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One of the highlights of the Philippine Independence Day celebration in Vienna this year was the performance of the Rigodon de Honor. This graceful, time-honored dance has become a staple of the Filipino community’s annual ball in Austria. Spearheaded by organizers Carmen Pacaigue and Dorcy Aigner, the formation of this year’s Rigodon troupe was anything but simple.
According to Pacaigue and Aigner, while many expressed interest in joining, time constraints posed a major challenge. Weekly practices began in March 2025, held mostly on weekends. To support the group, I was asked if I could help find practice venues. I offered two parish halls—Leopoldau and Töllergasse—depending on their availability. I’m grateful to the administration of both parishes for allowing us to hold regular three-hour sessions over nearly three months.
The early practices were rough. Dancers came and went, often unable to attend due to their demanding work schedules. Choreographer Dorcy Aigner faced the challenge head-on, staying patient even when the group was incomplete. It wasn’t until the final rehearsal, just hours before the June 7 event, that the full group of dancers was finally present together. That moment, Aigner said, was especially rewarding.
I had the chance to visit several rehearsals and witnessed firsthand the strong camaraderie among the dancers. They supported each other, shared snacks and meals during breaks, and brought a sense of joy to the exhausting repetition of steps.
The Rigodon de Honor remains a proud tradition in the Filipino community in Vienna—a symbol of unity, elegance, and cultural heritage. This year’s performance was a testament to the dancers’ dedication and Aigner’s unwavering guidance. Here’s to more young Filipinos joining and carrying on this beautiful tradition in the years to come.
- Hector Pascua/Pictures: Blitz Macatangay
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