(Kyoto University of Foreign Studies) Embody the Culture of Passion. Kyoto Gaidai to Host the 1st National High School Spanish-Speaking Cultural Performance Competition!

Kyoto University of Foreign Studies (President: Hisao Kita, Location: Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City) will host the 1st National High School Spanish-Speaking Cultural Performance Competition for high school students across Japan. Recently, the "taco boom" and increasing attention to Latin American music and art have been rapidly growing in popularity in Japan. This competition is a new and unprecedented format that allows high school students to embody their talents (such as singing, dancing, art, traditional crafts, cooking recipes) in Spanish, showcasing their skills and creativity, all centered around the rich and diverse cultures of the increasingly familiar "Spanish-speaking world." ## Background of the Event Currently, there are over 20 countries worldwide where Spanish is an official or semi-official language, and their cultures are full of diversity. From food culture like "tacos" to Latin music trending on social media, and unique artistic expressions, these regions are filled with "admiration" and "excitement" for young people. This competition is not merely a contest of language proficiency; it aims to foster the ability to express oneself authentically by combining "cultural understanding" with "individual strengths." ## Features of the Competition and Performance Examples The biggest feature of this competition is the freedom of expression. If the performance can be done individually, applications are possible for the following categories: - Showcase individuality and expressive power through dancing, singing, or playing musical instruments to music and rhythm. - Express stories, poetry readings, solo plays, skits, impersonations, magic shows, etc., in Spanish. - Explain and demonstrate self-produced works (illustrations, manga, etc.) or specialties (origami, crafts, sports techniques, cooking recipes like tacos, etc.) in Spanish. -