At the Asian American Ballet Project, we are reimagining what ballet can be—and who it belongs to. As the first and only Asian American professional ballet company, we are dedicated to honoring the myths, legends, and ancestral stories passed down through our communities—and giving them a home on the classical stage.

Over the past three years, our work has resonated deeply with audiences hungry to see themselves reflected onstage. In an art form flooded by European fairy tales, AABP creates space for Asian Americans to see their folklore honored with beauty, excellence, and care.

This season, we devote an entire program to Asian folklore, bringing four beloved tales from Mongolia, the Philippines, China, and Vietnam to life through sweeping choreography, intricate costumes, original scenic design, and live music. Audience favorites return with renewed artistry, while a world premiere by one of our own company dancers—set to an original score by a local composer—expands our growing repertoire of culturally rooted ballets.

These are not museum pieces. They are dynamic, contemporary performances that affirm our stories belong in classical spaces. By backing this campaign, you are investing in representation, artistic innovation, and a future where ballet reflects the full richness of our communities. Your support helps preserve Asian folklore not only in memory, but in movement, as bold, beautiful ballets for today—and for the next generation.

What the Money Goes Toward:

We have successfully fundraised to meet most of our costs. Now we need your help to cover these remaining expenses:

Suho and the White Horse - costumes – $1000

Lon Po Po - sets – $1500

Gabi sa Gubat - additional choreography – $500

Tấm Cám - live musician – $500

Risks and Challenges: 

There is always a risk in presenting live theatre that something could go wrong. Fortunately, we live by the doctrine “the show must go on” and will do whatever it takes to make sure our final vision ends up onstage.

Other Ways to Join In:

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Thank you for your support! Our campaign ends on May 31st at 11:59 pm.

About AABP:

Founded in 2022, the Asian American Ballet Project is the very first Asian American ballet company, ever. Our mission is to present Asian American dancers on stage together in all-Asian American productions. We aim to tell stories from our unique perspectives and transform how audiences see Asian Americans in performance, from unexpected to accepted. With a commitment to both classical and contemporary ballet, AABP commissions works from AAPI choreographers, both local and international. Our professional company of seven AAPI ballet dancers performs across Greater Boston, reaching diverse audiences throughout Massachusetts.

Please note: AABP does NOT currently have 501(c)(3) status. However, all donations support our mission driven work. If you would specifically like to make a tax-deductible donation you can do so via our fiscal sponsor: https://bostondancealliance.app.neoncrm.com/forms/asian-american-ballet-project

Credits:

Music: Shirley Wong

Photos: Lauren Huynh, Nicole Marie Photography, and Olivia Moon Photography

Videos: Kaila Caffey, Lauren Huynh, Elizabeth Mochizuki, and Olivia Moon Photography

Reimagining Ballet: Reviving Asian Folktales

What if Asian folklore took center stage at the ballet?

Team Members