In January 10, 1994, Mr. Joel Roque Arbolario along with two former core members of the Theater Arts Society (TEARS) of West Negros College namely: Mrs. Nurijin Quilantang-Chua and Arlyn Sumergido-Aledron agreed to give a new leash in life of defining the Hiligaynon Theatre expression.

The process in definition, was later with members as well as applicants of Kalingaw- Ang Teatro Hiligaynon (formerly Kalingaw Repertory) would be to transform the local theater expression into "EDUCATION AND TRAINING CURRICULUM AND THEATER PRODUCTIONS".

Kalingaw has its first taste in theatricality through Mr. Joel R. Arbolario's adoption of Alberto Florentino's reality play, "THE DANCERS" which he entitled "ANG MGA BAYLARINA". It was stated before an enthusiastic audience on Febuary 10 and 12, 1994 at West Negros College.

Another big boost for the group's equilibrium for over a decade was the decision of the administration ably led by Madam Suzette Arbolario-Agustin to provide scholarship grants of which the members and applicants enjoyed since 1995, along with other grantees in the campus, the testament of the assiduous support being provided by the school to the promotion and development of Philippine Culture and Arts.

Kalingaw was blessed to have spearheaded the nativity of the Hiligaynon Theater Expression through its numerous play production directed and scripted by its founding father, Joel Roque Arbolario in a span of a decade.

Kalingaw then became a venue for theoretical systematization and work translation through its organizational and aesthetical programs.

When Joel Roque Arbolario passed away in 2003, Mr. Ismael "Maeng" Java took over the helm of managing the group.