- Performances, food are highlights at World Banquet
Feb. 17, 2011 - Cultural traditions from around the globe came together at Valparaiso University's World Banquet 2011: Origins of the Earth on Feb. 12.
On a day that included a basketball game and a number of other activities, plenty of people turned out to make this year’s World Banquet a memorable one.
Nearly 400 people enjoyed an array of international food from Dining Services and performances of global dance and music.
“It turned out to be really well-attended on a night when there were a lot of things happening,” said David Hamilton, Coordinator of International Student Services for the Office of International Programs.
It was the 31st year for the World Banquet event, which is the highlight of international student events for the year, said Holly Singh, Director of International Students and Scholars.
The event was organized by VISA, the Valparaiso International Student Association. Among the many performance highlights were traditional dances from Iraq and South Africa; an African dance medley; French and Macedonian dances; an Indian Bollywood Movie Dance; a Saudi Arabian song, an Indian prayer song and a Chinese folk song; a ballroom dance team medley; and a Parade of Nations by country.
Entrees included Fig Thai Tofu Salad, South African Lamb Curry, Far East Ribs, and Navraten Korma.
VISA and the Office of International Programs start working on planning the event as soon as the fall semester starts.
Singh said this event is one that international students look forward to all year.
“Through this event they get to share their culture with the campus in general and friends in particular. I would consider this year's Banquet to be one of the best -- the VISA Board needs to be commended for that, as they put in a lot of time and energy for the success of this event,” Singh said.
VISA President Zanele Kutamo, who is from South Africa, said it was a special event for international students – and all students. The Indian skit, the Chinese performance, and the African dance were among the most entertaining performances of the day, she said.
Of the African dance, she said, “It was wild, calm and exciting, all at the same time.”
