By RUTH CASTILLO
ruth@du2.byu.edu
Living Legends offers a multitude of opportunities for multicultural students.
'Living Legends is pure missionary work,' said Jorge Ramirez, a former member of the multicultural dance group.
Several of the group's former members said Living Legends allowed them to feel a missionary spirit, build stronger testimonies of the gospel and develop a greater appreciation for all cultures.
Janielle Christensen said Living Legends has proven to be an effective missionary tool for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
'The group softens the hearts of the audience by radiating the light of Christ in their performances,' she said.
Christensen said that while on tour, the group holds firesides open to the public. She said she believes it gives the performers a chance to share their religious beliefs and cultural diversity.
Jolena Slim, a member of the group during the European tour, recalls the renewed faith of a single Croatian mother of three.
'After our visit, she was determined to live the gospel....She had more faith the church would grow in her country,' Slim said.
'Participating in the group also helped me to appreciate the blessings I receive as a member of the Church,' Slim said.
She said she believes members of the group develop a greater appreciation for others because they see how hard church members work to fortify the church in their own country.
Christensen said the group has been performing for 27 years. Each spring they tour different areas of the world.
'The group will be touring the Netherlands next spring,' Christensen said.
Edward L. Blaser, director of Performing Arts Management, said the group has toured countries such as Italy, Croatia, Germany, Austria and many South American countries.
Christensen encourages all students who are of Native American, Polynesian, or Latin American descent to audition.
Those auditioning will be required to perform a traditional dance or musical number from their respective ethnic background.
Auditions will be Aug. 27 and 28 in the Knight Magnum Building. For more information contact Performing Arts Management at 378-3576.