Welcome to the Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa – Celebrating Culture, Connecting Community
Our Mission and Vision
Founded in 1984, the Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization whose mission is to promote Filipino culture through folk dance, music, and song, and to pass on our heritage, culture, and traditions to Filipino-Canadian children in the Ottawa area.
Our vision is to be a beacon of Filipino culture in Canada, enriching lives and bridging generations through the beauty of Philippine dance and music.
Our Story
Every great journey begins with a story. Ours is no different. Danny Arriola founded the Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa on January 7, 1984, to engage children and youth in the community and to pass on a part of Filipino heritage to Filipino-Canadian youth. From a humble beginning, the troupe has grown into the foremost Filipino folk dance group in the National Capital Region. Over the years, PDTO has showcased Filipino arts and heritage at international festivals, multicultural events, and private functions in Ottawa and beyond, including performances in Drummondville, Washington, Philadelphia, and Rochester.
Learn more about our story and how we came to be cultural ambassadors for Filipino culture.
Benefits of Joining the PDTO
- Cultural Heritage: Deepen your understanding of Filipino heritage through traditional dances, music, and customs.
- Community: Stay connected with the Filipino-Canadian community, fostering cultural pride and belonging.
- Friendship and Teamwork: Build lasting friendships with peers who share a passion for culture and the arts.
- Performance Opportunities: Perform in front of prestigious audiences, from Ambassadors to Canadian Parliament members.
- Skill Development: Learn various Filipino performance arts, including singing, dancing, and traditional instruments.
- Cultural Ambassador: Represent Filipino traditions and values in Canada.
- Confidence Building: Build self-confidence and stage presence through local and international performances.
- Inclusive Environment: Join a welcoming and inclusive community that values diversity, equity, and each individual’s talents.
Join Us! Become a part of our community. Whether you are looking to reconnect with your heritage, learn traditional Filipino arts, or perform on stage, the Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa is open to new youth members of all ages and backgrounds.
Book a Performance
Bring the vibrancy of Filipino culture to your next event! Contact us to book the Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa for a unique and unforgettable performance.
Check out @pdto1984‘s latest posts on Instagram!
land acknowledgement
The Philippine Dance Troupe’s rehearsal spaces and performance venues are located on the traditional unceded, unsurrendered territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin People. The Algonquin People have inhabited and cared for these lands long before today. We take this time to show our gratitude and respect to them, and to the land for all that it provides us.
Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa (PDTO) 