Throughout the month of May, we'll be honoring the rich artistic traditions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander cultures through music, dance, and more!
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 · 7:30 PM · 4544 N Lincoln Ave
Tzu-Tsen Wu: World Music Wednesday concert Ruan to the World Album Release
FREE! A native of Taiwan, Tzu-Tsen Wu is a Chicago based multi-instrumentalist specializing in Zhong Ruan. This concert is the premiere event for the release of the album Ruan to the World. This album is being granted by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events' Individual Artist Program as a celebration of humanity through music. It is the first album release in Chicago that features Taiwanese and Chinese music elements synchronized with various world instruments, world-class musicians, and diverse cultural influences. The album includes contributions from renowned artists such as Fareed Haque (classical & jazz guitarist and co-producer), Rodrigo Bussad (Brazilian composer and panist), Brent Roman and Yini Sun (Chinese music), Suwan Choi (traditional Korean performing artist), Chethan (Indian flute), Wanees Zarour (oud and Middle Eastern percussion), and more.
Get Tickets ▸Saturday, May 10 · 12:30 PM · 4544 N Lincoln Ave
Bookworms: Music and Storytelling for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Amanda Payne
FREE! Amanda Payne will share music and read the book “Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma” by Joanna Ho. This picture book biography spotlights a performance on the U.S. border with Mexico by the French-born, Chinese-American cellist. It focuses on his career, immigration, and using music to build bridges between cultures.
REGISTER ▸Saturday, May 17 · 11:30 AM · 4545 N Lincoln Ave
‘Ukulele-Power Strums Method with Lanialoha Lee!
A workout of high velocity powered strum calisthenics and grooves. It’s our Culture. It’s Paniolo Country! Created by Carole Lanialoha Lee, this ‘ukulele workshop focused on strums of the South Pacific empowers your playing with a solid foundation of basic techniques, hands-on exercises, and varied strumming styles. The repertoire is filled with Songs of the Hawaiian Cowboys enriching stories of traditional music.
REGISTER ▸Saturday, May 17 · 1:30 PM · 4545 N. Lincoln Ave.
Hakikino! Hula Workout! with Kumu Hula, Lanialoha Lee and 'Alaka'i, Napuahinano Sumberg
Experience the joy and energy of Hawaiian culture with Hakikino! Hula Workout!, a dynamic 60-minute workshop that blends traditional hula movements with a fun, full-body workout. This session is designed to celebrate the beauty of hula while improving your strength, flexibility, and endurance. Participants will learn basic hula steps, hand gestures, and choreography inspired by Hawaiian traditions, all set to vibrant Polynesian music. The workshop is suitable for all fitness levels.
REGISTER ▸Saturday, May 24 · 1:00 PM · 4545 N. Lincoln Ave.
Ribbon Dance with Angela Tam
This workshop offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the beauty and cultural significance of traditional Chinese ribbon dancing. Participants will learn the graceful movements and techniques of this centuries-old art form, which combines flowing ribbons with expressive dance to tell stories, celebrate traditions, and honor cultural heritage. The workshop is open to all skill levels, making it a perfect activity for families, children, and individuals looking to connect with AAPI culture through movement and creativity.
REGISTER ▸Saturday, May 31 · 1:00 PM · 4545 N. Lincoln Ave.
Bollywood and South Asian Dance with Alka Nayyar and Anjali Julka
Move to catchy, rhythmic Bollywood and South Asian folk music with our dance instructors Anjali Julka and Alka Nayyar, who teach "Bollywood, Bhangra, and More!" at Old Town School! Learn authentic movements, gestures, and expressions, and how regional folk- and classical dance forms influence Bollywood choreography.
REGISTER ▸
