Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Nai-Ni Chen

Join the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company and Jersey City Theater Center for a special celebration honoring the life, artistry, and enduring legacy of visionary choreographer Nai-Ni Chen (1959–2021). This commemorative event features live performances of her iconic works Incense, Shadow Force, and Raindrops, a screening of the PBS documentary Unity: Choreographer Nai-Ni Chen Remembered, and heartfelt remembrances from dancers, collaborators, and friends. The afternoon will also celebrate her deep connections to Jersey City, her groundbreaking contributions to Asian American contemporary dance, and her commitment to inclusive arts education.

The celebration will pay special tribute to Nai-Ni’s connections with Jersey City, including her work with New Jersey City University, Jersey City Theater Center and her commitment to bringing dance to students with disabilities at the A. Harry Moore School. These relationships exemplified her belief that dance is a universal language capable of connecting people across cultures, generations, and abilities.

“The first time I saw Nai-Ni working with her dancers in rehearsal at NJCU, I became so emotional that tears simply fell from my eyes,” said Olga Levina, Exec Director of JCTC. “I couldn’t explain why, but I knew I was witnessing a great artist at work, creating something truly special.”

If you require ADA accommodations, please email info@jctcenter.org or call 201-795-5386