Although the sun wasn’t in sight, the WABA Korea Expo held on Pier 62 was full of warmth that could be felt radiating from blocks away. Perhaps all it takes is hot food being served with care from beneath tents protecting pop up kitchens from the rain, and excited smiles from children watching the vividly-dressed performers to make people forget about a little gray weather.
On stage, dancers spun while drummers drummed, and the crowd was suddenly lost in waves of color and sound. Transfixed, I was taken by the stark contrast between the red and magenta and aqua fabrics against the cloudy-white Seattle day. It was almost as if a painter in the sky knew the exact backdrop to best illustrate the movement of the delicate skirts and ribbons, and set to work making it so.
While discs were tossed and fans were waved, much of the crowd sought the expertise of the many vendors selling their wares. From beautiful fabrics to interesting trinkets and top of the line skin care, there seemed to be something for everyone looking to hold on to a memory of the day.
As the performers led up to their big finale, I remember being in such awe at the sheer talent and joy that was emitting from each of them. Here they were, mostly children and teenagers, putting their very best out into the world for all to see. I left feeling inspired by the thought that maybe, just by being in the presence of such conviction to commit to an art form as beautiful as their performances, I could follow in their footsteps.
