Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company

In celebration of Asian American Heritage Month, the acclaimed Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company will present a captivating, cross-cultural program at The CitiGroup Theatre on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 7:30pm and Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 3pm. Under the guidance of Artistic Director Greta Campo, the company continues its mission of bridging Asian elegance with American dynamism. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased here. There will be a VIP reception following the show on May 16 for a meet and greet with the dancers, choreographer and designers, with refreshments.

The performances will feature an extraordinary cast of artists: Sarah Botero, Yuchin “Kiki” Tseng, Madeleine Lee, Madelyn Sarver, Lorenzo Guerrini, Caleb Baker, Kathryn Taylor, Esteban Santamaria, Rio Kikuchi, and Candace Jarvis.

The company’s unique artistic vision has long resonated with critics and audiences alike. As noted by The New York Times, the company “…stood out for their remarkably smooth blend of new and old, as well as for their confident, intensely personal approach to nature.”

Program Highlights

Flowing Stream under the Moonlight (Ying Shi)
A Chinese Dai Minority Folk Dance, parenting the scene of of two young women by a moonlit riverside.

Positioning
Nai-Ni Chen’s duet responding to the crisis of identities and power, seeking equality, and justice.

Way of Fire (Nai-Ni Chen)
Explores the ancient element of fire within the five elements, representing the warrior energy within us.

Reflection of A Ripple (Premiere by Peter Chu)

Exploring movement lineage past and future, the dance balances softness and grace with dynamic bursts of energy.