MCM Santamaria, Professor at the Asian Center, has received the UP Arts Productivity Award and has been named UP Artist II in recognition of his creative and scholarly works on Philippine dance, especially of the Sama traditions of the Southern Philippines. The awarding ceremony took place in 17 December 2013.
Given each year, the UP Arts Productivity Award recognizes exemplary artists who “consistently bring honor to the university through their award-winning creative works in the different arts.” Awardees are selected based on a stringent set of standards, including publications record, presentations, and performances, and standing in the professional community of local and international artists.
Dr. Santamaria has published numerous articles on the Sama Igal dance and kulintangan music ensemble traditions, and has choreographed various dance performances. He choreographed the dance routines in Sintang Dalisay, a Filipino adaptation of William Shakespeares "Romeo and Juliet" which was based on an awit (Philippine metrical romance form) version by G.D. Roke and a translation by National Artist Rolando Tinio. Dr. Santamaria also heads the Bunga Arts Link. Visit Dr. Santamaria’s faculty profile to see his most recent publications.
Dr. Santamaria joins as UP Artist, Dr. Reuben Ramas Cañete, who received the recognition in August 2013.