Beyond Words: Japan’s Culture Through Language and Performance – A Culmination Activity

In an increasingly globalized world, cultural competence has become a cornerstone of professional and academic success. On May 08, 2025, the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Southern Leyte State University brought this ideal to life through Beyond Words: Japan’s Culture Through Language and Performance, a culminating event at the SLSU Mini Theater. Designed to merge language acquisition with cultural immersion, the variety show offered a dynamic platform for students to showcase their mastery of Nihongo and their appreciation of Japanese tradition through performance arts.

The event, spearheaded by BSHM and BSTM second-year students under the guidance of their instructors in Foreign Language 2 Ms. Zeralyn L. Togonon and MICE Ms. Laarni Biez M. Pasus (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), was more than an academic requirement, it was a manifestation of learning applied in context. Students performed one-act plays, radio dramas, storytelling, roleplaying, singing, and traditional dances while adorned in cultural attire and cosplay. These performances served not only as a creative outlet but also as a demonstration of their linguistic skills and cultural insights acquired throughout the semester.

For BSTM 2A students in particular, the event doubled as a practicum in event planning, logistics, technical, and coordination, equipping them with practical skills essential to the tourism and hospitality industry.

The event, was more than a variety show, it was an integrative educational experience that empowered students to become culturally aware, communicatively adept, and professionally prepared. By connecting language learning with real-world application, the event successfully underscored the university’s commitment to holistic education and global citizenship.