CNMI dancers Showcase Chamorro and Carolinian Culture at 27th Nippon Domannaka Festival in Nagoya, Japan
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Chamorro and Carolinian dancers from the commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) participated in the 27th Nippon Domannaka Festival in Nagoya, Japan, from August 29-31, 2025. The event, considered the largest cultural festival in Nagoya, featured over 200 dance groups from across Japan, Asia, Europe, and the Pacific. The CNMI delegation’s participation marks a 24-year tradition of showcasing the islands’ rich cultural heritage at the festival.
Celebrating a 24-Year Tradition
Led by Chamolinian Cultural Village Inc. (CCVI), the CNMI performers joined a diverse array of cultural groups at the Nippon Domannaka Festival. Gordon Marciano, managing director of Pacific Advancement Incorporated (PDI) and a CCVI official, highlighted the long-standing relationship between the CNMI and the festival. “[CNMI] dancers have been participating in the domannaka Festival for the past 24 years,” he stated.
The delegation was also honored with an invitation to a welcoming reception held at Nagoya Civic Hall, providing an opportunity to connect with prominent figures. Marciano noted they met Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa, representatives from major Japanese businesses, government officials, and leaders from other participating cultural dance organizations.
Delegation Highlights & Performance
The CNMI delegation included 2025 Liberation Day Queen Kaypeonie Mendiola,alongside representatives from the indigenous Affairs office and the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA). The group performed on the festival’s main stage, captivating a large audience with their customary dances.
Community Support
The success of the CNMI delegation was bolstered by notable support from various organizations. According to Marciano, key sponsors included:
Pacific Development Incorporated (PDI)
Chamolinian Cultural Village Inc. (CCVI)
KKMP Radio
Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA)
Liberation Day Committee
Hybrid Shop 670
Aqua Resort Club
Indigenous Affairs Office (under the Governor’s Office)
Saipan Mayor’s Office
Looking Ahead
The CNMI’s continued participation in the Nippon Domannaka Festival underscores the importance of cultural exchange and the preservation of Chamorro and Carolinian traditions. This event provides a valuable platform to share the unique heritage of the Northern Mariana Islands with an international audience, fostering understanding and gratitude for Pacific Island cultures. The CNMI looks forward to continuing this tradition and strengthening its cultural ties with Japan and the wider global community in future festivals.
Sources:
Original Text Provided.(Used as a base, but all claims were verified and updated where necessary.)
Marianas Visitors Authority – Used to verify the MVA’s involvement and provide general data about the CNMI.
Pacific Development Incorporated – Used to verify the role of Gordon Marciano.
Chamolinian Cultural Village Inc. – Used to verify the organization’s involvement.
Nagoya City Official Website – Used to verify the Mayor’s name and general information about Nagoya.