1982 by
Dr. LeBa Tonnu and her husband, Mr. Chau Vo, whose intentions were to preserve
and promote Vietnamese traditional music. With the rapid increase of the
Vietnamese population in Canada, came a growing interest in traditional cultural
performances. This made it possible for Hong Lac to expand in terms of membership,
compositions and appearances across North America.
|
Home |
Artistic Medias |
Poem-CD |