Dressed in saris, flamenco skirts and Polynesian garb, groups of performers scurried through the halls of the University Student Union on Saturday, preparing to perform for dozens of students, family and friends at the 46th annual Multicultural Dinner Show.
Hosted by the International Student Association (ISA), the club’s “Global Fusion” themed-dinner showcased performances and cuisine from all over the globe.
As guests dined over food from the international buffet, the event kicked off with performances by Chinese and flamenco dancers as well as entertainment by student groups, like the Cal State Long Beach Salsa Team, Beach Bollywood and Beach Bellies belly dancers.
With the goal of representing the many cultures on campus, the annual Multicultural Dinner Show provides a place where international and domestic students can mingle.
A fashion show featured students who modeled international styles, such as flowing, colorful Moroccan kaftans, tunic-like Indian kurtas and Vietnamese traditional attire.
“This is a cool event. You get to see dances from different types of groups and food from all over the world, ” junior microbiology major and event volunteer Dao Duong said.
This academic year, 1,375 international students studied at CSULB, according to Cal State University Spokesman Erik Fallis.
ISA also raffled off tickets for prizes, such as guest passes to the Museum of Latin American Art and Universal Studios. Proceeds from the raffle went to emergency relief funds for CSULB students from Syria.
“ISA is a unique and vital group that provides a support system for the international students in a way that faculty and staff can’t always do,” ISA Club Adviser Melissa Lyon said.
Lyon also said that international students appreciate the haven they find in the ISA after stepping off a plane into an unknown country.
Duong, who also tutors international students, agreed.
“I think ISA does a great job of helping international students assimilate,” Duong said.