Variety show displays Asian identity

A hip-hop team, a rock 'n' roll band and a variety of IU student talent were just some of the features of the Asian American Association's annual variety show -- Club Asia.\nThe event, which was held Saturday at the Willkie Auditorium, also included a fashion show. Freshman and model Athea Acosta said the show wasn't for fashion majors but more for entertainment. \nClub Asia showcased amateur modeling talent within the AAA and gave local businesses, including Wigs Unlimited, an opportunity to market their merchandise. The models also showcased clothing from the more trendy PacSun, The Buckle, Cha Cha and Deb. The showcased clothing ranged from funky to trendy to chic to glamorous. The final piece, titled "So Crazy Baby," was appropriate for anyone going to the beach during the upcoming spring break.The fashion portion of the show also included authentic attire from the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Korea and China. \nThe eclectic Club Asia displayed talent within and connected to the AAA. There were several groups presenting and performing outside of the AAA, including the Malaysian Student Association and several non-Asian groups. The performances ranged from all dance music, including IU Essence, IU's hip-hop dance team and singer and sophomore Aaron O'Brien. The show also included the Ballroom Dance Club. Three couples from the club entertained the audience with swing and Latin dance. \nFormer AAA treasurer senior Ben Leang performed with his rock 'n' roll band "Overnight Haven." The band grooved well with a mix of hard rock, mellow rock 'n' roll and a pinch of California surf music. Leang said acts like his rock 'n' roll band display the multiple facets to Asian-American identity. \n"Asian-American identity varies from person to person," Leang said. \nAcosta said the typical participant put about six hours a week into the variety show -- and for her, it was well worth it. Like the show, the large audience was diverse. It was fun to watch, with much eclectic and high-quality entertainment.