The 2011-2012 Hiatus

Sweat, blood, tears… lots of tears. Laughing, yelling. Sleepless nights, meal-less days.

I was in a love-hate relationship this year. He was a triple threat— a captivating and charismatic actor, a musician through vocals and instruments, and a dancer who connected with today and deep down roots. He was the reason why Empire in the Air ceased its existence this past year. He was the reason why all my time and energy flew off into a cultural world. He—despite all the ups and downs— has been by far one of my greatest accomplishments in my 20 years of life.

His name was Pilipino Culture Night.

For those of you who don’t know, a PCN is a production which integrates a play with modern and cultural dancing. Akbayan of SJSU blessed my co Jeffrey Monje and I the opportunity to be the PCN 2012 Coordinators. We began planning the show even before we were nominated and all those ideas came to life a year later on stage by 124 other students whom became our family.

Now that this school year is over and Jeff&I officially passed down the PCN reigns to anew, I can finally go back to my baby: Empire in the Air.

PCN, you have done me oh so well and I will forever cherish every second of you and all the new friends you have brought me. I will miss you.

Empire, I’m coming back for you. No more on and off hiatuses. No more saying “I’m too busy.” No more excuses. I’m going to work my way up from ground 0 once again but I know all will be worth it.

- ChiChai@Empire